Day 1 of MBFWA kicked off in superb style with some of our Aussie favourites showing us their latest Spring Summer 2012/13 Collections. With many high profile attendees and designers trotting about the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay, MBFWA geared up for a fashion packed day. Complete with local and international bloggers and media surrounding the venues, everyone just wanted to catch a glimpse of the glamour that is Fashion Week!

Romance Was Born opened the week with a collection inspired by Marvel comic cartoon style. It was heavily embellished with a superhero theme evident throughout. The very graphic, bright and colourful garments were ompleted with red mullet wigs and bright blue eye makeup.

Gary Bigeni showcased a beautiful collection, simple and classic silhouettes with bright bursts of blue, black and orange hues - topped off with a new take on the polka dot and 70s-inspired square prints. A simply stunning and cohesive collection!

And then came Camilla, who, this year, showed us more of what she’s become known for - her feminine caftans - but, she went all tribal, transporting us around the globe like Australian, Balinese and American Indian influences. Exquisite embroidery, beading and bright colors paraded down the runway!

Dylan Cooper showed in The Box, a new installation space where viewers were invited to walk around and get up close and personal with the garments. Here the models stood on large white boxes and the garments were presented as if part of an art display on show. In true Dylan style, (for those familiar with the Project Runway winner) the collection paid close attention to detail, featuring gorgeous panelling, floral and paisley-esque prints and exquisite pleating.

Miss Unkon (main image) didn’t disappoint either, as designer Courtney Meyer drew inspiration from a magical place combined with a Miami feel. The collection was whimsical in appearance with muted color tones, intricate metal embellishment and, in the final show stopping number, a magnificent hand-stitched embroidered dress in a stunning pink tone with a neutral base paraded down the catwalk.

Manning Cartell showed off-site with a trend driven collection complete with neons and a sport luxe vibe whilst Aurelio Costarella‘s gorgeous creations first began with a romantic mood and suddenly turned fierce, featuring classic silhouettes and impeccable detail. The collection featured feathers, embroidered florals and sequins whilst headpieces were also worn by the models to add an extra element of elegance. The colour palette moved from neutral, silver and black tones to a more citrus, chartreuse, ivory and mermaid blue palette as the show progressed.

International favourite Whitney Port did not disappoint as she debuted at MBFWA with her Whitney Eve line and her WE by Whitney Eve collection. Both collections showed her feminine and quirky style which was evidenced through her soft pastel colour palette, beautifully draped basics and girly basics. She was definitely well received by the crowd, even making a little speech to all the photographers and attendees about how grateful and excited she was to be debuting in Australia with the exciting announcement that her WE by Whitney Eve line will be exclusively available at Sportsgirl, in September.

Ksubi and Ginger and Smart rounded up the first fashion-packed day, the latter celebrating their 10th anniversary.

Highlight
Standout collection of the day was Gary Bigeni - beautiful, bright, elegant and sleek.

Fashion Moment
The final piece shown by Miss Unkon was simply gorgeous! The hand stitched embroidery was magnificent!

From the Front Row
Big names spotted at the Camilla show: Yasmin Sewell, Christine Centenera, Kristie Clements and Susie Bubble. And of course, the fans of the label were decked out in kaftans.

Trend Watch
On the runway, there were many designers who played with simple silhouettes and added a custom digital print in line with their overall inspiration. On the streets, there was an abundance of neon, sky-high heels and bright prints - florals, geometric and digital manipulations.

Words by Rebecca Glaser Photos by Jessi White and Vanessa Low

Article has been edited. All collections reviewed have been seen in person by the On The Streets Of Sydney team.