Hokonui Fashion Design Awards in Gore in New Zealand

“Not only have we received a record number of entries and garments, but they’ve come from Northland to Southland and we’ve even received one from an ex-Southlander now living in Japan,” she said.

The approximately 215 entrants range from primary school, secondary school and design school students through to enthusiastic and talented designers of all ages.

Mr Paterson said once again the Steampunk section had a strong number of entries of amazingly detailed design that would no doubt prove popular with the audience.

“The Denim section has some incredible pieces, while other sections feature all manner of materials including leather and plastic,” she said.

Wool has proven popular with many entrants, with outstanding design skills and techniques used to create some stunning garments.

Ms Paterson said the judges’ task of selecting the final 200 garments to make the catwalk would be “very difficult” this year and would take a considerable amount of time. Those that make the Awards finals will be vying for their slice of the $34,000 prize fund on offer, with the overall winner taking away a prize package of around $12,000.

With Saturday night’s Gala Awards all but sold out ,members of the public who want to view the entries in the 2012 Hokonui Fashion Design Awards can still get tickets for the Friday evening ‘Strictly Design’ show.

Ms Paterson said there was “something for everyone” at this year’s Awards.

“Some of the designs are very wearable, but other garments are pushing the boundaries,” she said.

“That’s what the Awards are all about; giving people the opportunity to express their creativity”.

Hokonui Fashion Design Awards