Wedding gowns that transform into sequin rompers, gold bikinis and at least four eliminated The Bachelor contestants were the highlights of the festival's 10th anniversary celebration, which counts Mercedes-Benz and property developers Lendlease as sponsors.

The guest list was a refreshing mix of fashion folk and everyday inspirations, Jennifer Hawkins, Alex Perry, child safety advocate Denise Morcombe, Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and The Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce all made cameos.

Here's five things we learned from Brisbane Fashion Festival:

Detachable wedding dresses are a smart investment

Elizabeth De Varga stole the show at the bridal showcase with her creations that were, at the pull of a press stud, transformed into princess-style wedding gowns to white sequinned jumpsuit, the perfect look for the Noosa bride. Darb Bridal Couture and Megan Cannings' statement looks proved that brides and tulle go together like Wally Lewis and rugby league.

Eyebrow queen Cara Delevingne wouldn't be welcome in Queensland

The word from the make-up chairs backstage is that thick, full brows are not as popular as they are south of the border. Napoleon Perdis' make-up directors said sculptural with the higher arch is the preferred look. Humidity is a curse even for facial hair, I guess.

Sequin swimwear is no long a meter maid's uniform

Aqua Blu's gold shiny one-piece and bikini was a highlight, literally. Sequins on swimwear are not practical and a little meter maid-esque but with the right accessories and footwear these gems could be Queensland's best export since Johnathan Thurston.

Cargo shorts and bright bold shoes are acceptable for men

White cargo shorts are usually considered the Dad Jean of the short world, however Uberman worked them with boat shoes and a button-up shirt, which for the tropical months ahead, will be bang on for smart casual outings. However do not, under any circumstances team said shorts with Urbbana's red and white speckled brogues – save them for night-time or the disco.

Risky Business is still a strong style influence

Paul Hunt has really hit his stride. The bridal and couture designer is evolving into quite the ready-to-wear maestro thanks to his combination of bright and bold Queensland colours and textures with simple, staple pieces such as the white collared shirt. His textured swing coat and sheer maxi shirt with a crisp cotton number made the hero pieces sing better than Bernard Fanning.