The Mariam Seddiq Luxury Showcase took place at the Mortlock Chamber at the State Library of South Australia. The showcase was presented by Finesse Models Australia & THE MODELS. 2026 marks 12 years of the Mariam Seddiq fashion label.
I was there as an accredited media photographer and photographed guests prior to the runway showcase, models wearing jewellery by DDS Diamonds and the garments on the runway.
Runway
As always, I am sharing images of some of the looks that resonated with me the most. It could be the structure of the garment, the fabric, the embellishments, and other details, and it could also be how the garment photographed – how it flowed and moved on the runway and draped the model.
The colour palette was predominantly black and white, with statement headpieces, sweeping embellishments, flowing jackets, structured dresses, leather boots and gloves, embroidery and statement jewellery. I’ll let you see the rest for yourself through the photographs. The DDS Diamonds presentation and guest photographs are further down this feature.
The variety and diversity of models on the runway was wonderful. Mariam’s garments are, clearly, meant for all shapes and sizes, no matter where you come from. The fact that there was no overt claim of diversity but instead an actual display, shows that Mariam’s fundamental ethos is inclusivity. Not at all surprising coming from the daughter of Afghan parents.
Born and brought up in Sydney, Mariam’s journey must have been nothing short of an adventure. The designer has also studied in Florence. I believe Mariam has access to something that not many fashion designers in Australia do. Cultural depth and a rich weave of colourful texture. I feel that she has the wherewithal to bring together a clean, contemporary silhouette, similar to what I saw on the runway in Adelaide and the colours of the Asian Continent. Australian couture needs more colour IMO. From a market perspective, I understand the requirement for what sells – monochrome – in which Mariam’s label is already established. I would love to see more of an amalgamation of traditional Afghan art, colours and textile into that which already sells.
These are my personal opinions and conclusions of course – I do like more colour and I can also drool over the bold architectural monochrome pieces in Mariam’s work. How incredible is the NADIA dress on her website!
Mariam is an artist – you can see and purchase some of her paintings here.
The runway consisted of about 30 looks, a handful have already been showcased as part of her ECHOES showcase in Sydney in May 2026.
DDS Diamonds
There were 10 additional looks to showcase the work of Diamond Design Studios.
Imagine you buy a ticket to a runway showcase. You’re sitting in your seat and the emcee asks everyone to look in their gift bags for this one item. If you have that one item, you’re going to get something. You find that item and suddenly, you’re taking home a $3000 diamond. It was definitely a highlight of the evening to see everyone furiously digging through their gift bags and excited whoop from the one that took the diamond home.
Guests
The who’s who from politics, fashion, television and the influencer world was there for the Mariam Seddiq Luxury Showcase. I tend to focus on personal style and jewellery and bags and shows that stand out to my eye. I might not have photographed the who’s who but I did capture some interesting style.
Thank you for having me over Bec, Letitia & Brigette!
How did they know that I needed those exact Davroe hair products that were in the gift bag?
On Instagram
Mariam Seddiq | Finesse Models Australia | THE MODELS | Adelaide Fashion Week
You can also view some of my street style photographs from the Industry Breakfast event at Adelaide Fashion Week 2026.
Looking to work with me?
I’m an Adelaide-based photographer and independent publisher, covering fashion, runway shows, art exhibitions and cultural events. I work with brands, designers, galleries, event organisers and publications to document events and create photography-led editorial features.
For photography commissions, event coverage, editorial collaborations and partnership enquiries, please email [email protected] or call 0429048917
