GLITZ and glamour is set to hit the North West next week as some of the biggest names in Irish design and a new wave of emerging designers take over the renowned Guildhall and exquisite Bishop’s Gate Hotel in a three day festival of fashion.
‘Fashion Fest 2016’ which is organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council, will take place from 18th until 20th November and will feature some of this season’s biggest trends and cutting edge designs. It also provides a number of specially tailored workshops for those involved in the fashion industry.
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Hilary McClintock speaking ahead of the event said
‘This is three days of fashion joy and a must for fashion lovers and those working within the industry.
‘I’m delighted we have high profile fashion experts such as designer Jen Kelly, Eddie Shanahan, Chairperson of the Council of Irish Fashion Designers and Deirdre McQuillan, Fashion Editor of the Irish Times involved in the programme and of course our talented local designers who will be showcasing their work.
“With opportunities throughout the three day event for retailers, designers, buyers and fashionistas, I’m certain everyone will enjoy it.’
Tara Nicholas, Business Officer at Derry City and Strabane District Council added, ‘If you haven’t already, check out Council’s website for everything that is going on over the festival.
“We have haute couture designer Jen Kelly amongst the leading stars of Irish fashion – Una Rodden, Sara O’Neill and Lynsey McGarrigle at the Saturday evening fashion show – produced and choreographed by Tracey Hall from the Style Academy in Belfast, it’ll be hosted by Q Radio’s Stephen Clements and Kate Conway.
“Also on the programme is a retail workshops and the opportunity for upcoming designers to win a Council Business Development Bursary of £1,000.
“This will be awarded to the most innovative collection following a display of their works to judges on the catwalk at the Design Showcase Exhibition with Eddie Shanahan and Deirdre McQuillan on the Friday evening.
By Sunday it’ll be time to relax in the stunning Bishop’s Gate Hotel who shall be hosting a round table High Fashion Afternoon Tea where you can view cutting edge collections from some of the North Wests top independent boutiques while enjoying some bubbly and melt in the mouth patisseries.’
Further details on all the Fashion Fest events, ticket prices and how to get tickets is available at www.derrystrabane.com/fashionfest or by telephoning the Fashion Fest team on telephone: 028 7137 6506.
As tickets are limited and selling fast, advance purchase is advised.
