From a small idea that started seven years ago to an amazing showcase of young emerging talent, the Hawaiian Emerging Designer component of the STYLEAID parade has evolved into a breathtaking event in its own right.

Each year the event organisers call for expressions of interest from new local designers launching their first or second ranges. This year was no exception with over 25 hopefuls putting forward their latest ranges for consideration.

- Advertisement -

After a comprehensive culling process, nine designers were short-listed and invited to present their ranges to the STYLEAID panel, which consisted of event parade producer Aly May, past emerging designer participants Marie Mazzurra and Daniel James from the very successful label One Fell Swoop and event manager Mark Reid. The panel then chose the five designers who would get to show their wares at STYLEAID.

The selection process involved perusing look books, talking to the designers about the inspirations behind their upcoming spring/summer ranges and evaluating some pieces of their work. The panel also had a chance to discuss with the designers how their ranges would transfer to the catwalk and what sort of styling and impact they could bring to the process. After four intense hours, the final five were chosen… This year’s STYLEAID will see Alister Yiap, CH by Carly Hunter, Of Cabbages & Kings, S2 and Lincoln by Lincoln Ferguson all present their spring/summer ranges stage to the 750 guests at STYLEAID Renaissance.

With the chosen five, it was time for the photo shoot that would highlight the individual designers and the diversity in the five ranges. (Behind the scene pictures are included here to give readers a sneak peek.)

Each of the five emerging designers will have the chance to showcase ten pieces from their range, and this year the diverse styles chosen will certainly make a splash. Alister Yiap designs some of the most exquisite jewellery, whilst Carly Hunter creates truly feminine pieces that have an edge to them. Kira and Tane from Of Cabbages and Kings stunned and excited the judges with their wares; Chrissie Catling of S2 has produced a range that really explores what it is to be a woman; and Lincoln Ferguson has crafted intimate apparel for both men and women that breathes new life into this facet of design.

Add to the excitement on the catwalk, the signing of Hawaiian as the emerging designer sponsor for the parade and you have a complete picture of what will be one of the highlights for 2008!

And so, once again the catwalk in August will be filled with some of the most exciting new talent that Perth has to offer, proving that here in WA we really are taking centre stage!