The Australian Idol finale is upon us and while we’re already holding our breath to find out which finalist will be crowned the winner, fans have been also been very divided over something else on the stage this season.
While Harlan, Kalani and Kesha have battled it out along with the rest of the live show contestants, fans couldn’t help comment on the wardrobe choices this season.
In particular, the “retro” fashion that some have deemed right “out of 1947”.
While it’s unclear how much sway the contestants get over their on-stage style, the show does have it’s own wardrobe department and influences what is worn.
Either way, when it comes to style and music, stars have always needed to stand out.
So, while not everyone is a fan of the outfit selection this year, at least it has people talking!
Fans are not liking the 2026 Australian Idol outfits
While Australian Idol fans are quite encouraging to the talent throughout the season, there is often the odd song or outfit that sends people spiralling.
This year, it’s the style of finalists Harlan and Kalani, specifically.
“Really they have to drop the 1947 vibes for the boys,” one user commented online in the lead up to the final.
“Agree [Kalani’s] outfits are awful,” another fan agreed.
“The guy looks like he should be riding a unicycle with a big horn,” said another.
However, there has been some voice of reason to cut through the noise, as some fans have pointed out how important it is for a music artists to maintain a unique personal style.
We would like examples, but can you think of any artists who don’t have their own style?
Sabrina Carpenter, Bowie, Bieber… the list goes on, and a fan pointed this out online.
“Has anybody ever considered if Kalani actually likes what he is wearing?” one fan wrote, disagreeing with the negative comments. “Whilst it may not be to your liking, he may like it and therefore you are all being very rude.”
Under the control of Channel 7’s wardrobe department or not, having a style that stands out and gets people talking is key, and in the boys’ case, isn’t always a bad thing.
Can more than one finalist win big in Australian Idol?
Despite their being some grumblings over outfits, fans have embraced all three finalists with open arms this year.
As Kalani, Harlan, and Kesha fight for the top spot – as well as a $100,000 cash prize and a recording package – fans are also hoping that history will repeat itself this year, allowing all three to be successful, although only one can take home the crown.
Reminiscing on the success of Australian Idol alumni and runners up Jessica Mauboy, Shannon Noll, Anthony Callea, fans are petitioning for more Australian music artists to get the recognition they deserve.
However, the question remains: do all of these finalists have what it takes to go all the way?
“It would be an injustice not to give all 3 of them record contracts and proper support,” one fan wrote on Facebook. “We need this talent from Australia. Each one of them hit a chord with Aussie fans and there is a place for all of them.”
“Nothing worse than seeing a great artist lost to obscurity and not heard from again after a show like this. They are all very talented in their own right.”
Other fans immediately responded in agreement, with hopes very much high this year about all the finalists future success.
“Agree. They all deserve contracts. I believe they will be offered them as well,” another fan wrote in response. “Remember everyone both Jessica Mauboy and Anthony Callea came second in Idol and look how successful they have both been. Even our Ricki-Lee and Rob Mills have done really well after Idol.”
“So I believe these 3 will be the same if they continue to have the determination and drive to succeed in the Music Industry.”
How to watch Australian Idol 2026?
Australian Idol will air on Channel 7 and be available for catchup on 7Plus.
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