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.
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.
