Insidious Fix sets high Fashion Week standard

An outfit by Insidious Fix

International buyers and media were whisked across Auckland to a secret site in 31 multi-coloured Mini Coopers today for an impressive opener of New Zealand Fashion Week.

The convoy drove from Auckland's Viaduct Basin to One Tree Hill where overseas visitors enjoyed the view and pointed at the lambs, before being driven to the Auckland Showgrounds for an invitation-only, darkly-lit catwalk show by Auckland label Insidious Fix.

It was a powerful opener for the domestic and international visitors in town to sample the best of New Zealand's fashion design.

Back at Auckland's Viaduct Marine Village where the main shows began, members of the public jostled for seats, fanning themselves in the rising temperatures in the event marquee.

Today's catwalk shows included RGC, Cybele, Ink'd, Barbara Lee and Caroline Moore.

The much anticipated Breakthrough Show introduced four up-and-coming New Zealand designers appearing at Fashion Week for the first time; Lonely Hearts Club, Michael Pattison, Widdess and Rayma.

Fashion Week was no place for men to wear conventional suits it seemed.

Auckland Mayor Dick Hubbard officially opened Air New Zealand Fashion Week last night, dressed in an outfit by student designer Bevan Avery.

Mr Hubbard said at last year's show he was described as wearing a "dull and uninteresting suit".

"So this year I've gone outside my comfort zone from high fibre to high fashion."

Mr Hubbard wore a white pirate's shirt with a fitting cropped vest and tailored pants.

Progressive Party leader Jim Anderton then apologised for wearing a "boring suit".

He said he had been on his way to a golfing cup in Christchurch when Prime Minister Helen Clark told him to take her place at the official opening of Fashion Week.

Mr Anderton said he was surprised when he arrived outside the event and drove through an anti-fur protest group, demonstrating against the use of possum fur in garments.

"I thought 'My God, we've only just formed the Government'. Then I realised they're protesting against possum fur -- and we're trying to get rid of the bloody things," he said, sending laughter through the audience.

Two Fashion Week export awards were presented last night to established label Zambesi and up-and-coming menswear exporter Murray Crane of Crane Brother and Little Brother labels.

Zambesi won a $32,000 travel prize, and Crane won $16,000 for international travel to boost their export business and international profile.

Air New Zealand Fashion Week runs until Friday at Auckland's Viaduct Marine Village.

- NZPA