Underwear models unzip for fashion

Hundreds flocked to Federation Square to watch the Melbourne Fashion Festival's underwear models.

AAP

MELBOURNE might like to think of itself as the nation's fashion capital but it was models wearing very little that hundreds flocked to see on Wednesday.

Shedding some of the heavy winter garments seen earlier in the week at the Melbourne Fashion Festival, flesh was out in force under a blazing sun, with jocks sporting rippling muscles and girls dressed only in striking sheer black bodysuits.

Former Victorian premier Steve Bracks' son Nick drew the most appreciation from the crowds, parading down the catwalk in Jockey shorts and gridiron shoulder padding - and not much else.

He was joined by similarly attired blokes unafraid to strut their stuff in front of a mainly female audience.

The Antz Pantz range danced to an upbeat, showgirl theme, with the popular bikini and singlet sets on show, while the Bondi Rescue Boys wearing Holeproof stopped traffic.

Rio opted to use some plus-sized models in leopard print and polka dots, some carrying little dogs and oversized handbags, in an effort to promote underwear for all shapes and sizes.

Model and television music host Ruby Rose was a little more discreet, somehow getting away with a casual Bonds jersey top and distressed black jeans.

Tourist Jessie, 23, from South Korea, said she had never seen anything like it.

"We do not have this at home," she told AAP.

She described Deano from the Bondi Rescue Boys as "very hot".

Eltham College student Stephen Pidgeon was pleased a school project on festivals had coincided with the sidewalk show.

"Ten out of ten," he grinned.

Mordialloc College schoolgirls Jen, Milly and Jemma picked out the Mossimo range as the most eye-catching.

"It was awesome," said Milly, 14, who also admitted to checking out the shoes, particularly the ankle stilettos.

The UNZIPPED show held at Federation Square is one of several free shows on offer during the popular week-long event.