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Focussed not just on design talent from Victoria but the whole of Australian, Melbourne Spring Fashion Week (MSFW) presents a massive program complete with official catwalks, after parties, and unofficial events. Occurring just before Melbourne's Spring Racing Carnival, the fashion week brings the best of Spring/Summer fashion to the city. Below you'll find coverage of MSFW 2009 and past years such as MSFW 2008 and MSFW 2007.

Modern Odyssey - MSFW 2008

Melbourne's so called 'incandescent' labels combined with a theatrical (or was it interpretive) runway show as the finale for Melbourne Spring Fashion Week's official parades. The show seemed to bring the cream of the crop of Melbourne's fashion community who created a tense atmosphere of great expectations for the featuring labels. For the most part these expectations were met, but also so were the anticipated duds.

[ Read the rest of 'Modern Odyssey - MSFW 2008' ]

Alexi Freeman Grecian Decollete Dress

If you made it to High Fashion, High Tea at MSFW last weekend, odds are you will remember this dress. Made from the most luscious hand-painted silk jersey fabric, Alexi Freeman's Grecian Decollete Dress falls elegantly across the body and feels delightful against the skin.

This gorgeous dress is also one of 12 finalists of the Caulfield Classic People's Choice Awards. It may not be the most obvious choice for a spring racing outfit; with its edgy black, white and gold prints, and Grecian-inspired cut; but that's precisely what makes it such a stand out entrant. It's up against other great outfits from the likes of Yeojin Bae, T.L Wood, and Saxonne. Cast your vote on which dress should win the award, and you'll also go into the draw to win heaps of great prizes yourself; including members passes to the Caulfield Cup and a $500 Chadstone shopping center voucher.

[ Read the rest of 'Alexi Freeman Grecian Decollete Dress' ]

High Fashion, High Tea; Backstage Pictures

Leave it to photographer Wayne Wong to not only snap pictures of your models at the end of the catwalk, but also backstage. That's precisely what Wayne did at September 2008's High Fashion, High Tea when he took some of the event's models and took full advantage of the setting in between catwalks.

Xin and Nina in Pleasure State by Wayne Wong

[ Read the rest of 'High Fashion, High Tea; Backstage Pictures' ]

Kaleidescape - MSFW 2008

Proving that steps and seven inch heels don't mix, Melbourne Spring Fashion Week's Kaleidescape parade opened this evening with Sally Graham, the face of fashion week, not so much traversing the stairs but falling down them.

Such is the life of a model on a ridiculous square catwalk that many a person has been miffed about. But proving her professionalism Graham simply picked herself up, and got on with it having joined the esteemed company of many a professional model - yes Jessica Stam, we're looking at you.

[ Read the rest of 'Kaleidescape - MSFW 2008' ]

Out of the Shadows: MSFW 2008

Out of the Shadows, the second main parade of Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, was aimed at the cool kids. You know, the ones who consider themselves quite alternative but are somehow yet to realise that their quirky styles have become rather mainstream and commercial. And so the usual suspects - along with FAT, purveyor of all such things - took to the MSFW stage... but were sadly less edgy, less new than usual.

[ Read the rest of 'Out of the Shadows: MSFW 2008' ]

The Luxe Collective - MSFW 2008

In the surrounds of the Victorian majesty that is the Melbourne Town Hall, Melbourne Spring Fashion Week 2008 hit its stride yesterday evening when Sally Graham took to the catwalk and opened The Luxe Collective show.

As if proof that things haven't gone quite smoothly for MSFW of late, a naming sponsor notably absent from this year's line-up, it was a night where organisers tried to be somewhat different.

[ Read the rest of 'The Luxe Collective - MSFW 2008' ]

MSFW 2008 launch party

In the nouveau riche surroundings that is Silk Road, and watched over by some suspect Caravaggio interpretations, Melbourne Spring Fashion Week (MSFW) 2008 launched this evening.

Attracting what can be best described as Melbourne's usual suspects, from yours truly through to the likes of Richard Nylon and Gwendolynne Burkin, Melbourne's fashion scene descended en masse to glimpse a preview of what's in store for us over the coming week.

