When the call came in that I was to MC this prestigious event, the first of it's kind, I had a few misgivings. Not least of all was the 'no alcohol until after the show' clause!

Still, it did mean I was able to see clearly and, quite importantly, speak.

Needless to say I wasn't the only media celeb present and I was happy to share the spotlight with:
Helene Ravlich (Herald On Sunday), Michelle Bethell (North Shore Times), Lauren Mentjox (The Aucklander), Debbie Holmes (Max Magazine) and the About Town crew (Sunday Star-Times).

A big shout out to them for supporting local fashion and events, and a big hug to Helene for not delving too deeply into model Pip's little adventure!

BUT on to the Soiree itself.
The two fashion labels, Barkers and Max, were showing their new season ranges; casual, dress wear and suits, with shoes for the men supplied by Overland. The venue was the tres chic Blankenberge Belgian Beer Cafe on Takpauna's uber-trendee Hurstmere Road.

The look this summer?
Colour is the new black with bright pinks (salmon for those blokes who don't do pink), turquoise, lime and mauve; stripes, checks, printed T's and plenty of texture.

Cotton is the 'it' fabric, some mixed with silk and cashmere for a softer look and feel. Yes, boys, it's all about letting the garment show the emotion!

The famous Barkers polo is also back, re-cut and styled a-fresh for 2006.

Barkers suits are available as the classic two button jacket or the mo' stylin' three button look with flat front or single pleated trouser. The shirt can be left open and hanging out or accessorise with a plain or multi stripe tie from the Barkers range.

As for the chix, MAX are out to 'Keep NZ Beautiful' this summer with a diverse range of styles and fabrics that can be layered or mixed up. Wide belts, hats and colourful strappy shoes are the add-ons du jour.

The cow-girl still gets a look in but the Force is strongest with Hippy Chic this summer Obi Wan.

Kiwi DJ supreme, Leighton, spun up a storm on the decks and Will Martin provided half time entertainment.

The show was produced by Stuart Williamson (Manager - Barkers Shore City) and Georgina McIvor (Manager - MAX Shore City).

 

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More Models Doing What they Do
(What do they do...?)

And then there were the people who turned out
(Over 300 of them!)

VISIT SPONSOR WEBSITES
Barkers Mens Clothing
MAX Fashions
OVERLAND SHOES
Blankenberge Belgian Beer Cafe Takapuna
Schwarzkopf Professional
Elizabeth Arden
Les Mills Takapuna
Groove Merchants
Westfield Shore City Mall