Gemma Ward has made her triumphant return to Australian runways last night, for the first time in over 6 years.
Looking fresh-faced and glowing, the 27-year-old walked her first show since retiring briefly from the fashion industry in 2008, after losing close friend Heath Ledger to an overdose. Once one of the most powerful models in fashion, commanding $25,000US per show, Ward is counted as being part of the ‘Babydoll’ era of supermodels and was sorely missed from runways both in Australia and internationally.
The model marched for Australian brand, Ellery, under the helm of Kym Ellery. Ward opened the show and led the finale.
“It’s always exciting to see an Australian supermodel return to the runway and having Gemma comeback to Australian Fashion week on its 20th anniversary was very fitting,” The Weekly’s style director Mattie Cronan said.
Cronan adds it was also great to see popular 90s model Emma Balfour close the show.
“The show was very much reflective of Kym Ellery’s signature style with dramatically emphasised silhouettes and exquisite fabrics,” said Mattie. “It was a very epic start to fashion week and hopefully we see inspiring shows all week.”
The collection was presented in Sydney’s Carriageworks and kicks off a week long event packed with exciting Australian designers.
Gemma is pictured here opening the show.
Making an encore, Gemma led the finale parade of all the looks before the closing of the show.
She then attended the afterparty, looking chic in a brocade coat over her runway dress.
At only 27, Gemma looks like she hasn’t aged a day after her sudden retirement from modeling in 2008.
Gemma is seen here in Ellery’s iconic bell sleeves.
She paired the look with bold, black velvet clogs.
During her break from modeling, Ward gave birth to her first child, Naia.
Easily one of the most recognisable faces in fashion, Ward is one of Australia’s finest exports.
Ward also attended and sat front row at the TOME show today.
