Tonight was the inaugural night of LiveStyle, a new bi-annual fashion festival. A three day festival planned for other capital cities as well, it was appropriate that the first LiveStyle festival was held in Melbourne.

A unique concept which involves music (numerous DJs played sets of a couple hours each) and fashion (including Bettina Liano, Cactus Jam, Mogil, Life with Bird and Phillips), LiveStyle features a huge floor - a veritable maze of shops with each designer/boutique having its own booth - with designer bargains, a bar, fashion and beauty workshops and fashion parades. For a $45 ticket on the Friday night attendees were able to see two fashion shows, a free drink (or a few), canapes and purchase clothing and accessories (mostly sale and sample stock, however also some new stock) from the 50 stores. On the Saturday, a $20 ticket allows general admission to the floor while a $35 ticket also allows access to a show and drink.

I thought the $45 was quite good value for money - I got to see Rhys Uhlich (Australia’s next top model winner) without his shirt on (a group of girls got so excited they all fell off their chairs), a few drinks, delicious aracini balls and rumage through some great bargins. I rudely interupted the following people from their purchasing…

Iskra, 23, Student/Model

I am wearing a vintage 1948 cowboy jacket from overseas, apparently it is one of a kind! My scarf is from Portmans and my top and jeans are Calvin Klein. In Melbourne I like to shop in Prahran, Little Collins Street, and Flinders Lane.

Sophie, 20, Student

I am working at the Mogil booth today, it is pretty busy. My top is from Alice Mccall, my pants are Bettina Liano and my hat and shoes are vintage.

Ashley, 27, Dance Teacher

My favourite place for shopping is Collins Street, I am a bit of a slave for the top end with all its beautiful boutiques! I am wearing a Cue Jacket and Pilgrim dress. My bag is from Mimco and my shoes are Wittner.

Melissa, 20, Event Coordinator

I am here tonight because I am coordinating this event! I am wearing a Patrizia Pepe dress, and a Celine B jacket. I like shopping at Cyberia.