FASHION TEAS, THE FASHION SOUK & HOME GROWN TALENT MAKE FOR A VERY STYLISH SATURDAY AT FASHIONWEEK
Fashion fans from Belfast and beyond were out in force yesterday as they attended not one, but three fabulous events in the city as West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK continued. The morning started off in Spires Mall where the popular Fashion Souk event hosted stalls and pop up stores for vintage and previously owned clothing, then later, designer emporium Cruise, from Victoria Square, hosted an exquisite Fashion Tea at the glamorous, five star Merchant Hotel while the catwalk shows continued back at the Ulster Museum with a fantastic show of collections from the very best in Northern Irish design.
Cathy Martin, FASHIONWEEK director said: “Cruise went above and beyond to ensure they provided a truly exquisite display of designer outfits from Victoria Beckham, Vivienne Westwood, Diane Von Furstenberg and Pinko, among others. Each outfit was complemented by fabulous hairstyles, created by our official hair partner, Andrew Mulvenna, and make-up by the Paddy McGurgan Make-up Academy.
Lisa Keir, from Cruise said: “The Cruise fashion teas this season were bigger and better than ever with over 100 ladies in attendance enjoying the fashion and food extravaganza. Our collections were modelled perfectly by the gorgeous FASHIONWEEK models, and in the ultimate luxurious setting.”
Later, at the Ulster Museum, local designers including milliners Grainne Maher and Marie Claire Ferguson alongside Shauna Fay, David Henderson, Nor Lisa, RUEDI, Riona Treacy and Larissa Watson’s Goddess and Swift range, took to the catwalk with their individual collections, showing that Belfast talent is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to flawless fashion design.
Young design was also supported in the form of the Diet Coke Design Award. Three hopeful fashion fans Lucy McElwaine, Scott Wilson and Gordon Donaldson were shortlisted from scores of entries to have their sketches and drawings turned into beautiful garments by designer Una Rodden with the winner walking away with a mini-scholarship to the London College of Fashion as well as a fashion shoot and having the winning design on the catwalk.
The winner was Gordon Donaldson
‘Trashionista’ students from across Northern Ireland also showcased amazing outfits designed and made using only recycled materials as part of the Junk Kouture recycled fashion competition. Last year’s finalists showcased what the next batch of students could potentially make for the grand final in Dublin in May 2014.
FASHIONWEEK Director, Cathy Martin said: “I really enjoy the designer show and feel very proud when watching the work of new and returning talent under the bright lights of the catwalk. The quality of their designs and energy that they put into their work is second to none and they deserve all the recognition they get from the crowd. ”
Returning to Belfast FASHIONWEEK was Newry native Shauna Fay whose sleek designs were a hit with the sellout crowd. She said: “I’m thrilled to have returned this season and to show off my latest work. It’s always nerve wracking for a designer to show off their new collection for the first time, but the Belfast crowd are always so encouraging and complimentary towards my work and this season was no different.”
Also returning to the catwalk this season was the stunning collection Nor Lisa by print and fashion designer Lisa McCabe, she said: “FASHIONWEEK is a great event for young designers which is why I continue to return each season. It opens up doors for young talent and there’s always a great atmosphere at the shows. I also enjoy seeing the collections of the other designers taking part.”
FASHIONWEEK comes to an end today [Sunday 13 October] at SHU restaurant with Style Sunday, which offers a ‘best of FASHIONWEEK’ with key pieces from a selection of the local designers followed by a three course luncheon, all in aid of Mencap. Guests will also have the opportunity to pick the brains of the hair and beauty team for their advice and top tips on hair and make up trends which are big this season.
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