Tag Archives: FashFest

NUNIE … and Paula Ryan

She’s a fashion model, a fashion publisher, a fashion designer and a fashion icon. Paula Ryan is one of New Zealand’s hottest exports, and for the first time Canberrans will get to see her classy, stylish designs on the catwalk at FASHFEST.’

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Paula Ryan designs available from Nunie Canberra

Nunie, an upmarket women’s retail shop in Curtin (formerly in the Canberra Club Building), is presenting pieces from Paula Ryan’s spring-summer collection at FASHFEST on Friday night (29 September, show 2), alongside other amazing designers such as De Challie Haute Couture and independent designer Bianca Pavlic The Label. It’s going to be a cracker of a show.Paula Ryan 2

Owner of Nunie, Roxanne Ebina, has been providing quality fashion to Canberra women for years, and she’s thrilled to be showcasing Paula Ryan—in part because of the label’s superb quality and broad appeal. “Paula Ryan garments last forever and never go out of style,” says Roxanne. “We carry a solid range of her essentials and some gorgeous pieces from each of her seasonal collections, which never disappoint. With her garments, the magic is in the fabric. The label is about classic simplicity with stretch and style.”Paula Ryan (1)

After searching the world for the best natural fabrics that breathe, look fabulous and stand the test of time, Paula Ryan selected three—New Zealand Merino, Italian MicroModal, and Italian MicroJersey. “They’re colour fast, and Paula Ryan matches colours from one season to another, so it’s easy to build a versatile wardrobe with her pieces,” says Roxanne.

Essential pieces accommodate a range of body shapes. The snug slim fit is a signature. So too is the body-skimming easy fit for fuller figures. Singlets and camis are other must haves, as are pants, leggings, and a range of go-to dresses, skirts and tops. But it’s Paula Ryan’s seasonal collections that are most coveted by her fans around the world, and what Nunie will put on the catwalk at FASHFEST will be no exception.

This is Nunie’s first time participating in FASHFEST. “It’s a great event for Canberra because it gives local designers and retailers a chance to sign where they sell,” says Roxanne.Paula Ryan 4

FASHFEST’s opening night is less than two weeks away. Get the full program and buy tickets on the FASHFEST website. Tickets start at only $49 for assigned seating. FASHFEST 2017 runs from 28 – 30 September at the National Convention Centre, with two shows each night. And don’t forget the after parties at QT Hotel.

Steal the Thunder!

Let’s start with the facts. Women come in all shapes and sizes. All shapes and sizes. The pear shape is just as beautiful as any other and no one knows this better than Bronwynne Jones, who founded her own label catering to this target market last year.

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Bronwynne Jones – owner and designer Thunder Thighs

Thunder Thighs is about the shape, not about the size”, says Bronwynne. “I design from size 8 up, but in a way that complements women who are naturally smaller at the top and curvier at the bottom.”

Bronwynne is currently full steam ahead, cutting, sewing, fitting and fussing with models to get her first full collection on the catwalk at FASHFEST 2017. She’s excited but admits it hasn’t been entirely easy. “The FASHFEST model casting was an open one, but the fashion industry tends not to focus on true pear-shaped women,” says Bronwynne. “Not many modelling agencies have pear-shaped models on their books either.”

 

And the name? Doesn’t it just draw unfair attention to the unique body shape Bronwynne designs for? “I’m actually calling it for what it is and am proud of it,” says Bronwynne. “My clients don’t necessarily have a problem with their shape. They have a problem with not being able to find attractive clothing that works well on their bodies. It’s frustrating, and I know because I have thunder thighs. I want to design for this group of women and who they are, not what the fashion industry says they should be.”

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Thunder Thighs at CARDIF Collective Fashion in the Alley in April 2017

A self-taught designer, Bronwynne focuses on fitting, flattering and the body positive. She designs foundation (essential) pieces and pieces that add flair and sells through CARDIF Collective in Kingston. “My tops fit the bust line well and swing or float over the bottom,” says Bronwynne. “Cigarette pants and skirts fit at the waist and hips, and fall from the thighs. Short tailored jackets with a swing, not straight, work a treat too.” Since opening her label, Bronwynne has been thrilled to sell to women of other shapes who are attracted to her designs. “Many women can wear swing tops, for example,” says Bronwynne. “It’s a fabulous style that stands the test of time.”

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Thunder Thighs at Fashion in the Alley

For the FASHFEST catwalk, Bronwynne has designed pants, tops and jackets, some with sculptural elements. She’ll also present her popular ‘shirt front back top’ which features the front and optional collar from a recovered men’s shirt. Customers can help design their own top by selecting from Bronwynne’s impressive collection of quality men’s shirts or by bringing in a shirt owned by a loved one. Bronwynne will also feature her attractive infinity scarves created out of men’s vintage silk ties on the catwalk.

