The idea of edible clothing is nothing new in the sensational world of avant-garde fashion. Most famously, iconoclastic pop singer Lady Gaga grabbed headlines in 2010 when she showed up at the MTV Video Music Awards wearing a "meat dress" made of raw beef, which was of course met with a flurry of criticism from animal-rights activists. Much more palatable and aesthetically pleasing, no doubt, will be the dresses that appear at Tokyo Sweets Collection 2013, where models will strut their stuff in a variety of "sweets dresses" decorated with appetizing confectionery from the hands of nine prominent Japanese pâtissiers. The lineup includes Hironobu Tsujiguchi, Koji Tsuchiya, and Toshi Yoroizuka — all of whom have renowned patisseries in Tokyo.

Top-notch stylist Aco Kondo — known for her elegant work on women's magazines such as JJ, Classy and 25ans —has designed the dresses, and chocolates and candies make a surprising transformation into eye-catching fashion accessories.

Looking at the combination of beautiful women, delectable sweets and well designed dresses will whet the appetite of fashionistas and foodies alike. But for true sweets lovers, nothing tops the experience of actually taking a bite out of the treats on display: The audience will be served handmade delicacies by participating pâtissiers while enjoying the show.

"Tokyo Sweets Collection 2013" takes place at Prince Hotel Shinagawa, Tokyo, on March 9. Tickets cost ¥ 8,000. For more information, call: (03) 6661 1430, or visit www.tokyosweetscollection.com/index.html