Models

Hot models have been wearing hot fashions in hot and humid conditions in Melbourne.

Federation Square was hot on all counts for the launch of the city's annual fashion festival curriculum on Wednesday.

At times wilting less than 30 degree heat and high humidity, young models strutted out wearing black and white minis inlaid with fake jewels and gold and silver metallic detail.

The perspiring environment meant Melbourne's fashion crowd for once sought a place in the shade from which to cast their eye over proceedings, as they readied themselves for the festival to begin on March 14.

The festival will include seven runways at Docklands, with shows open to the public.

International designers, such as Calvin Klein's Francisco Costa and former Hermes chairman and chief executive Christian Blanckaert will feature, as well as Australian fashion industry icons and budding designer.