Paypal Melbourne Fashion Festival is back for its 29th run this year. As usual, the program is stacked with exciting runway shows, panels, workshops and performances – 100 all up. Broadsheet Access members can score limited VIP passes to some of the most hotly anticipated events, plus an invite to the exclusive pre-runway lounge.

Of course, figuring out what to see is only half the job. The looks spotted off the runway are often as inspiring as those seen on. Bring your best self with help from Broadsheet’s editors.

Maggie Zhou, fashion editor-at-large

I’ll be attending most of Melbourne Fashion Festival’s premium runways. It’s always such an exciting week at the Royal Exhibition Building – the buzz and atmosphere are unmatched. The National Graduate Showcase is always a highlight of mine. I love seeing what the next generation of designers are up to. I’ll be pulling from my own wardrobe and re-wearing clothes I love. The student runways are always an opportunity to be more experimental – anything goes, really. Last year I wore four skirts stacked on top of each other for a faux-tiered dress ensemble.

Stephanie Vigilante, head of social media

I’m most excited for the New Again runway because I love seeing the clever and creative ways preloved fashion can be repurposed and upcycled. I’ll be raiding my mum’s archival wardrobe for this runway show (and most others in the program). I’ve been so lucky to find something new each time I rummage through the pieces she’s held onto from her youth. There’s currently a midi leather skirt with my name on it. It’ll pair perfectly with the E Nolan x L’Eclisse T-bar kitten heels I recently received for my 30th birthday.

Gitika Garg, directory editor

The National Graduate Showcase is always the highlight for me – it’s boundary-pushing fashion at its best. Creativity soars and you can feel the rush of anticipation before the winner is announced. The festival is always a fun few weeks, but the outfit scramble before shows, not so much! This year, I’m determined to pre-plan my fits and have a bit more of a game plan (let’s hope). I’m thinking of keeping my look simple and layered. I’ll pair a soft yellow slinky lace dress over cream straight-leg linen pants. It’s a pared-back, tonal look, jazzed up with my go-to chunky gold rings, square-toed ballet flats and a slick-back.

Claire Beverley, access program coordinator

I’m heading to Block Party Runway. The event feels like the perfect opportunity to pull off an outrageously maximalist fit. It’s eclectic. It’s bold. It’s an absolute must-see. My dress will be the Alanna Maxi Dress with the Raziya skirt by Fully Fashioning. Shoes? Chastity Black Stretch Boots from Miista. I’ll accessorise with the Silver Lights handbag by Hilo De Mar.

James Williams, creative solutions manager

I’m looking forward to The National Graduate Showcase most. The unbridled creativity from students is routinely my favourite part of any fashion week. I’m also hoping to get to Fashion Talks: Circular Fashion with Broadsheet’s own Maggie Zhou. They’re on the same night, so I’m not sure how to dress for both. I’ll probably wear the Comme des Garcons distressed leather blazer I picked up from a second-hand sale last year, but I haven’t figured out how best to style it yet. Neither event requires me to wear anything too extravagant, so I’ll probably keep it simple with a tee, a pair of jeans and some boots. There’s a pair of loose-fit brown jeans from Pseushi that I’ve been thinking about, maybe this could be my excuse to buy them?

Lily Davidson, Access content writer

You’ll find me at the Resort Glam Runway. The brief is lightweight fabrics and breezy silhouettes – also known as the backbone of my closet. I’m excited to see how Aussie labels are crafting resortwear that’s still a little edgy, a little cool. Comfort’s key for me. Recently, in the throes of an outfit meltdown, I discovered my sheer, wafty Nice Martin maxi skirt – found at Goodbyes – doubles as a strapless dress. I’ve been outfit-repeating it ever since and will do so, shamelessly, again. It’ll go nicely with my trusty (haters would say ancient) ballet flats, the Casa Ayllon glass necklace, and my ludicrously capacious silk scrunchie.

Broadsheet Access members get limited VIP passes to attend Melbourne Fashion Festival. Your ticket includes premium seats from a choice of five runways showcasing the freshest in fashion – including Back in Blak, New Again and the legendary Block Party finale. You’ll also score an invite to the exclusive bar for pre-show nibbles.

 This event is exclusive to Broadsheet Access members. Join today to unlock members-only restaurant tables, savings on top brands and more.