[ Read the rest of 'MSFW 2008 launch party' ]

In your gift bag: Palmolive Pure Cashmere

As dedicated lovers of fashion, we all know that the softness of genuine cashmere can't be beaten. So how about taking the luxury of cashmere, and applying it to skincare? In your MSFW High Fashion, High Tea giftbag, you'll have the opportunity to sample Palmolive's luxurious Pure Cashmere shower cream, which contains extract of 100% natural cashmere.

[ Read the rest of 'In your gift bag: Palmolive Pure Cashmere' ]

Mediterranean Breeze by Elizabeth Arden

Sweet sparkling fruits and delicate florals combine with sensual woods and addictive musks to create a scent reminiscent of a warm breeze on a summer day. An inviting, and in fact truthful, description for Elizabeth Arden's latest fragrance, Mediterranean Breeze.

If you're attending High Fashion High Tea during Melbourne Spring Fashion Week (MSFW), look out for a sample of this delicious new fragrance in your gift bag, courtesy of The Perfume Connection.

[ Read the rest of 'Mediterranean Breeze by Elizabeth Arden' ]

Gary Bigeni Spring/Summer 2008/2009

Gary Bigeni's designs are almost paradoxical: his choice of fabrics and colours are so simple, and yet his designs are utterly unique in their construction. Bigeni adds trademark twists and drapes that are almost escher-esque in their complexity - which contrast perfectly to the overall simplicity of the garments. His Spring / Summer 2008-2009 collection brings electric blue, soft grey and muted tangerine into the mix.

Gary Bigeni's S/S collection will show at High Fashion High Tea during Melbourne Spring Fashion Week (MSFW). Follow the link to reserve your place at the event.

[ Read the rest of 'Gary Bigeni Spring/Summer 2008/2009' ]

In your gift-bag: Carman's Fine Foods

High Fashion, High Tea, our Melbourne Spring Fashion Week (MSFW) event, is only two weeks away! We're busy packing 100 gift bags full of goodies, for our guests to take home on the day.

One of the gorgeous gifts to be found in the bags are muesli bars from Carman's Fine Foods. Carman's bars are wheat free, high in fibre, with low GI for long lasting sustained energy. Made from a blend of hazelnuts, cracked almonds and pecan pieces (amongst other yummy things), and tossed with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. Soft and chewy, you are sure to love them too! They're also 100% Australian Made & Owned.

[ Read the rest of 'In your gift-bag: Carman's Fine Foods' ]

Miss Lyndel Yeo Spring/Summer 2008-2009

Miss Lyndel Yeo is never one to shy away from bright colours and bold prints... and her Spring collection for 2008 is no exception. Eye-catching pinks, purples and blues are paired with feminine cuts and floaty fabrics for a fresh, lively feel. We especially love the ruffled single-shoulder dresses and the addition of the rose fascinator headband... so perfect for the spring racing season!

Miss Lyndel Yeo will be featured on the runway at MSFW's High Fashion, High Tea. Book your tickets early to ensure your place, and also to go into the draw to win some great prizes.

[ Read the rest of 'Miss Lyndel Yeo Spring/Summer 2008-2009' ]

WIN: Sassi Sam and Party Feet Gift Packs!

In case you didn't read it in our newsletter, we've got some fantastic gift packs to give away in conjunction with our Melbourne Spring Fashion Week (MSFW) event, High Fashion, High Tea.

Firstly, a $100 Scholl Party Feet pack is up for grabs - including Hollywood Tape, new Scholl Party Feet Ultra Slim Gel Cushions, Toe Post Strips, Gel Inserts, Heel Cushions, Sore Spots, Heel Shields, Blister Plasters and Slingback Strips. Everything you need to keep you dancing!

