New Zealand fashion designer Karen Walker has found herself brushing shoulders with Kate Middleton at Buckingham Palace.
Walker was invited to represent New Zealand for the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange, a new creative initiative between 53 countries established to showcase artisan fashion and put a focus on sustainability in the industry.
The Kiwi designer presented a formal tivaivai gown, a collaboration with Māmā Tukua Turia and craftswomen from the Cook Islands, the Kūki 'Airani Creative Māmās who are based in Māngere, Auckland.
![The Kūki 'Airani Creative Māmās pose with their design. Photo / Supplied](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/PCMZT4KFXSZDWIO4BMPG7TLAUM.jpg?auth=dbae6d0c248906262c6c65535d5cd367fa1f22b0e865b9d9217242444bdd5a17&width=16&height=11&quality=70&smart=true)
According to a spokesperson for Walker, Middleton was very impressed and noted the beautiful embroidery on the dress, which features a complex bow, pleated bodice and a dramatic floor-length skirt crafted from Italian wool in a soft shade of pink.