NZFW: Walk The Line

Briar's winning NZFW look

Since I last spoke with student designer Briar Turner seen here she showed at NZFW's Walk The Line show and was subsequently awarded first prize in the high fashion category. I caught up with Briar post-show to talk about her winning look and last minute hitches.

How does it feel to have won first prize in the high fashion category at the 2011 Walk The Line show?

I was very surprised and excited to win first prize in the high fashion category! I was not expecting it. I went into the competition looking at it more as an experience being a part of Fashion Week, not as something that I was wanting to win. So it was just an added honour really.

What did you win?

For my prize I won a $250 voucher for Westfield and an article in Print magazine.

How would you describe your winning design?

A cropped floaty top made of a wine coloured silk georgette, with short bell type sleeves and structured shoulder pads affixed with bronze detailing on them, and a chunky zip at the back. Paired with high waisted shorts made of a vintage floral fabric with big scalloped edging at the bottom of the shorts.  

 

Briar with a model wearing her award winning design

Who were the judges?

There were guest designers as judges and fashion industry representatives like Tina Moore, editor of Remix magazine and Julie Ralston, social media manager for New Zealand Fashion Week.

What was the feedback from the media and audience?

My sister Georgia was actually photographing the show and apparently the other photographers she was working with really enjoyed the winning look I had created. They thought it was a mature and sophisticated design, so that was a great complement for me! The audience also seemed to really love the overall show as well.

Were there any last-minute hitches?

My model and I planed to get her hair and makeup done as late as we could to ensure it was fresh for the long wait and then finally the show...However this took longer then we planed so it was a little stressful, but thankfully we did finish in time to even do some last minute runway practices and feel confident and ready for the show.
 

What went through your mind when you saw your designs come down the runway?

I was really excited and very pleased with the overall look. It is a proud moment when you do see your own work come down a catwalk.

Photos courtesy of Georgi Turner