[ Read the rest of 'WIN: Sassi Sam and Party Feet Gift Packs!' ]

Antonia Paris Spring/Summer 2008/2009

Antonia Paris' Spring/Summer 2008/2009 collection recently debuted at Rosemount Sydney Fashion Festival alongside the likes of Bettina Liano and Nevenka. A simple yet seductive range that plays a lot to 2008's single-shoulder trend, Antonia's dresses mix flouncing ruffles with fitted silhouettes, playful feathers, and ruched satin.

Like what you see? If you're in Melbourne see Antonia's designs on the catwalk as a featured collection at MSFW's High Fashion, High Tea. Follow the link to reserve your seats.

[ Read the rest of 'Antonia Paris Spring/Summer 2008/2009' ]

Pearl earrings in your MSFW parade gift bag

We think this pair of pearl earrings would look simply delightful on you. That's why they're a gift, from ourselves and Joolz, to the first 100 attendees of High Fashion, High Tea; Fashionising.com's afternoon tea and fashion parade fusion event to be held during Melbourne Spring Fashion Week MSFW.

[ Read the rest of 'Pearl earrings in your MSFW parade gift bag' ]

Melbourne Spring Fashion Week Program 2008

The program for 2008's Melbourne Spring Fashion Week in now online, and it's a busy one!

With catwalks from the likes of White Suede, Alpha60, and Gail Sorronda, and special events such as days out at the races and, of course, Fashionising.com's High Fashion, High Tea, it's a calendar of events guaranteed to entertain.

Hosted with Midnight Fashion, this year's High Fashion, High Tea will be held on Saturday, 6 September at Trunk in Melbourne.

[ Read the rest of 'Melbourne Spring Fashion Week Program 2008' ]

ARA Lord Mayor's Innovation Award

During the chaos of Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, we were pleased to be able to take an afternoon out to attend the Australian Retailers Association / City of Melbourne Lord Mayor's Innovation Award luncheon.

To start off the event, a panel of previous winners, including Fashioniser Fiona from Hidden Secrets Tours, responded in depth to questions around business innovation and the future of retail. Next, the nominees for the Lord Mayor's Award were introduced.

[ Read the rest of 'ARA Lord Mayor's Innovation Award' ]

Ted Baker flagship store opening MMSFW

When one of our favourite labels from the United Kingdom opened their flagship store in Melbourne during Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, naturally we were there.

[ Read the rest of 'Ted Baker flagship store opening MMSFW' ]

The Looking Glass: Husk at MMSFW

For me, Husk were the stand out of Thursday night's Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week show. From the crumpled mini-dress that subtly seeped from yellow to a khaki-ish green, to the bold and wonderful accessorising, Husk finally took the show up a notch.

[ Read the rest of 'The Looking Glass: Husk at MMSFW' ]

The Looking Glass: Jayson Brunsdon at MMSFW

Arctic Monkeys blaring, chesty bonds under their gowns and chucks on their feet. Conceptually, it was a cool idea and should have worked. Though the models put in as much attitude as they could muster, somehow it just didn't gel. Styling aside though, the dresses were embellished with beautiful beaded detail and would make for striking evening wear.

[ Read the rest of 'The Looking Glass: Jayson Brunsdon at MMSFW' ]

The Looking Glass: Aurelio Costarella

More white, more florals, more tiered ruffles... Aurelio Costarella stuck to the major spring trends at MMSFW; but not without some added twists. Perhaps the most interesting and stand-out added detail was what could best be described as devil horns protruding out from each side of a black bustier.

[ Read the rest of 'The Looking Glass: Aurelio Costarella' ]

The Looking Glass: Anna Thomas at MMSFW

Anna Thomas at MMSFW was sporty and preppy, yet still feminine, with a hint of the 1950s thrown in. Full skirts were balanced out by the androgyny of man-style shoes. A preppy blazer would fit perfectly with shorts, a white skirt of pair of jeans, whilst other outfits included pretty knee-length spring dresses.

[ Read the rest of 'The Looking Glass: Anna Thomas at MMSFW' ]

The Looking Glass: Christine at MMSFW

Christine Boutique is one of Melbourne's hidden gems. A tucked away, unsigned doorway that leads to a treasure-trove of accessories. Ladies thinking about Spring Racing could easily have found themselves enamoured by the collection of hats that went on parade; whilst the handbags, shoes and jewellery also included some great pieces.

