HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT IND 179 APRIL 2025 | Page 12

LIFE & STYLE

A feast of Asian fashion for the Hawkesbury

by Greg Martin
Another major runway event is coming to Richmond. But fear not, dear readers— this one does not involve additional noisy flights over Hawkesbury and its surrounds!
This spectacular runway will be set up at Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury, which will host the inaugural Asian Fashion Festival on 18 May. The following day, the event will ascend to even greater heights at the stunning Blue Mountains Botanic Garden in Mount Tomah. Both events closely follow Australian Fashion Week, which takes place at Carriageworks, within the revitalised Eveleigh Railway Workshops complex, from 12 – 16 May.
This groundbreaking festival aims to celebrate multicultural fashion, sustainability, and creativity while providing a vibrant platform for designers and models from diverse backgrounds.
Hawkesbury City Council is proudly supporting the event as a sponsor.
The two showcases will feature exclusive runway presentations, designer exhibits, and workshops exploring both global fashion trends and ethical fashion practices.
The aptly named Lovely Bandal, CEO of the event’ s producers, Regal Star Fashions, emphasised the festival’ s commitment to promoting diversity and innovation in fashion.“ We have invited designers from across Australia to participate, including renowned labels such as Marissa O’ Donnell, Mr Ginoo, and KOVR. This event presents a unique opportunity for them to showcase their collections,” Ms Bandal said.
“ Not only will designers present their work on the runway, but they will also engage with industry experts
through interactive sessions focused on sustainability and fashion innovation.
“ These workshops will provide valuable insights into the future of fashion and how we can work collectively towards a more sustainable industry.”
Organisers are also delighted to have secured highly respected MGM Studios casting director and feature film consultant, Paul Weber, for the event.
This exclusive session, scheduled for 17 May from 10am to 11am at Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury, is a special privilege for VIP attendees, fashion designers, and emerging talents eager to gain insights from one of the industry’ s leading figures.
“ We are also offering participating designers the opportunity to set up a booth at the Blue Mountains event, allowing them to showcase and sell their designs directly to attendees and the public,” Ms Bandal added.

Feeling peckish?

Satisfy your appetite with breakfast, lunch or dinner at The Fiddler.
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A Child’ s Learning Centre
Care hours 6.30am to 6.30pm Open 49 weeks of the year Care from birth to 6 years Nutritious meals prepared daily Pre school transition programs Qualified and experienced staff Special needs catered for All daily needs supplied Community based non-profit centre Established in 1989
69 Andrew Thompson Drive, McGraths Hill Phone 4587 7141 admin @ mcgrathshillchildrenscentre. com. au
12 ISSUE 179 // APRIL 2025 theindependentmagazine. com. au THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT