Ex-dancing star Heilwig Pfanzelter impresses as a model at 71!
Hetzendorf fashion school celebrates with the final show “ANTIQUE GARDEN”: creative designs, including models and prominent guests on the 17th/18th. June 2025.

Ex-dancing star Heilwig Pfanzelter impresses as a model at 71!
On June 19, 2025, the Hetzendorf Fashion School's final show was celebrated with an impressive array of talents in the castle park. Under the creative motto “ANTIQUE GARDEN” 257 looks from young designers were presented. The event, which was organized by students and teachers, shows once again that the Hetzendorf Fashion School is a real hotspot for aspiring fashion designers.
Particularly in the spotlight was 71-year-old Heilwig Pfanzelter, former “Dancing Star” presenter, who surprised the audience as a model. Her presentation was met with great applause from prominent visitors such as Gerry Keszler and actress Lilian Klebow. The creativity and style of the young designers were also very well received by artist FJ Baur, who praised the energy of the show, while Klebow commented on the diversity and creativity of the fashion on display.
A celebration of diversity
The show sent a strong message for inclusion and sustainability. Visitors were also able to admire a model in a wheelchair, who impressively conveyed the message of diversity and craftsmanship. This year, participants aged between 14 and 18 presented various specializations, including fashion design, model millinery and knitting design.
The annual finale took place over two days, starting with the pre-show on June 17th and two further performances on June 18th. A total of 250 models were shown, including 27 diploma collections, which showed the audience the best creations of the fashion students.
Extensive planning and high standards
From the organization to the presentation, everything was brought to life by students and teachers from the Hetzendorf Fashion School. Ticket prices varied from 10 to 30 euros and tickets were available from May 5, 2025, both online and at the school administration, where only cash payment was accepted. The contingent was limited, especially for the press and the VIP show, which made the demand even greater.
How the City of Vienna contributes to supporting young designers became clear through the presentation of recognition scholarships and awards from the Association of Supporters. It is obvious that the Hetzendorf Fashion School not only sets trends, but also offers talented young people a platform to realize their creative visions.
For a deeper look at the event, check out coverage from Today, which captures the highlights of the show, and the detailed planning Hum Vienna.