The most exciting thing about fall fashion isn’t the cozy knit sweaters or the luxurious leather boots. It isn’t even the statement outerwear or the opportunities for creative layering. It’s the denim.

These collections encouraged playing with colors, mixing yellow and white gold, going sculptural and indulging in modern takes on the traditional strands of pearls.

From bubble hems and beaded blouses to the return of the bumster, The Australian Financial Review’s fashion editor shares the highlights from the shows.