Newcomers join favourites and big names to get Fashion Week rolling

Most of the big names are returning to the catwalk for New Zealand Fashion Week, although World's theatrical presence will be noticeably absent this year.

Drawcard designers including Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, Nom*D, Trelise Cooper, and Zambesi are returning, while World and Sabatini, both known for their stand-out shows, will be absent for the first time since fashion week started four years ago.

World's Denise L'Estrange-Corbet, said: "We are showing the range in Paris in early October and at Melbourne Fashion Week in late October.

"We are also opening a new store in Sydney, and moving our workroom all at the same time. Our decision not to show has not been one we have taken lightly."

Dunedin designer Tanya Carlson's arresting catwalk presence will also be missed.

More than 44 labels showing at the Air New Zealand-sponsored event, which will take place at Auckland's Viaduct Harbour Marine Village from October 18-21, were named last night.

Hong Kong-based New Zealander Yvonne Murphy's label Yvonne Bennetti is expected to impress the international media and buyers.

A dozen labels that have not shown previously are in the lineup, including talented Wellington designer Deborah Sweeney and Auckland label Widdess.

Labels singled out for praise last year, Hailwood and Angeline Harrington, are coming back, as is Workshop, Helen Cherry, and Workshop Denim.

Murray Crane's Little Brother menswear label is making it official this year, after staging an off-schedule show last year.

Pearl, sophisticated newcomers to the group show last year, are showing a solo collection.