The designer is showcasing solid black and white, mono prints, and shades of pinks and purples. Sheer fabric will also make a grand entrance as will hand-crafted headpieces with colour and flair.

“It’s been a steep learning curve getting ready for FASHFEST,” says Bronwynne. “There’s so much to consider beside the garments. Hair, makeup, props, shoes, and with only a couple of weeks to go—it’s full on.”

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Model Swan Ricco (size 8 – 10) wears Thunder Thighs at Fashion in the Alley

FASHFEST is on from 28 to 30 September, at the National Convention Centre Canberra, with after parties at QT Canberra. Thunder Thighs proudly makes its appearance at FASHFEST on opening night, 28 September show 2, 9pm. FASHFEST tickets are available from the FASHFEST website and start at $49.

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Getting ready to walk-the-walk at Fashion in the Alley

Another First for FASHFEST!

Kid’s modelling auditions for FASHFEST will be held this Sunday, 10 September at Hotel QT Canberra from 2 – 5pm.

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FASHFEST 2016. Photo by Wearefoundau

Showcasing kids’ fashions from Braddon boutique Tip, You’re It!, and new kids’ label NOMIKO, over two shows on 28 and 30 September respectively.

FASHFEST is looking for around 20 children aged from 4 to 10 years who are confident enough to walk the long runway in front of a large audience with the background music and lighting that FASHFEST puts on.  At the audition, the kids will have their height measured, be allocated a number, and walk the runway a few times with the aim being fun for everyone. All children will be supported by FASHFEST volunteers.

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FASHFEST 2016. Photo by Anita Entriken

Kids selected will be required to attend dress rehearsals, attend a fitting by the designers, and be photographed and captured on video to be used on the FASHFEST website.

Registrations are essential, and you can register your child to audition via the FASHFEST website.

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FASHFEST 2016. Photo by Doug Hall

From Manuka to Milan

It’s a dream come true for any designer. Showcasing the garments they’ve poured their heart and soul into on the catwalk during the most prestigious fashion week in the world—Milan! And two FASHFEST designers have been selected to showcase their designs this year.

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Naomi Peris Bridal – FASHFEST 2016. Photo by wearefoundau

So it’s no wonder that Naomi Hogie, the designer behind Naomi Peris Bridal, is still pinching herself that she’ll soon be jetting off to Italy, as nervous as can be, to present her 2017 collection—Fairy Tale Princesses in the Amazon Jungle—to the international community. Then it’s back on the plane and straight into fittings for FASHFEST 2017, with Naomi’s stunning and unique designs sure to wow guests on closing night.

So how did it all happen?

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Naomi Peris. Photo by Sparkling Weddings Photography

Naomi has been designing for years, thrilling brides of all types and styles. Last year, she unveiled a full collection at her inaugural appearance at FASHFEST, with official event and media photographers going wild over her non-traditional bridal designs and how beautiful they looked on the models who graced the catwalk. Many of those images were pushed out through social media and some caught the eye of organisers of Milan Fashion Week.

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Naomi Peris Bridal – FASHFEST 2016. Photo by wearefoundau

Ryadal Chapman, of Oxford Fashion Studio, one of the organisers of Milan Fashion Week, was impressed. “All of our events are by invitation only. A team of five curators review 8,000 designers a year looking for original concepts who we feel press will respond to and people will love,” Ryadal said.

Naomi’s super excited about her latest collection. “I’ve really pushed my design aesthetic,” says the designer. “I decided that I didn’t want rules to restrict what I design. I’m using unconventional fabrics that are normally not used in bridal as well as garments that push the boundary of bridal design. It takes about six months to prepare for a new collection.”

 

Also approached to participate in Milan Fashion Week, after her 2016 FASHFEST appearance, was Megan Cannings of Megan Cannings Designs. Like Naomi, Megan wasn’t initially sure if the invite was a scam. It was real.

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Megan Cannings Designs – FASHFEST 2016. Image by LFWMagazine

Megan will be writing organisers about possibilities for 2018. This year would have been challenging given the designer had lost her home, sewing machine, sewing equipment, patterns and thousands of dollars of fabric, during Cyclone Debbie in March when her small miner’s cottage in the Whitsundays was destroyed.

Megan’s life seemed impossible to piece back together, but after weeks of cleaning up and backed by sheer determination, the designer got new equipment and moved to Sydney where she’s working on her latest collection. At FASHFEST, she’ll present feminine gowns, chiffon kimonos, dressers and other stunning work.

