What we loved (and what we’d actually wear) from this year’s M/FW runways
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Melissa Cowan
words by daisy henry
“Although my flat-pack Ikea wardrobe could never, that layered, strapless tartan gown and bolero are hanging in my fantasy wardrobe.”
Last week marked my second official Melbourne Fashion Week (M/FW) as FJ’s Assistant Editor. As a media partner again this year, the entire team was seated at every runway (that was nine shows between us!) taking mental notes on designers’ collections, snapping pictures and writing reviews.
Aside from being a firm reminder that Australia is absolutely bursting at the seams with emerging talent, fashion week has solidified in my mind that you can enjoy a runway, even if the fashion doesn’t align with your personal taste. Whether it’s a multi-layered tartan gown, a gigantic loofah-inspired dress or a pair of Nokia platforms, the runways can be a chance to escape and soak up the art for what it is: art.
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However, that’s not to say we left fashion week with a blank wish list. While some runways celebrated the conceptual, others introduced us to new designers, or gave us a glimpse into the upcoming collections of those we already love. Now the dust has settled, we’re reflecting on the week that was and compiling our M/FW standouts.
Daisy Henry, Assistant Editor
What I loved
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I adored just about everything that hit the runway at the Student Collections show last week. Emerging designers debuting their graduate collections are often at their most conceptual and innovative, and it’s always jaw-dropping. RMIT student Ineska’s Y2K-inspired phone shoes were very fun, though I think I’d very likely break my ankle if I attempted to actually walk in them.
If I had an event that felt worthy, LCI student, Caroline’s voluminous dresses, fit with wooden bows in the shape of a wind-up doll would also be high on my wish list. And my inner child was absolutely beaming when RMIT student Stephanie Hookey’s collection was presented. From the colourful, cushioned head-to-to fit (pictured above) to the multi-level dollhouse, it was whimsical, bright and girly.
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The Closing Showcase was another major standout this M/FW and Erik Yvon’s Second Skin collection completely took my breath away (that green dress!). Amy Cottrell’s zip-tag looks were such a clever and subversive use of recycled, alternative materials (something she’s long been a champion of). And equally impressive was Jarrod Reid’s Scottish folklore and fairy-inspired gowns. Although my flat-pack Ikea wardrobe could never, that layered, strapless tartan gown and bolero are hanging in my fantasy wardrobe.
What I’d wear
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Though it was an off-schedule runway, I’d be remiss not to mention St. Agni’s Resort ’26 show. I’ve loved the brand for years and some of my longest-serving wardrobe staples are from its very first collections. From the white fringing to the chocolate leather, pencil skirts, beaded belts, cowl-neck halter tops, every single piece from the show is my wish list.
Bruce’s vintage sheer tops and capri pant, as featured in the Closing Showcase, also had my heart, as did Lucinda Babi’s mustard leather jacket and off-the-shoulder plaid top. And because I’m only human, I took about a dozen photos of Niamh Galea’s babydoll dresses and it’s only a matter of time before I’m wearing them everywhere this summer.
Lara Daly, Senior Editor
What I loved
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I had high hopes for the Emerging Artist’s Collective runway after reading Daisy’s piece profiling a few of the designers, including many names I’d not come across before. The showcase at Kensington Town Hall didn’t disappoint! I loved the slow pace of the models who entered from the spotlighted stage, I could see the designs up close and all the work that went in to them.
A few of my favourites from the night were Chelsea Farquar, Phillipa Signorelli and Ineska Harrison, they all had a real sense of fun and whimsy. From the Students Collections show, I couldn’t stop thinking about RMIT student Tilly Rice’s incredible heel-less hooves inspired by ballet pointe shoes, and from the Closing Runway, I adored seeing Corin Corcoran’s collection, with its creative use of feathers and found objects – and meeting her before the show!
What I’d wear
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The whole of M/FW for me was about 60 per cent ‘appreciating the art’ and 40 per cent mentally adding pieces to my wish list. I’d kill for a pair of Kahe wedge boots, it was so cool to see how they were styled at the show (they shape-shift from a mule into a boot, two for one!) and I’ll definitely be ordering some colourful socks and tights from Niamh Galea, who showed a gorgeous collection at the Closing Runway. Oh, and a Karlaidlaw fringed bag and a beaded belt from Lucinda Babi, please.
Holly Villagra, Branded Content and Production Coordinator
What I loved
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One of my highlights was the Fashion x Music Runway in collaboration with Collarts. I loved The Social Studios’ approach, showing pieces from their Sari Project, with partner, Kahini. They incorporated upcycled cuts of varied saris into a kaleidoscope of colour. It feels effortless yet incredibly impactful at the same time. Showing that fashion, as always, can be achieved through sustainable practices.
I was completely captivated by Gail Sorronda’s collection, especially the open corseted skirt dripping in diamonds and bows and the dreamy tiered purple dress. Gail’s execution of silhouettes is in a league of its own.
What I’d wear
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As a plus-sized woman, this question of ‘what I’d wear’ isn’t always easy to answer. But I’m happy to say that one of the most exciting parts of this year’s M/FW was the range of designers offering inclusive sizing in their collections.
From night two’s Opulent Tastes Runway, I’d happily wear any of Perple’s pieces. As a made-to-order label, I could purchase each look in my size including the Amour metallic top and skirt, or that incredible buttery leather jacket I spotted. I’d 100 per cent wear it out for rooftop drinks in Melbourne.
From the final runway, Cakey Sportsman’s pieces are ones I’d wear every day if I could. I was especially drawn to the Garden print – I can already picture pairing that top with a sharp winged eyeliner.
Find more from Melbourne Fashion Week here.
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