Fashion Design Workshop: NGV Gala Gown

This two-day fashion design workshop for high school students at LCI Melbourne in Collingwood invites participants to take on the creative challenge of designing a bold, NGV Gala–inspired outfit based on the 2026 theme, Future Past. Working in teams, students will explore the fusion of historical silhouettes and futuristic aesthetics as they transform ideas into striking runway concepts.

Through guided sketching, draping, experimentation and garment construction, participants will build hands-on design skills, grow their creative confidence and learn how imaginative concepts are developed from the first idea through to a finished fashion statement.

By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained:

• Concept Development Skills
  How to translate abstract ideas and the Future Past theme into a cohesive design direction.
• Team-Based Creative Collaboration
  Working in small groups to brainstorm, plan, divide roles, and problem-solve together.
• Practical Fashion-Making Techniques
  Draping, shaping, experimenting with materials, and building garment forms suited for expressive, high-impact aesthetics.
• Styling & Presentation Skills
  Exploring how accessories, hair, makeup, and movement enhance a finished look for the catwalk.
• Runway Performance Experience
  Presenting their final design in a mini catwalk showcase, including a short creative pitch.

Who’s Leading the Session:

Darran Arabin-Gander is a highly experienced fashion industry professional and educator with over 20 years working across leading British and Australian fashion houses, universities and now the Head of Fashion and LCI Melbourne.

Specialising in pattern cutting, drape techniques, and couture construction, Darran brings a unique blend of technical expertise and creative innovation to his practice.

He has worked with renowned international labels including Dion Lee, Ralph & Russo, Emilio Pucci, Loewe, and Christian Lacroix, and has contributed to iconic fashion moments - including the legendary white dress worn by Kylie Minogue in the, Can’t Get You Out of My Head, video.