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Megan Cannings Designs – FASHFEST 2016. Photo by LFWMagazine

“I can’t wait to come back to Canberra,” says Megan. “The FASHFEST team is so professional and supportive and that includes hair, makeup and all the other organisers. My collection last year was so well received. It was so rewarding.”

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Megan Cannings (r) at FASHFEST 2016. Photo by Studio Vitae Doug Hall

Tickets for FASHFEST 2017, to be held again at the National Convention Centre Canberra, are on sale now through www.fashfest.com.au  The event runs from 28 September to 30 September, with two shows a night.

Naomi Peris Bridal will showcase on closing night, Show 1.

Megan Cannings Designs will showcase on closing night, Show 2.

FASHFEST 2017—a sneak peek at what’s new!

In a blink of an eye, FASHFEST will roll out the red carpet and present new fashion, new music and new film for its 2017 show, with tickets on sale now. What’s hot for the runaway this year? Where do we begin …

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Gehrich – photo by Christopher Thomas

Let’s start with the ‘firsts’. New labels include luxury label Gehrich, from Melbourne, which favours quality and sustainability over quantity. Queensland’s Naudic, a bold, brave and playful label, will showcase colourful day, evening and loungewear for women of all ages. From Canberra, and making debut appearances at FASHFEST, are designers such as De Challie Haute Couture, presenting elegant gowns made from the finest materials and Bianca Pavlic The Label, presenting feminine garments embellished with embroidery and beading.

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Bianca Pavlic The Label – photo by Tina Nikolvski

For the first time, the New Zealand High Commission is sponsoring seven labels, showcasing the incredibly diverse fashion coming out of New Zealand, including Nyne (presented by Department of the Exterior), Sabatini, Trelise Cooper, Curate, Coop and Cooper (presented by Momento Dezigns), Kowtow (presented by Assemblage Project, which will also host its own segment) and independent designer Melanie Child, who returns to FASHFEST for the third year.

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Trelise Cooper

Another first is the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation show, with high-end creations by 12 Indigenous designers who have worked with textile designs and textile art from 12 art centres (eight from the Northern Territory). Recently, the fashion industry, nationally and internationally, has embraced Indigenous textiles as a new and exciting trend. In a separate segment, Magpie Goose will showcase fabric designed and hand screen-printed in remote Aboriginal communities.

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Darwin Aboriginal Arts Fair Foundation – photo by Shane Eecen

Also new is Gabrielle Spencer Bridal, whose work is inspired by the texture, balance and colour of fibres found in nature, and several lingerie labels presented by Canberra’s Miss Winks.

Fashion zeroing in on niche markets include Thunder Thighs, a new label celebrating perfectly pear-sharped women of all sizes with edgy designs that fit and flatter. Stok Denim Kids and NOMI (know me) Kids are taking care of the young ones, and Summer Paradise Seekers, by young emerging designer Ashleigh Bujaroski, will present surf clothing celebrating Australia’s beautiful coastline and beaches. Those who love op shopping will be amazed by the segment being presented by Salvo’s Stores, curated by their eco stylist Faye De Lanty. This is serious eco chic.

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Coop

All-time favourite Canberra independent designers are re-appearing, including Karen Lee with her simple, sophisticated lines and classic shapes. Zilpah tart’s new line of prints celebrating spring, once more celebrate scenes from the nation’s capital. CIT fashion students return with two shows this year. BT (Braddon Tailors) will showcase men’s and women’s wear. And from Cooma, Charly Thorn arrives for the second time to wow guests once more.

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Kowtow – Dreamscape Crew

FASHFEST is so much more than fashion. It’s about live music and new film. This year 15 live musicians and DJs will rock the house down at the National Convention Centre Canberra. Just like the fashion itself, the sounds of FASHFEST are truly memorable.

Tickets are on sale now, starting at $49. FASHFEST 2017 presents six shows over three nights—28 to 30 September. For full programs and to buy your tickets, head to www.fashfest.com.au

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Kowtow – Auteur Coat Dreamscape

Walking the Walk at FASHFEST 2017 Model Casting

It’s the shoes that fascinate me. I’m impressed (and not to say envious) by the towering, tapering heels, and the fact that the female models manage to stay upright let alone walk a catwalk in front of four judges! That’s got to get them brownie points!

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Image LFW

FASHFEST model casting got underway at the National Convention Centre on Sunday 4 June with over 400 registrations and over 250 hopefuls on the catwalk. Judging panel Victoria’s Models, Haus Models, Leighton Hutchinson Photography, and Devojka Models had their work cut out to select around 100 models to showcase designer brands and new collections at FASHFEST 2017 in September.

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The great thing about FASHFEST is that models of all sizes, shapes, genders, and ethnicity are welcome—not just your sixers … female, size 6, 6 feet tall, and to that end there is usually a good choice for designers to choose who they think can best wear their outfits.

