KEY POINTS:
Fashion Week is coming to a computer near you.
The seventh annual event has not grown in size this year - a deliberate move by organiser Pieter Stewart - but it will be accessible to an international audience.
As a trade event, Fashion Week has always been closed to the public, but this year fashion followers can view the trends on desktop television.
More than 50 designers will showcase their talents at Fashion Week, being held at the Viaduct Harbour Marine Village from September 16 to 22.
The event is expected to contribute more than $23 million to the New Zealand economy.
The week will also be open for the first time to Australian designers.
"We've had a lot of consistent interest and inquiries from Australia for several years," said Ms Stewart.
"We're also partnering with desktop television and all the shows will be available for download everywhere - in homes and offices around the world."
Several leading New Zealand designers, including Trelise Cooper, Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester and NOM*D, will be making repeat appearances in Fashion Week.
Established label Ricochet will make its debut, as will emerging brands Chelsea Thorpe, Lonely Hearts Club, Love Lies Bleeding and others.
"It's always good to have new designers come into Fashion Week," said Ms Stewart. "That freshness is really important.
"While the established designers are a drawcard, buyers are always looking to the next new one as well."
Other developments include an expanded public programme - New Zealand Fashion Week 4 U - which will now run for two days, and a specialised beauty zone.
