Spring has arrived early here in Brisbane with a colourful fashion display.Now in its fourth year, the Ravishing Fashionistas Fashion Show, chose a Spring theme for its latest gala event at Old Government House. Upma Kite and her team have once again continued to spread the message of female empowerment by encouraging women to embrace their bodies. This event promotes body confidence regardless of age, body type, background, skin colour and culture.
The night included a who’s who of Brisbane, including Councillor – Vicki Howard, Mr Hollywood in Oz – Damien Anthony Rossi, Fashion Designer – Deanne Mayocchi and Boutique Owner and Designer – Sarah Hutson from SFH designs, who all delighted in the diverse array of gorgeous models who showcased some stunning Spring fashion.This fashionable event proved that anyone can be a model in their own right.
Guests were greeted at the heritage columned entrance to Old Government House amidst elegantly lit cherry blossom trees. Exquisite flower filled media walls were a delight and some lucky VIP guests headed upstairs for a pre party event in QUT’s – Room Three Sixty, where they enjoyed champagne and canapés whilst soaking up the amazing city views.
As with the famous salons in Paris, the fashion parade weaved through the runway in the hallways of Old Government House and guests were treated to a range of Spring themed fashion from local emerging and established designers and milliners. These looks will inspire this Spring’s fashion trends, challenge boundaries and work towards breaking stereotypes in the fashion industry.
Alas I was away overseas for this year’s event, but looking through the photos I spied some of my favourites from Maiocchi, Moreno Marcos, SFH Designs, Anannasa and Czarina, plus many more. SheSociety loved the millinery looks from Mel at Flora Fascinata Millinery. The tireless Upma Kite, who has worked day and night in the lead up to the show was a vision in a colourful floral themed gown.
Upma’s vision was to create a space where women could embrace themselves no matter their age, size, background or ethnicity and this aim has been achieved by sharing the work of 12 designers on a total of 35 models in this year’s unforgettable show. This amazing feat could not have been achieved without Upma’s team of amazing volunteers who come from all walks of life and helped bring her vision to life.
After the success of this year’s sell out event Upma Kite and the Ravishing Fashionistas team are determined to continue their crusade to empower women and encourage us all to embrace our unique selves. I look forward to further events which help women celebrate their individuality and break the stereotypes. It is only through encouraging diversity and change within the fashion industry that we will break down barriers for years to come and fill women with a sense of confidence and empowerment. I look forward to what’s next from Upma Kite and the visionary team at Ravishing Fashionistas.
Michelle Beesley is a Brisbane born and bred former primary school teacher. A wife, proud grandma and mother of three grown sons, Michelle is thrilled to have recently published her debut contemporary romance novel, It Happened in Paris, with Serenade Publishing. Her novella – Escape to D’ Amour was published in 2019. Michelle’s work can be found in the anthologies – Destination Romance and Short & Sweet. When not reading or writing Michelle can be found at a coffee shop chatting with friends, front row at a fashion show, or beside a rugby union field cheering on her favourite teams.
Michelle is a reluctant traveller, Francophile, keen walker and avid yoga enthusiast plus a book, film and theatre lover who loves everything pink and sparkly (including champagne). You can find Michelle on instagram @michellebeesley_writer and her website: michellebeesley.com.
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