Outside the crowd doesn’t buzz, it roars as people pack into 524 Flinders Street. Designer Daniel Cumbo, the brains behind label IDOL, stands taller than his models in towering platform boots, with not a hair out of place as he prepares his creations for the runway. “This [collection] is taking ready to wear pieces and amping them,” Cumbo says, “It’s playing on the idea of power dressing in every day.”Directed by Bianca Milani,the film featuring IDOL designs references pop culture icons like Paris Hilton and serves as an introduction to the “trashy but chic” vibe of the label.

Fred Hates Fashion audiences are treated to film collaborations between seven designers and directors, each as unique as the last, before viewing these wearable works of art on the runway. First time models are joined by experienced pros like French dancer and model, Babushka, who glides along in a Morticia Adams-esque velvet gown for IDOL.

Edgeley and Tusler’s collaboration is a mix of 1950s, Grease inspired nostalgia – complete with Sandy’s spandex jumpsuit – and lustworthy leather accessories.

Monochromatic with touches of metal, Aaziel’s ornate designs also deserve a mention; Models take to the runway in mesh, lace and sequins, with hair and makeup gleaming with touches of gold.

Menswear isn’t neglected, with Damien Yip and Joseph Jang both showing their skills in drapery, their designs ranging from Yip’s muted, raw edged garments
to Jang’s dark florals, brocade and religious imagery.

There are a few technical slip-ups, but everyone’s having too good a time to care. Only in its second year, Fred Hates Fashion already has loyal devotees and lovers of avant-garde style are bound to party with Fred again when 2015 rolls around.