Warehouse fills for fashion-fest

A close-up view of the styles for those in the front seats at the opening of the Fashion Festival last night. Photo / Steven McNicholl

New Zealand's top designers showed off their autumn/winter collections at the inaugural New Zealand Fashion Festival last night, before this weekend's "garage sale" of designer bargains.

More than 1200 guests packed into an Auckland warehouse for the show to view pieces from designers including Annah Stretton, Kate Sylvester, Paula Ryan, Trelise Cooper, Yvonne Bennetti and Zambesi.

Festival co-owner Myken Stewart said the Wellesley St show had sold out.

"The reaction is great. People really want this festival to succeed and a sold-out show is a great way to start. Next year will be a much bigger festival, with shows, parties, exhibitions and even an international business seminar."

Those who missed the show can still make The New Zealand Herald Designer Garage Sale on Saturday and Sunday.

The Viaduct Harbour's Marine Village will host a sale of stock from more than 30 designers.

Designer Garage Sale spokesman Paul Blomfield said about $1 million worth of stock would be on sale.

"As the event approaches we're getting more designers calling to be part of the sale, and hits on the websites and blog are growing each day."

Designers include Ruby, Ed Hardy, Chaos & Harmony, Lonely Hearts, Sabatini, Michael Pattison, State of Grace, Federation, Worldwear and Kagi.

Garage Sale

* For a full list of labels see designergaragesale.co.nz

* Tickets can be bought through www.iticket.co.nz and at the door for $10 for one day or $15 for the weekend.

* The show goes from 10am to 6pm on Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday.

- STAFF REPORTER