IT’S time to start catching up on the latest seasonal trends as the much anticipated Fashion Fest 2015 launches today, with an exciting new three day programme (12-14 November 2015) showcasing the latest in cutting edge design and local trends.
The city’s own first lady of fashion, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Elisha McCallion, brought some of her personal flair to the special launch in Guildhall Square.
Speaking from the launch she said: “I am delighted to see the return of Fashion Fest, which has already established itself as one of the city’s top cultural events.
“Last year’s programme was a real success attracting talent from across the country who found the perfect platform to showcase their work, and forging new links between creative talents from both sides of the border.
“Derry is really beginning to establish a name for itself in the fashion world, and with centres such as the Fashion and Textile Design Hub providing support for emerging new designers we really have the potential to make the city the fashion capital of the North.”
Business Opportunities Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Louise Breslin, has been working with local designers and retailers to put the final touches to the programme.
“This is our second Fashion Fest event and I’m delighted that we have established such a fantastic network of designers and retailers dedicated to supporting and promoting the local fashion industry through the programme.
“This year we have some really inspirational designers taking part, and we will be announcing further details of this exciting programme over the coming weeks.
“I want to encourage as many local businesses as possible to take part, and to look at ways they can engage with the festival and the growing focus on the local fashion industry.”
This year’s events include a special Designer Trade Exhibition which will allow exclusive retailers the opportunity to purchase the work of up and coming designers from their unique collections.
Budding young designers will also have the opportunity to get creative through the Fashion Fest Schools Programme, in particular St Joseph’s Boys School who are hoping to pick up some top tips in Junk Kouture ahead of their entry in the JK Recycled Competition.
For those who enjoy the glamour of the catwalk there will be a stunning Gala Fashion Show in St Columb’s Hall featuring a glittering array of style from a host of designers the High Street and independent retailers.
During the festival local retailers will also be throwing open their doors with plenty of in store promo opportunities for savvy local shoppers hoping to bag a bargain.
To find out more about the programme and to book tickets for the Gala Catwalk event on Saturday 14th November go to www.derrystrabane.com/fashionfest
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