The second year of New Zealand Fashion Week wound up last night with a public showing of winter wear 2003 and the Wrapped party, after three days of invitation-only shows, generated the sort of buzz publicists dream of.
The trick will be to keep the overseas media, buyers and celebrity guests
coming to the L'Oreal-sponsored event.
"I was proud last year and even prouder this year," says organiser Pieter Stewart. "The designers really lifted their game."
She is already looking ahead to next year.
For Trade New Zealand and Industry New Zealand which backed the week, the decision on further support will depend on how much the week contributes to the local industry's overseas profile and export returns.
Both organisations are positive. Judging by audience reaction and in-chat from designers, they too are happy.
Trade NZ's Australian commissioner, Tui Te Hau, said that by mid-week buyers were telling her they had blown their budgets.
Knitwear led by Sabatini, Dot.com and Mildred, and some of the more savvy commercial ranges which offered less-fresh ideas, appealed to the Australians.
The English and American buyers and star stylist Rebecca Weinberg looked more to the cutting edge.
Established names Zambesi, World and Trelise Cooper staged the biggest theatrical shows. A lower-key assured approach came from Carlson and Kate Sylvester. Nom D's off-site show was also a standout.
Emerging designers were a mixed bag.
The Times' fashion guru, Colin McDowell, hailed Zambesi's distinctive designs and World's "well styled sophisticated show".
He liked the lean knits and said this country could "become known as the place you go for really good directional knitwear".
* For the inside story on Fashion Week and more pictures - Viva on Wednesday