[ Read the rest of 'The Looking Glass: Christine at MMSFW' ]

The Looking Glass: Nevenka at MMSFW

Much like their Autumn / Winter collection which incorporated pretty florals, pastels and creams, Nevenka's Spring / Summer collection was true to their style. A palette of gorgeous pink, lilac and turquoise shades found its way into the floaty fabrics of the dresses. Thought we've not been too keen on the maxi-dress trend, Nevenka brought something prettier and more elegant to it than previously seen.

[ Read the rest of 'The Looking Glass: Nevenka at MMSFW' ]

Style Wars: Material Boy at MMSFW

Material Boy sent their models floating down the MMSFW runway in white masks, in what appeared to be a Japanese anime inspired parade. The effect was eerie yet entertaining, the clothing unique but not something you'd envisage will become the mainstream. You couldn't help but have your attention drawn to the men's shorts, which were inbuilt with exaggerated cod-pieces. Not for the faint-hearted! For the girls there were oversized singlet dresses printed with colourful balloons.

[ Read the rest of 'Style Wars: Material Boy at MMSFW' ]

Style Wars: Alpha60 at MMSFW

Batwing sleeves, metallics and unique prints. Alpha60 continued to do what they do best with individual but simple designs. The accessorising was particularly good for the womens, with black day-gloves and printed bags, all accompanied by beautifully sculptured shoes by Melissa (also used by Friedrich Grey).

[ Read the rest of 'Style Wars: Alpha60 at MMSFW' ]

Zenzero MMSFW Parade at Baroq House

Tuesday night, Fashionising.com premiered Zenzero's S-S 07-08 collection, including the debut of their first mens line, at Melbourne's opulent Baroq House. Packed to capacity, Fashionisers and their guests enjoyed canapes, champagne, music and giftbags.

Designer Quoc Luu's divine dresses floated down the runway on resident Fashionising models Crystal, Esh, Jodie, Kay, Matula, Angii, Rikki-lee and Simone. Zenzero's dresses are the sort that anyone could put on and look instantly amazing. From the light summer florals to the show-stopping piece - a black knee-lenth gown with detailed beading and feathers at the hem - there was much to enjoy.

Above photos by Wayne Wong.

[ Read the rest of 'Zenzero MMSFW Parade at Baroq House' ]

Style Wars: Friedrich Grey at MMSFW

Wide-leg jeans may be growing more popular as a mainstream trend, but in the underground Melbourne fashion scene skinny jeans show no sign of slowing down. Friedrich Grey was another designer that used them, accompanied by cool vests and hoodies on the boys.

For the girls it was dead sexy sheer tops layered over barely-there singlets. Though all the photographers were probably miffed by the ridiculously fast and angry music (which had the models practically running down the runway), all up I thought it a really cool collection. My favourite piece - the leather skirt with zip split up the centre. Hot and edgy.

[ Read the rest of 'Style Wars: Friedrich Grey at MMSFW' ]

Style Wars: Claude Maus at MMSFW

My favourite tee is by Claude Maus - it's grey and has 'Dark Satanic Mills' printed on it, a quote from William Blake's Jerusalem, with an outline of an industrial skyline. I love it so much that I was looking especially forward to seeing the Claude Maus parade at Wednesday night's 'Style Wars' show.

There was nothing quite as cool as my Jerusalem tee in this collection, I was slightly disappointed to find... but there were some fabulous pieces none-the-less. For the men's it was leggings, skinny pants or jeans, and cool jackets.

[ Read the rest of 'Style Wars: Claude Maus at MMSFW' ]

Style Wars: Kate Hurst at MMSFW

If there's any one piece so far at MMSFW that I want to run out and buy, it's the cropped leather jacket sent down the runway by Kate Hurst. Ok, so I have a few already... but this one was right on trend. And having kept an eye on the leather jacket trend, it's one I love.

