A stunning day down in Hamilton for their arts festival’s stylish highlight: Couture in the Gardens, featuring fashion designer and Waikato resident Jacqueline Anne Atelier’s designs set amongst the fountains in the grand courtyard at the Italian Renaissance Garden. Part of Hamilton Arts Festival Toi Ora Ki Kirikiriroa 2025, the ticketed fashion show ($20 to VIP $149) made for a fabulous day out for both those living nearby and those of us who drove down and back on the day to enjoy the spectacle. It was beautifully executed, so well done to all who put in countless hours of preparation for a beautiful event. The venue itself was fifty percent of the vibe and added a next-level couture atmosphere to the garments.
After a welcome and entertainment from a live singer, the fashion show presentation began. The show was divided into two sections – ready-to-wear and evening wear – with an overarching floral theme that had the gardens coming to life in front of us.
Botanical highlights included a dandelion headpiece, a lilac evening gown with an oversized purple pansy on the waist, kowhai yellow blossoms on a trouser suit, and others blooming with roses, lillies, bird of paradise and carnations.
The garden really was the perfect picturesque setting for such an avant-garde(n) collection.
Below: photos from Couture in the Gardens 2025. Garments were complemented by custom headwear created by milliner Mel Atherious; hair styled by a team lead by Toni and Guy’s Bronwyn Kronfeld, the recent recipient of New Zealand Professional Hair Educator of the year. The make-up team was led by Hannah Vassallo, the make-up sponsor Max and Louie, and nail art by the Art of Nails.
Photos on location by Megan Robinson, March 2025.