After more than 50 events celebrating fashion, in the heart of Winchester the catwalk show was the perfect end.
The catwalk finale (Image: Stuart Martin)
Brought to the stage thanks to the fantastic efforts of Winchester BID and the university, the finale saw a mix of Winchester clothing brands, including chains and independents, show off what they’ve got.
What I loved was that the clothing wasn’t unattainable, it wasn’t all completely bonkers like some of the fashion shows I imagine. It was your Sunday knitwear and pyjamas to elegant yet modern wedding options and even ski outfits.
Models rocking the catwalk in pj’s (Image: Stuart Martin)
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I had a great view of the stage, at the end of the catwalk – in the prime position to see the models’ finishing poses. Although, I could not stop wondering what the VIPs in the front row got in their exclusive bags.
The event was opened with an electric dance routine by one of the university students and models before flowing straight into the catwalk.
The show was incredibly fast-paced, which was great for someone like me with a short attention span, switching between the different brands nice and swiftly.
@hampshire_chronicle Come with us to the catwalk finale of Winchester Fashion Week. #WinchesterFashionWeek #Catwalk #WinchesterBID ♬ Funk Hip Hop Music(814197) – Pavel
Among the Winchester independents was re:dress, a pre-loved fashion store which celebrated 20 years in the city earlier this year.
Other brands celebrating anniversaries included Rawlings Opticians, which is marking 100 years in Winchester High Street, and Crew Clothing which turns 30 this year.
Rawlings glasses (Image: Stuart Martin)
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It was really nice to see chain shops and independents working together and elevating one another. I particularly enjoyed the collaboration between Phase Eight and Winchester’s newest independent Suave Owl who put together a quirky selection of bride and groom outfits.
Phase Eight and Suave Owl collaboration (Image: Stuart Martin)
The makeup by Peter Symonds students and hair styling by ME Collective should not go without a mention, with all the models looking beautiful but not detracting from the main event which was of course was the clothes and accessories.
Mountain Warehouse was a great addition to the line-up to show some more active options, which would be great for exploring the Winchester countryside. Although fun to watch I’m not sure I will be tempted by their skiwear.
The child models were a definite audience favourite, as they strutted the catwalk for brands like Primark, receiving the biggest applause of the night.
Hampshire Wardrobe was a marvel with its extensive selection of costumes and masks, which was a wonderful way to finish.
Winchester BID did a tremendous job of putting the show and the whole Winchester Fashion Week together, especially in the absence of BID manager Sarah Davis.
If you haven’t been already, it’s definitely one to remember for next year.