AS part of Fashion Fest 2016 Derry City and Strabane District Council have joined forces with industry leaders including Edward Shanahan, Chairperson of Irish Fashion Designers and Deirdre McQuillan, Fashion Editor of the Irish Times to bring you the ‘Design Showcase 2016’ and are now looking for designers to apply to take part!
The festival will run from the 18th until the 20th of November and will feature special offers, live fashion events and in-store activities that are not to be missed by fashion lovers, especially if you like keeping up to date with current and upcoming trends.
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Hilary McClintock said,
‘We are looking for the most exciting and emerging designers to join us at the Design Showcase and aim to provide them with the opportunity to establish connections with key independent retail buyers from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
‘Our Council area is brimming with talented creative people starting to get noticed on the fashion world’s radar. We already have a fantastic network of designers and retailers dedicated to supporting and promoting the local fashion industry.
“This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to get into the industry to get their work noticed and learn from the industries best.’
Louise Breslin, Programme Manager at Derry City and Strabane District Council added,
‘Council’s Business Development Bursary of £1,000 will be awarded to the most innovative collection at the Design Showcase Exhibition in the Guildhall on Friday 18th November.
“All finalists will receive special award certificates to display on their stands and retain for their portfolios.
“Participants will also be in with the chance of participating in an exclusive photo-shoot with a high profile fashion photographer based in Dublin on 26th October.
Designers intending to apply should be available on14th October for a Competitive Selection Event at Fashion & Design Hub, Shipquay Street and finalists will have their work presented at Design Showcase on Friday 18th November at the Guildhall.
The Design Showcase and presentation will be attended by industry expert Deirdre McQuillan and key retail buyers from across Ireland.
Designers interested in taking part in Design Showcase should email [email protected] before the closing date for entries which is Friday 7th October.