The Duchess of Cambridge with Karen Walker and Tukua Turia. Photo / Getty Images
The Duchess of Cambridge with Karen Walker and Tukua Turia. Photo / Getty Images
New Zealand fashion designer Karen Walker has found herself brushing shoulders with Kate Middleton at Buckingham Palace.
Walker was invited to represent New Zealand for the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange, a new creative initiative between 53 countries established to showcase artisan fashion and put a focus on sustainability in the industry.
The Kiwi designer presented a formal tivaivai gown, a collaboration with Māmā Tukua Turia and craftswomen from the Cook Islands, the Kūki 'Airani Creative Māmās who are based in Māngere, Auckland.
The Kūki 'Airani Creative Māmās pose with their design. Photo / Supplied
According to a spokesperson for Walker, Middleton was very impressed and noted the beautiful embroidery on the dress, which features a complex bow, pleated bodice and a dramatic floor-length skirt crafted from Italian wool in a soft shade of pink.
The gown was made out of Italian wool flannel. Photo / Getty Images
Walker and 73-year-old Māmā Tukua Turia were joined by some of the biggest names in fashion including Stella McCartney, Naomi Campbell and Vogue editor Anna Wintour.
It's an experience Walker is flagging as a career highlight: "Being part of such a significant project has been a really special experience for me and seeing all the designs together at Buckingham Palace, alongside my new lifelong friend Tukua, was the icing on the cake.
Māmā Tukua Turia and Karen Walker. Photo / Supplied
"This collaboration is one of my career highlights and I'm so proud to have represented New Zealand and worked with Tukua's beautiful tivaivai skills in this way."
Māmā Tukua Turia and Karen Walker at Buckingham Palace. Photos / Supplied, Karen Walker
The reception was hosted by Kate Middleton and Sophie, Countess of Wessex and coincided with London Fashion Week.
