Here are my top highlights from this years Fashion Week….

Every year the skinny model debate resurfaces as soon as the first models begin to strut down the Fashion Week catwalks. I do not condone skinny models in any way, but I hate that this debate tends to overshadow what should be a celebration of our immensely talented Australian fashion designers, many of whom have spent the last couple of months working insanely hard on their collections.  The five days of fashion showed that the hottest trends we’ll see next spring summer are sport luxe, metallic fabrics, leather and loads of prints – everything from bold digital prints to florals.

Carla Zampatti had opening honours. With an impressive 49 years in the industry under her belt, the veteran designer showed a collection of sharp black and white tailored separates and bold evening gowns, with some pops of cobalt blue, tangerine and acid yellow. The show also provided one of the weeks best celebrity spots- Paula Abdul looked chic in a Dolce and Gabbana outfit.

Aurelio Costarella kicked off day two with a colourful collection titled ‘Solaire’ featuring cocktail dresses and evening gowns, featuring intricate details, embellishments, Swarovski crystals, ostrich feathers and tailored leather pieces.

Alex Perry’s show injected some serious star power thanks to supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio. The Victoria Secrets angel wowed the audience in a midriff ensemble, a common trend seen all week. The collection also featured glittering mini dresses, cut out details and splits.

‘Ellery’ showed their collection at Bondi Icebergs and provided the other big celebrity spot for the week Gerard Butler.  

‘By Johnny’ showed a collection of wearable neoprene dresses that ranged from delectable sorbet tones, bright popping colour to shimmering metallic fabrics.

Ginger & Smart’s collection featured delicate layers and stunning floral prints, French laces, sheer silks and must have merino wool knitwear.

Talented designer Michael Lo Sordo explored a softer aesthetic with flowing shapes in sorbet colours. A soft drape trench coat will be a must have item come next summer.

The show of the week belonged to Maticevski who received a standing ovation from the celebrity filled audience for his beautiful collection titled ‘Orchid Metamorphosis’ which featured neoprene full skirts, crystal mesh tops and sports inspired pieces that oozed sexy elegance.

Jayson Brunsdon’s summer collection took us to Rio. Here sexy femininity was spiced with rich Brazilian flavours and colour. Models wore sequined 70’s inspired gowns and flirty separates. More metallics, prints and cut out details were spotted.

Day four finished on a sparkling high thanks to Swarovski. Who sent models Shanina Shaik and the Stenmark twins down the catwalk in front of a star studded front row wearing lust worthy jewels.

On a wet gloomy last day, designer Alice McCall made it a little brighter with her catwalk show which also celebrated her 10 years in the business. Models wore silhouettes that spanned sweetheart rompers, sculptured neoprene dresses, bomber jackets and bonded futuristic sweaters. Her digital prints were impressive and her attention to detail and craftsmanship left many fashionitas in the front row gasping for more.