Rio de Janeiro's winter fashion week has kicked off on a sober note with a utilitarian collection in industrial-strength denims from Alexandre Herchcovitch.

For his second line, the cheaper and more youth-focused Herchcovitch label, the designer looked to the proto-hipsters of 1980s-era New York in his show on Tuesday.

Models were sent out in shirtdresses and bustier catsuits in bleach-splattered raw denim.

Cropped leather jackets and vests topped off the outfits.

They were accessorised with 80-style sunglasses and wedges with translucent plastic heels.