Stylist Alicia Marshall agrees more male players are taking pride in their appearance, if for no other reason than to reflect the effort put in by their partners. “The wrong outfit can make or break your image on social media, limiting your dating or work prospects,” she says.
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But the number who love fashion are still in the minority, in her view.
Rose says the Brownlow can open doors and garner invitations to events like the Melbourne Cup or Australian Open.
Marshall says there is more scope than ever for the male players to express their individual style and flair, while respecting the strict black-tie dress code.
“We are starting to see more men in Melbourne take greater fashion risks, dressing more in line with people abroad,” she says. “Celebrities have opened the door for men to explore colour, shapes and fabrics that were previously only used in female collections.”
Fashion and sport have been forging closer ties globally. In the US, “tunnel style” – the outfits basketballers and footballers wear to games – have a huge following, and can lead to ambassador deals with major brands. And fashion conglomerate LVMH, owner of Louis Vuitton and Dior, was a major sponsor of the Paris Olympics.
Huynh hopes players will become less of “a prop on the red carpet” and express their personal style more out of uniform.
“It’s something which is really embraced [overseas]. It would be great to see that culture as part of the AFL.”
The 2024 Brownlow Medal is on Monday, September 23. Follow our live blog on our website, or via The Age app.
