The countdown is on for New Zealand Fashion Week but one notable name will be missing this year when models take to the catwalk in Auckland from August 24-30.
As leading international fashion buyers and writers get set to travel our way, Spy can today reveal that Dame Trelise Cooper will be one notable absentee.
Spy understands Dame Trelise will be enjoying a break in the South of France when some of our hottest models unveil the creations of our top designers.
Kate Sylvester is set to take her crown as the Mercedes-Benz Presents Designer of 2015/2016.
Two weeks before NZFW she will end the Marr Collection shows at Golden Dawn on Sunday August 16th. Also showing earlier that week are Karen Walker, NOM*d, Zambesi and Workshop and Helen Cherry.
Dame Trelise's absence will give some of the new guard of the New Zealand fashion industry their chance to shine.
Project Runway season 13 winner showing at NZFW
Sean Kelly will show Kiwis how it is done in New York and why the Americans love him.
Kelly told Spy: "Being on Project Runway was an amazing experience and a career-defining one.
"In this industry, nothing is handed to you, so it's about making the most of your opportunities and not giving up. Having volunteered at NZFW in 2001 it's now incredibly exciting to be part of such an important event with my own show."
Another up and coming young designer who is showing in New Zealand for the first time is Lucilla Gray. Fashion experts tell Spy Gray is about to become an international sensation and is already gaining traction in Europe.
Kiwi fashion designer Sean Kelly. Photo / Doug Sherring
And rounding out the first timers are Madeleine Harman and Jessica Grubisa, the design duo behind Harman Grubisa, an emerging label.
As for the all-important front row, apparently there's a good chance we'll see a few fashion-loving All Blacks as they are on a break week. And expect to see plenty of Art Green and the more stylish Bachelorettes.
Other stand-outs who would work well in the front row are Lorde and her fashion photographer fashion James Lowe. Likely front row telly folk include Samantha Hayes, Toni Street, Pippa Wetzell and Miriama Kamo.
Strike a pose!
Prospective catwalk stars will have their chance to nail a Fashion Week spot at a casting call for models on August 8.
As they prepare for their chance to shine, here are Spy's picks for potential head turners.
Amberley Colby: This will be Colby's second Fashion Week. Last year she booked a lot of shows, this year after a great Sydney Fashion Week, Colby will be on the runways again. Look out for her.
Juliette Perkins: Perkins was one of Sydney Fashion Week's stand-out stars. She has had an amazing year so far and will be one of the stars of the week for sure.
DJ (Djordje Petkovic): Was scouted on Instagram and since signing with Red 11 everyone wants to use him. Focusing on studies right now, DJ is also signed with international heavyweight IMG. He will be off overseas in the next few years and when he does, big things will happen.
Djordje Petkovic. Photo / Supplied
Ella Corbin: Walking the most shows of anyone last year, Corbin will be back this year to strut the runways again for the many designers who love her.
Saskia Anderson: After being scouted at the age of 11, Anderson is now eligible to walk in Fashion Week. Her natural beauty has ensured she has already had overwhelming interest from agencies in New York, Paris and London.
Sophia Frankish: Designers' favourite Frankish was born to be on the catwalk with her striking features and long legs. Frankish is also in hot demand for international representation and we predict she is likely to travel in the near future.
Fred Scahill: The handsome Scahill has been a local favourite for the past few seasons. Scahill has had catwalk success at Milan Fashion Week for labels such as Missoni and his experience shows.
