Runway to Real Life: A Week at MFF
- Tamarra Mc Naught
- Mar 31
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 28
Melbourne came alive with electrifying energy as the fashion elite, emerging designers, and style enthusiasts gathered for the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival (MFF). Seven major runways, a series of thought-provoking workshops, and an industry luncheon at the stunning Glasshouse brought together over 400 of fashion’s finest minds. This was fashion at its finest - where artistry meets accessibility and creativity is a currency all its own.
Street Style Magic
What makes MFF truly magical isn’t just the perfectly curated collections gracing the runway - it’s how Melbourne transforms into a living, breathing catwalk. Street style reigned supreme, with attendees of all ages weaving their style narratives through fearless self-expression. From avant-garde maximalists to the effortlessly chic, each look was a statement, a personal masterpiece.
A Runway with a View - And Sharks
My journey kicked off in the most surreal setting - an independent runway for Aron Katona at the Melbourne Aquarium. Imagine this: models striding down the catwalk while sharks and a graceful sea turtle glided overhead. It was ethereal, immersive, and a true testament to how fashion knows no bounds. The night also introduced me to the breathtaking work of I L M A A L I, a designer whose intricate detailing and fluid silhouettes captivated me. Less than a week later, I found myself donning one of her creations on another runway - fashion coming full circle most organically.
Mark Goss (By Mark Goss), Susie McLean (TV Personality), Alan Raskall (TV & New Personality), Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist) and Gillian Lantouris (Channel 9 News Crime Reporter)
Mark Goss (By Mark Goss), Ralph Ralphsmith (CEO of MFF) and Tamarra McNaught (Fashion Stylist & Celebrity Stylist)
Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist) and Susie McLean (TV Personality)
Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist) and Sai-Wai Foo (Programming & Events Executive MFF)
Melisa Lewis (Digital Creator), Todd Anthony (Head of Fashion Programming MFF) and Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist)
BAZAAR’s Grand Opening
The festival’s official opening runway, presented by BAZAAR, set the tone for a week of sartorial brilliance. Eight designers showcased their collections, with Bianca Spender delivering a masterclass in architectural elegance - clean lines, fluid draping, and a balance of strength and softness. Then came Romance Was Born, bringing its signature whimsical, theatrical flair that had the audience utterly spellbound. A visual feast, a dreamscape of colour and texture -it was everything we hoped for and more.
Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist) and Trine Shelmerdine (Hospitality Sales & Events Executive)
Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist), Mark Goss (By Mark Goss) and Callam McMillan (Entrepreneur)
Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist) and Ilma Ali (Fashion Designer)
Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist) and Ralph Ralphsmith (CEO of MFF)
The Future of Fashion
Tuesday night was all about the next generation, with two runways dedicated to student designers who are redefining the industry. Innovation was the heartbeat of these collections, proving that the future of fashion is in the hands of fearless, boundary-pushing creatives. The raw energy, the fresh perspectives - it was invigorating to witness.
Caz Rowland (Founder of Cazinc The Label) and Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist)
Trine Shelmerdine (Hospitality Sales & Events Executive) and Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist)
A Full Circle Moment
Then came Wednesday - the night of nights. Just a year ago, I was working back of house as a Senior Stylist Assistant, ensuring models were impeccably dressed before they hit the runway. This year? I was front row and centre, glammed up with my fashion tribe, soaking in the spectacle with pure exhilaration.
And then, Alin Le Kal happened. No words could do justice to the breathtaking craftsmanship on display. The show-stopping gown that closed the runway? Absolute chills. This was couture in its most spellbinding form, a moment etched in time.
Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist) and Laura Roscioli (Journalist)
Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist), Trine Shelmerdine (Hospitality Sales & Events Executive) and Charlene Davies (Content Creator)
Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist)
Business, Networking & Menswear
Thursday was a shift in focus - from high fashion to industry insights. The Glasshouse luncheon brought together thought leaders, industry veterans, and emerging talent to discuss the business of fashion, sustainability, and the ever-evolving retail landscape. It was followed by two more dynamic runways - ‘Back in Black,’ a tribute to the power of monochrome, and ‘The Menswear Edit,’ proving that menswear is having a defining moment in contemporary fashion.
Todd Anthony (Head of Fashion Programming MFF), Tamarra McNaught (Fashion & Celebrity Stylist) and Simone (Actress)
From the Runway to Your Wardrobe
What makes MFF so special is the accessibility of it all. Everything that graced the runways is available almost instantly - whether in-store, online, or by special order from smaller designers. The inspiration drawn from these collections filters seamlessly into real life, influencing street style, personal wardrobes, and the way we see fashion in our everyday lives.
This festival was more than just an event—it was a reminder that fashion is alive, ever-changing, and, most importantly, for everyone. From the runway to real life, the magic of MFF lives on.
Stay Stylish Tamarra x
Award Winning Fashion & Celebrity Stylist
