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Sydney crew unite!
In a world where it’s never been tougher for retail, Afends has somehow managed to swerve, manoeuvre and duck its way around the challenges of the industry to become one of Australia’s favourite coastal-flavoured streetwear brands. But it ain’t by dumb luck. The Byron brand’s designs have always tapped into the ‘now’ of culture in a way that feels forward-facing without leaving you at risk of hearing someone whisper, ‘WTF is that fit?’
But you know this. You love Afends, and so do we. And last night’s 20-year party was all the more reason why we can’t get enough…
Taking over Haven Gallery in Byron Bay, the Afends crew brought together a few hundred of their nearest and dearest to celebrate two decades of doing things their own way. The night kicked off with an immersive gallery experience, complete with projections, plenty of familiar faces and the launch of 20 Years of Afends, a new book documenting the people, places and moments that have shaped the brand.
From there, the party shifted gears, with DJs, dancing and plenty of good times as the celebrations rolled into the night, with Mr Consistent, Fizz, Stone & Wood and El Arquelero Tequila keeping the drinks flowing.
It’s pretty wild to think that Afends started back in 2006 with two mates, Jono Salfield and Declan Wise, screen-printing merch for punk and hardcore bands in Byron Bay. Twenty years later, the brand has become an internationally recognised label without losing the rebellious streak that made people fall in love with it in the first place.
Twenty years is a bloody long time to stay relevant, especially when you’re doing it on your own terms. Here’s to another 20 years of Afends keeping us on our toes.
Check out the full gallery above!
