Sometimes the most jaw-dropping fashion festival outfits aren't found on the runway.
Outside the opening shows at the Melbourne Fashion Festival, hundreds of fashionistas were revelling in the chance to show off their designer outfits.
"It's like Christmas each year. I love the fashion festival, I'm here every day this week," said Eva Schelling, wearing a dress and headpiece from local designer Estelle.
The festival is marking its 30th year with a 15-day program of more than 100 events, with many securing tickets for a whole week of fashion shows.
Wearing an intricately crafted yellow jacket by Indian label Triune, Dr Jacob Awotwi attended the first night of runway shows with his husband Peter Fabian.
The Melbourne GP said he liked to showcase emerging designers, because some don't get the recognition they deserve.
"I get complimented every day because I dress up for work, and I love turning up well for my patients," he said.
The festival forecourt at the Royal Exhibition Building provided an opportunity for next-level outfits, he said.
"It's so many gorgeous people, I just love the energy. It's always good to have an excuse to dress up and show good talent as well."
Runway shows on opening night included Joywear, which featured Linda Jackson, Romance was Born, Gary Bigeni and Nixi Killick among others.
It was followed by the Melbourne Noir runway, with designers including Akira, Gail Sorronda, and Nicol & Ford.
Also revelling in the atmosphere was Bianca Verginis, in an applique dress from Estelle Michaelides' Saint Stella M, with JW Anderson boots and a Bottega Veneta bag.
Verginis described herself as a spiritual healer whose services were often called on by designers, adding that fashion week was her favourite time of year.
"It is amazing, it is such a beautiful energy, I'm all about energy," she said.
Robert Bonomy arrived for the Joywear runway in rubber sunglasses from Bottega Veneta paired with a flowing brightly coloured shirt.
Summing up the joyful atmosphere, the slogan on the back read: "The best is yet to come."
