Last Thursday evening, Mary Potter Hospice held a fundraising fashion show at Rutherford and Bond Toyota. The organisers did a wonderful job in delivering a really slick event that was far from being your average fashion show.

For a start, there was no runway! Instead, there were small square platforms dotted around the showroom. Models mingled among the guests; some of whom were seated, others standing in clusters. The models walked around the room, stopping to pose on the slightly elevated platforms to show off the gorgeous clothes they were wearing from H & M and Desire. I had never been to a fashion show like it, but the concept was great, and it worked really well. It was appropriate for the setting and added to the casual and friendly atmosphere – people were talking amongst themselves while enjoying the beautiful clothes. It was great to be able to interact with the models too, and to see up close the fabrics and textures of the clothes.

Now to the clothes… they were simply divine. The stylists did an exceptional job; Desire and H&M stock a huge range, so narrowing down the choices would not have been easy! There were plenty of dresses on show (perfect for a summer wedding or the races), and I liked seeing them paired with cropped blazers, and leggings for a more casual look. In particular, I loved a sunshine yellow dress, with big kangaroo pockets, paired with a gorgeous black tuxedo jacket by Miss Sixty, and a white hooded, embellished dress with pockets by Easton Pearson. I also I loved the fifties style, full skirted dresses worn with satin bomber jackets by Trelise Cooper – a  fun, flirty and modern take on a very ‘ladylike’ look.

There was also a stunning, absolutely gorgeous apple green dress by New Zealand label IPG, with a tie around the waist and a chain detail halter. It was just so lovely, and that colour is so cheerful – great for spring. I also loved a coral dress by Kingan Jones with stunning back. The models wore the most amazing jewellery by local label Heart Wings (more about them in a future blog). This handcrafted statement jewellery complemented the clothes perfectly, and I loved the oversized hearts, crosses, and tiki themed rosary-style necklaces.

The night just got better, with an auction, prize draws, lovely wine and food from Alana Estate and Nosh respectively, and entertainment from Pearl. Hopefully the event raised lots of money for Mary Potter Hospice, and who knows, maybe they’ll do another one next year! I hope so.

Cheers,
Kate