Fashion+Aid made a triumphant return for the third time to the silver enshrouded Palladium ballroom last night as event mastermind Emma Rombotis played host to a full house. Sequins seemed to be the order of the day as a (literally) glittering crowd enjoyed auctions, fire twirlers and an energetic Jessica Mauboy. I was privileged to be a guest of young Melbourne designers Katya and Sarina of label Mina and Katusha and sit in company of the likes of Jenny Bannister (ex-designer and soon-to-be blogger) and The Dressing Room‘s buyer Belinda Vugdelija.

It was an all-Australian lineup on the catwalk. Kooey Swimwear opened the show with their streamlined bikinis and one-piece swimsuits in their signature water-inspired, Aboriginal dot prints. Mina and Katusha took to the stage with their “urban chic” pieces in a wearable colour palette of red, grey, black and white. Asymmetrical stripes, ruffles and animal print gave the range its edge. Fellow emerging local label Stacey Christie presented a selection of goddess-style dresses in vibrant, bird-of-paradise hues. Black Betty debuted their new street wear collection at Fashion+Aid; a maroon tail-jacket particularly stood out for me. Lisa Brown’s collection of dresses embodied the “free spirit” ideal she aims for this season. Delicate lace, soft turquoise colour and floaty silhouettes are highlights. JASONGRECH has come over all regal this time around by utilising rich colours of blue and purple and spectacular feathered adornments on gowns.

This year Fashion+Aid raised funds for Mission Australia who assist the disadvantaged in our community via training, employment, housing and education services. Visit their website and if you appreciate what they are accomplishing perhaps consider donating a dollar or two – I promise it will be good karma!

Fab photos by Patrik Nemes