The Darnell Collection is Australia?s largest private collection of international vintage couture clothing and accessories. Fifteen stunning pieces including original items designed by Chanel and Dior in the 1960s will be shown on the catwalk, providing an unforgettable glimpse into a magic wardrobe every woman would love to own.
Charlotte Smith inherited the collection of over 3000 priceless pieces from her American godmother, Doris Darnell, in 2004. Smith realised the value of the collection when she discovered her godmothers book of stories including stories of the women who wore these treasures for the first time. The collection has grown to 5000 items.
Charlotte says: Inheriting the Darnell Collection has completely changed my life and to be invited as a guest of iD Dunedin Fashion Week is an exciting opportunity to take the collection internationally and add yet another story to this adventure. I love working with students and anyone fascinated by and passionate about fashion and recognise the importance of vintage clothing as educational and inspiring. The collection has brought my family full circle back to New Zealand, following in the footsteps of my great- great-grandfather, Sir Edward Stafford who was elected Prime Minister of New Zealand in the mid 1800s and helped establish the wool industry in New Zealand.
A guest lecture on the history of the Darnell Collection will also be given by Charlotte Smith, curator and author of Dreaming of Dior and Dreaming of Chanel, during iD Dunedin Fashion Week.
Watch out for further details of the 2011 iD Dunedin Fashion Week including special guest designers, judges, VIPs and events.
Tickets for key events during iD Dunedin Fashion Week are on sale now. Tickets are available at TicketDirect venues (including the Regent Theatre, Dunedin), Ph 0800 4 TICKET or online at www.ticketdirect.co.nz; a booking fee applies.
The iD International Emerging Designer Awards will take place on Thursday 7 April 2011, starting at 7pm. Front-row tickets $70, second row and raised seating $55, and tiered seating $40. Tickets include a show gift bag and programme. The event will be held at the Lion Foundation Arena, Edgar Stadium, Dunedin, in front of an audience of more than 1200. Doors will open at 6.15pm.
The 2011 iD Dunedin Fashion Show will take place on Friday 8 April and Saturday 9 April, starting at 8pm, in front of an audience of 1500 each evening. Front-row tickets $110, second row and front-row carriage $90, third row $75, fourth row and second-row carriage $65. Tickets include a complimentary drink, show gift bag and programme. Doors will open at 6.30pm.