FASHION Fest 2018 is preparing to make its highly anticipated return this weekend, with event organisers Derry City & Strabane District Council guaranteeing ‘an unmissable night’ in the Guildhall today, Saturday, October 13.
A celebration of local design and entrepreneurship, Fashion Fest seeks to shine a light on the creative industries in the North West – as both established and emerging designers take to the stage to showcase their collections in a stunning catwalk show led by the team at Style Academy.
A great opportunity for fashion fans to mingle with industry insiders, the event will be co-hosted by Dylan Llewellyn (‘the wee English fella’ from Derry Girls) and Stephen Clements (from Q Radio) and will have an exciting finale from luxury brand Halfpenny London.
Indeed, the showcase event will dazzle audiences with an array of classic and contemporary couture, including a collection by celebrity stylist and esteemed fashion designer Kate Halfpenny who will be showing pieces from her bridal collection as well as her ‘Black Edit Collection’.
The festival will also feature fantastic performances by Irish singer / songwriter Emma Wallace and award-winning DJ Louise DaCosta, plus live sax accompaniment.
Encouraging people to come along to the Guildhall tonight, Mayor of Derry & Strabane District Council, Cllr John Boyle said:
“Fashion Fest has become a real highlight of Council’s events calendar, offering many opportunities for local designers to showcase their work alongside portfolios by some of the leading names in the industry.
“Derry’s long connection with the textile trade makes it the perfect location to develop a hub for designers and retailers to produce authentic and creative works inspired by our unique heritage and the long tradition of producing top quality apparel.
“Fashion Fest really is a glittering centrepiece – showcasing our local creativity and entrepreneurship and underlining that Derry & Strabane is open for business and an important hub for emerging talent.
“The festival will also provide a great opportunity for fashion enthusiasts to view the upcoming trends and meet designers – and I am confident this year’s event is going to be another huge success!”
Business Support Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Louise Breslin, said she is looking forward to another spectacular event on Saturday night.
“Today the iconic Guildhall’s Main Hall will be transformed for a glittering gala celebration as Fashion Fest 2018 serves up another tantalising taste of catwalk glamour” she said.
“This amazing event is the perfect platform for local designers to showcase their work alongside leading labels in the industry – and celebrates the emerging talent that is making the city’s name as an exciting new fashion hub.
“The Fashion Showcase event promises to be a night not to be missed where you can dress to impress and be part of a stylish celebration that will showcase the best in local fashion.
Derry teenager Lauren Burton is the face of Fashion Fest 2018
“I’d therefore encourage as many people as possible to come along and support our exceptionally gifted local designers by booking their tickets today!”
Tickets are priced at £15 (+booking fee) which includes a drink on arrival and an exclusive goody bag!
You can find out more about Fashion Fest and purchase tickets for the event at www.derrystrabane.com/fashionfest and Eventbrite.
Tickets can also be purchased from the Guildhall Reception in Derry and the Alley Theatre in Strabane.
You can also follow all the news for Fashion Fest 2018 on Instagram @fashionfestderry and on social media using the hash tag #fashionfestderry.
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