Belfast FASHIONWEEK SS13 Returns Full Bloom

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Image: Stephen Potter

The rain may have reared its ugly head once again, displaying the Autumn/Winter blues across the province, but one thing with a clear Spring/Summer agenda in mind is Belfast’s West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK. Returning for its fifteenth season full of the joys of spring despite the unflattering weather outside. 
Launching into full campaign mode on the tropical grounds of Botanic Gardens as guests and press alike were treated to a continental breakfast, before models took to the stage in florals, nudes and fluorescents in the modern foyer of the Ulster Museum. Which just so happens to be FASHIONWEEK’s new home as the historic building’s contemporary and minimalist atrium will be transformed into a fashion haven as hundreds of fashion fans gather in March to celebrate all things style. 
The venue may have changed, but the format is the same with designers and high street hotspots alike taking to the catwalk showcasing their latest offerings for the coming months ahead. Featuring the very best in Spring/Summer 2013 trends in the process.
FASHIONWEEK director Cathy Martin said, “Once again, we will be showcasing all the key collections from the high street as well as the finest established and up-and-coming local designers from all over Northern Ireland to create an exciting first glance at all the latest trends.” She added: “Key looks this season include pretty pastels, striking stripes, flirty florals and eye catching graphic prints.  In terms of colour it’s all about the bright neons, monochrome and also white and neutrals are big for spring/summer too.” Taking key themes of major focus from last year’s Spring/Summer show and indeed the more recent Autumn/Winter showcase and illustrating a transitional effect on how to adopt them easily into one’s everyday Spring/Summer wardrobe for 2013. Key themes being monochrome which is a strong, confident, recurring element throughout all major catwalk shows both international and local right now. Even doing the rounds on the recent Menswear displays of London Collections and Milan’s Men’s Fashionweek. Floral prints are naturally an on-going trend, whilst neon colour blocking takes shape as a statement look of high fashion consistency before nude, natural, hedonistic shades tone it down complete with embellished detailing to add a luxury appeal. All illustrated exceptionally at today’s launch via six stunning female models rocking such looks from the likes of Debenhams, Miss Selfridges, Dorothy Perkins, Quiz and Warehouse with designers Ruedi Maguire, Una Rodden and Grainne Maher bringing up the rear on the designer front. 

Dress by Ruedi Maguire. Image: Stephen Potter

Of course no catwalk look is complete without equally credible catwalk ready hair provided by Fashionweek favourite Andrew Mulvenna. “In terms of hairstyles for this season I’m looking forward to showing off some gorgeous looks and will be experimenting with texture and volume to create a mixture of commercial and high fashion runway hair. Deep side partings, low ponytails, 60s beehives and controlled waves are all big looks for hair this spring/summer, giving an urban but easily managed edge to your look.” 
Once again I will personally be looking forward immensely to the Designer Night as established designers Lisa McCabe and Una Rodden make their Fashionweek return alongside IN! Magazine’s Breakthrough Designer of the Year Ruedi Maguire and the renowned, award winning Pluck and Devour’s Grainne Maher as she presents her avant garde, high fashion millinery and accessories range. 
Belfast Fashionweek’s magic kicks off in March. The local designer/boutique night is scheduled for Friday March 22. Tickets for the main catwalk shows (priced £20) are available from the Belfast Welcome Centre Box Office on 02890246609 or online via the links on www.belfastfashionweek.com