Melbourne Spring Fashion Week 2016

Overview

It's finally time to shed those winter coats. Spring is here and it's brought with it a week-long program of runways, workshops, panels, markets and stylish soirees. It's okay if you're not a professional model or a high-flying designer either. MSFW offers opportunities for people of all styles and threads; hell, even jeans and runners are making a comeback these days.

Hardcore fashionistas will find their home this year with a vast selection of runway shows. For those wanting to cast their eye over garments that are actually somewhat affordable, check out the contemporary runway, which will feature the likes of local legends ALPHA60, búl and Kawaii. As always the emerging runway shows will prove to be a good chance to spot the up-and-comers, and a new event called ARTZ will combine the unlikely pairing of fashion and poetry on the catwalk.

For everyone else, MSFW's Curated program is the way to go, with a whole slew of high teas, exhibitions, talks and workshops. The festival hub is smack bang in the middle of the CBD in City Square and will be quietly humming with excellent free events for the duration of the festival.

Of course, you're not expected to do all this without a drink in hand. Campari is one of the official sponsors of the festival and will be mixing up crisp Campari Tonics at runway times for the duration of the festival. Also on display at the bar will be an exclusive collection of Campari artworks and advertisements that span 155 years, from vintage to the modern day — proving that, just like good fashion design, the signature ruby red Italian aperitif is timeless. Just make sure your outfit matches the drink.

By Meg Watson and Lauren Vadnjal.