[ Read the rest of 'Style Wars: Kate Hurst at MMSFW' ]

Style Wars: Romance Was Born at MMSFW

You can always count on Romance Was Born to bring something a little different, a little kooky, and a little fun to fashion week. Wednesday night's parade at MMSFW was no exception. Entitled 'Wierd Science', and aptly accompanied by footage from the 80s film of the same name, the collection was eclectic and creative.

Animal activists would be up-in-arms at the sight of a model draped in a fox-fur... but, though we can't condone the killing of foxes, this particular outfit was certainly visually striking and powerful. Other outfits were accessories by novelty eye-ball glasses, a backpack worn as a top, and brightly coloured printed leggings.

[ Read the rest of 'Style Wars: Romance Was Born at MMSFW' ]

Style Wars: TV at MMSFW

TV opened their MMSFW show with metallic reds; an interesting take on the metallics trend and nice break from the usual silvers and golds we've seen so much of. The colour palette moved quickly through greys and blacks, using checkered patterns in a variety of ways, and then finally onto bright yellows - a sure-fire hit for summer.

[ Read the rest of 'Style Wars: TV at MMSFW' ]

Hot in the City: Bettina Liano at MMSFW

In stark contrast to the girly, floaty dresses we've been seeing so much of, Bettina Liano just loves to come along and sex things up. Right down to the hot gladiator heels (which we've been following as a trend) Liano stuck to what she's good at: pure sex appeal.

[ Read the rest of 'Hot in the City: Bettina Liano at MMSFW' ]

Hot in the City: Clemente Talarico at MMSFW

Hot, hot, hot! Clemente Talarico's Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week show brought European-style tailoring to menswear this summer. Tailored shorts with neatly cut suit-jackets and tucked in shirts were accessorised by pattered scarfs, pocket handkerchiefs and rich leather belts.

[ Read the rest of 'Hot in the City: Clemente Talarico at MMSFW' ]

Hot in the City: Flamingo Sands at MMSFW

Flamingo Sands at MMSFW was typical pool and beach wear, without too much variation from the traditional formula. Nautical prints were absent from Flamingo Sands this time around, with florals taking to the fore. The stand-out piece? A black, floral, plunge-neck monokini (below, left), the perfect balance between pretty and sexy.

[ Read the rest of 'Hot in the City: Flamingo Sands at MMSFW' ]

Hot in the City: Flux at MMSFW

Do you love the 80s? Wish you were back there? Then Flux is probably for you. Their MMSFW show was full of bright colours, 80s graphic prints, bow-ties and Raybans, the designs were nothing new, but will still take the fancy of Flux's following.

[ Read the rest of 'Hot in the City: Flux at MMSFW' ]

Hot in the City: Leopold at MMSFW

Leopold's MMSFW parade threw several styles into the mix, from geek chic to rockstar to preppy. Thick black rimmed glasses and grandpa cardigans were mixed in with preppy shorts and v-neck knits. Shiny black leggings, not dissimilar to those we've soon on women's runways, also starred. Watch out for leggings on men, looks like they'll be a trend for the week.

[ Read the rest of 'Hot in the City: Leopold at MMSFW' ]

Hot in the City: White Suede at MMSFW

There was nothing truly unique or standout-ish at White Suede, who hit the runway for Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week's day one parade at Melbourne Town Hall. But what they did present was a pretty, simple and easy-to-wear collection.

[ Read the rest of 'Hot in the City: White Suede at MMSFW' ]

Fashionising gift bags and giveaways at MMSFW

We're partying hard for Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week... and for fashionisers coming along to our Baroq House parties you'll be able to treat yourself to a free gift bag compliments of our fashion week sponsors.

[ Read the rest of 'Fashionising gift bags and giveaways at MMSFW' ]

Dorothy and Evelyn MMSFW S-S 07/08

If you weren't at Baroq House to see Dorothy and Evelyn's Spring-Summer 2007/2008 collection during Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week last night, here's a glimpse of what you missed.

