Canterbury Runway

If anyone has experienced a great change recently it is Christchurch. Despite recent events, the Garden City still hosted the Canterbury Runway Spring 2010 Fashion Collections show, moving it away from the Art Gallery due to the earthquake…

Canterbury Runway Spring 2010

Spring is a time of new beginnings; of new life and a time of change. And if anyone has experienced a great change recently it is Christchurch.

Despite recent events, the Garden City still hosted the Canterbury Runway Spring 2010 Fashion Collections show on 16th September, a night promising “achievable fashion with style”. Originally to be held at the Christchurch Art Gallery, the recent earthquake forced the show to be relocated to the equally grand Convention Centre, where an air of elegance gleamed off the sponsored Audi R8 parked at the entrance, and fire dancers performed breathtaking routines.

Picture left: a garment by Gillian Melhop Studio.

As guests sipped bubbling pink Lindauer and admired each other’s attire, the events of the past few weeks began to fade away as the atmosphere and anticipation of the show grew. Event co-ordinator Angela Stone addressed the audience, promising a collection that would inspire ideas of “new beginnings and opportunities” through fashion and a night of luxury. Christchurch Mayoress Jo Parker welcomed guests, who were treated to a live performance by Mandy Pickering.

One lucky guest won a luxury pamper pack, including the use of an Audi and a stay at the Heritage, including the Champs Elysees day spa. VIP guests were treated to a goody bag provided by Revlon and proceeds from the show went to the NZ Breast Cancer Foundation.

The collection showcased all that is wonderful about spring; fresh and innovative design with classic floral motifs and a strong injection of bright green, pink and blue prints. Portfolio Agency used a range of male and female models of all ages to emphasis the idea of achievable fashion. Fresh spring beauty looks were provided by the Kirsten Stewart School of Make-up. Models shone in designs by Head over heels, Long Island, Barkers, Starfish, Andrea Moore, Ballentynes Men’s and Women’s, Barkers Little Brother, Kooky, Jane Daniels, Sergio’s and Gillian Melhop Studio.

Below: suit from Sergio’s.

Each designer also presented a look for the upcoming Cup and Show week. The show concluded with each designer showcasing a Cup Day outfit.

Below: yellow accessorises a printed dress from Gillian Melhop Studio

Nude shoes complement a summery white dress from Starfish.

A raceday red frock from Gillian Melhop Studio.

The collection also presented classic summer pieces – bright, exuberant floral dresses, tailored shorts and draped pieces presented with jackets and scarves for an achievable day look, or teamed with gorgeous heels, bags and fascinators to take your outfit into the evening.

It was easy to see that the atmosphere of the event influenced the guests; people headed off into the night to the Bangalore Polo club where the festivities continued and spirits were high. We left with a sense of inspiration and refreshment, ready for the good weather and amazing fashion that was to come. The event encapsulated the ideologies of spring, of new beginnings, presented through fashion, which couldn’t have come at a better time for the Garden City.

By Jessica Tappenden, September 2010
Photography Samantha Key