It's the most wonderful time of the year for fashion fans — Melbourne Fashion Week is returning for a six days of sartorial heaven.
This year, M/FW runways will pop up in unique and unexpected locations, including the rooftop pool deck at new CBD hotel Le Méridien, the Regent Theatre alongside Moulin Rouge! The Musical, the immersive art exhibition Connection at The Lume, an abandoned industrial garage, plus many more. The program for 2023 includes more than 100 free and ticketed fashion events, including nine premium runways, as well as exhibitions, workshops, talks, shopping events and performances. Showcasing their collections on the premium runways will be some of Melbourne's fashion favourites, including Jason Grech, Bec + Bridge, Ngali, Aje, J’Aton, Oroton, Arnsdorf, to name just a few.
Plus, in a celebration of sustainable fashion, up-and-coming fashion designers will showcase their clothing upcycling skills in the Upcycle Runway on October 26. Hosted by VAULT, the National Trust's pre-loved designer fashion outlet, the initiative will transform Block Arcade into a catwalk where ten designers will parade one avant-garde design and one streetwear look. Even better, all of the pieces will be available to buy after the event.
This all sounds very fancy, but don't make the mistake of thinking that fashion events are only for those living the high life. M/FW has plenty of free events and pop-ups to check out if you're strapped for cash. There will be three free runway events popping up across the city this year between October 27 to 29. Details for these surprise pop-ups are on the website, with locations to be revealed soon. In addition to the free runway events, there'll also be free exhibitions on ethical and sustainable fashion.
Vogue American Express Fashion’s Night Out will return again this year, with the shopping festival running from October 26 to October 29. Head into the city for access to free in-store experiences, exclusive discounts, roving entertainment, and giveaways.
Tickets for Melbourne Fashion Week are on sale now. For the full program and to purchase tickets, head to the official website. But get in quick – those premium runways tend to sell out in a flash.