[ Read the rest of 'Dorothy and Evelyn MMSFW S-S 07/08' ]

Miishu Fashion Boutique SS 07/08 MMSFW launch

There may have been four launch parties for Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, but there was only one parade; Miishu Fashion Boutique launched their Spring-Summer 2007/2008 range at Melbourne's opulent Baroq House last night.

A mixture of hot mini dresses and tight tops really served to remind us exactly why we Spring and Summer can be so damn sexy.

[ Read the rest of 'Miishu Fashion Boutique SS 07/08 MMSFW launch' ]

The MMSFW launch parties - four in one night!

Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week kicked off last night, a day early and with not one but four different parties!

The créme de la créme of Australia's fashion world kicked things off at Alto, the visually stunning 25th floor of Melbourne's Langham hotel. Drinks, cakes, oysters, and models galore all helped set the theme for what will be a hell of a week. Of course, things didn't store there.

[ Read the rest of 'The MMSFW launch parties - four in one night!' ]

The Melbourne Spring Fashion Week Parties

Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week as we party at Baroq House all week long, with special fashion events and give-aways each night.

Click an event for more information on what Fashionising.com has in store for you.

[ Read the rest of 'The Melbourne Spring Fashion Week Parties' ]

Zenzero MMSFW parade - your invite

Written by Daniel P Dykes on 27.08.07

Australian label Zenzero are launching their Spring-Summer 2007/2008 collection during Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, including the very special début of their men's line. With Fashionising.com presenting the launch at Baroq House, you're naturally invited.

[ Read the rest of 'Zenzero MMSFW parade - your invite' ]

Last chance for backstage at MMSFW

Written by Daniel P Dykes on 21.08.07

If you missed out on the opportunity to work backstage at Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week (MMSFW) Melbourne Town Hall parades, don't fret - once last opportunity has come up via Fashionising.com's Casting Call board.

Backstage help needed for a parade September 7th at the BMW Edge in Federation Square from 3.30pm - 8.30pm.

For the full details, view the post: Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week help

[ Read the rest of 'Last chance for backstage at MMSFW' ]

Melbourne Spring Fashion Week Launch Parade

Written by Daniel P Dykes on 07.08.07

The build up to Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week continues with the MMSFW launch parade held yesterday in Melbourne's dystopian Docklands.

[ Read the rest of 'Melbourne Spring Fashion Week Launch Parade' ]

MMSFW Fashion Parade Details Announced

Written by Daniel P Dykes on 06.08.07

Details of the upcoming Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week parades have been announced. Sadly there'll only be only four official parades all up (eight if you count the repeats), but with over 120 events a part of the week you'll be sure to get your fashion fix.

Hot In The City
From chic resort to sporty glam to scorching swimwear, this season’s super hot styles scream that summer is coming.
More info: MMSFW 'Hot In The City' Parade 1 and MMSFW 'Hot In The City' Parade 2

[ Read the rest of 'MMSFW Fashion Parade Details Announced' ]

Jacqui Alexander - new face of MMSFW

Written by Daniel P Dykes on 02.08.07

Only a fortnight after dumping Claire Quirk, the Melbourne City Council have announced that model and fashion designer Jacqui Alexander is the new face of Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week.

Alexander, who hit the press earlier this year after becoming the youngest fashion designer to be stocked at London's Harvey Nichols, is naturally excited about her upcoming role. She's also aware that MMSFW is one of the few fashion events truly open to the fashionistas who make the industry possible; "This show, unlike many others I've been involved in, really celebrates fashion and opens fashion up to the public, who normally get excluded from industry events," she told the Herald Sun.

Jacqui Alexander and MMSFW's former face Claire Quirk

[ Read the rest of 'Jacqui Alexander - new face of MMSFW' ]

Volunteer positions at MMSFW

Written by Tania Braukamper on 29.07.07

Registrations for volunteer positions at Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week 2007 close today - so if you want to volunteer for the festival, best get in quick! These volunteer spots are a great opportunity to gain experience, make contacts, and get a first hand look at what goes on behind the scenes.

Motorola Melbourne Spring Fashion Week will be taking place from 3 - 9 September, 2007.

Download the application form.

[ Read the rest of 'Volunteer positions at MMSFW' ]