The judging panel were looking for confidence in the walk, creativity and style, and diversity, as the models walked to a thumping beat designed to keep everyone energised. And, strangely enough, when I get up to move to the back of the room I too found myself walking to the beat.

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FASHFEST is now in its fifth year and co-founder, Clint Hutchinson, says it’s going to be bigger and better this year with more live music, art, film and multimedia, and FASHFEST is also on the hunt for new labels from both interstate and overseas—so maybe lots of new designers too. FASHFEST is also expanding its publicity wagon with up-coming pop-ups and activations throughout the city. Stay tuned!

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Learning to walk-the-walk

Back to the model casting they learn to walk-the-walk in groups, pairs, and solo, under the tutelage of Susie Ellis, Director of Choreography; get head shots by the FASHFEST crew, and measured up by Braddon Tailors. Those chosen will have a few months to practise and perfect their walk and poses, and then be assigned to a designer. Good luck to all those who tried out!

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Selfie time!

FASHFEST 2017 will be held at the National Convention Centre from 28 – 30 September with two shows each night. Tickets on sale soon.

Many thanks to Sparkling Weddings Photography for images.

Diana Cheetham at Fiji Fashion Week!

Diana Cheetham knows a thing or two about makeup. She’s been the Director of Makeup for FASHFEST, Canberra’s annual red-carpet fashion show, for three years. She teaches makeup at CMA Training Group and is a professional makeup artist who owns a freelance makeup and hair business.

Diana has now added another string to her bow. She’s been selected to travel to Fiji Fashion Week, to be part of the Harlotte Cosmetics official makeup team.

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Michelle Crofts, owner of Harlotte Cosmetics, has selected Diana for her skill, creativity and flexible approach when working in the hustle, bustle and pressure of backstage at major fashion events. Makeup artists must be skilled at interpreting creative briefs quickly and working with precision to bring fashion design to life on the catwalk. Diana’s talents also saw her work with the Harlotte team at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia.

Harlotte is the official sponsor of Fiji Fashion Week, celebrating 10 years of fashion in paradise. Diana leaves at the crack of dawn on 24 May for the 11 hour journey to Suva and returns on 28 May. It’s Diana’s first international event and she hopes it’s not the last.

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FASHFEST – photo by Doug Hall Photographer

“There are no words to describe the feeling of being selected,” says Diana. “I’m so excited to be working in such an extraordinary location and to experience how another major fashion show works. And I’m looking forward to working with other skin tones.”

At FASHFEST, Diana is in charge of a team of up to 45 makeup stylists who produce high-glamour looks for up to 150 models wearing new collections by 50 fashion designers. This year’s event is 28 to 30 September.

“Make-up is a fashion accessory with the power to complete, perfect and refine an outfit,” says Diana. “Backstage has such a vibe but there’s never a minute to spare during show time. The pressure is non-stop.”

Away from formal fashion events, Diana is busy as a new mum and with her business—Diana Cheetham Hair and Makeup Artist. She services the ACT, Goulburn, and the Southern Highlands.

So what tips does Diana have for makeup this winter? “A hot trend is peach,” says Diana. “Adding peach tones to any skin colour gives a lovely, soft glow. Simply place a dewy blush to the apple of your cheeks and blend up and out toward your hairline.”

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Harlotte behind the scenes at FASHFEST – photo by Sparkling Weddings

Another winter tip is the half lash, which Diana says has an uplifting effect that will make you look refreshed. “Cut full band lashes in half and use them on the outer edges of your eyes, with the longer ends at the outer corners. The effect will be amazing,” says the makeup pro.

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Photo by Doug Hall Photography

Diana also recommends knowing your makeup products and learning how to use them properly. “Don’t hesitate to have a lesson from a professional so you know how to apply products in a way that suits your age, skin type and eye shape.”

You can follow Diana on her Facebook page, and check out Harlotte Cosmetics on their website or Facebook.

FASHFEST 2017 MODEL CASTING—On the Hunt!

FASHFEST 2017 is on the hunt for models of all ages, personality types and sizes to bring designer fashion to life at the red-carpet event on 28 to 30 September.

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Model crowds at FASHFEST 2016 model casting – photo by cumminsphoto.com.au

The annual model casting is being held Sunday 4 June at the National Convention Centre Canberra and only time will tell if FASHFEST smashes its 2016 record, with more 550 models registering to strut their stuff. While it’s serious business, it’s also a fun day, packed with wannabe models meeting new friends, snapping selfies, getting measured up, and—with butterflies in their tummies—walking the makeshift catwalk, alone and in pairs.

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Walking the walk at FASHFEST 2016 Model Casting – photo by cumminsphoto.com

“We look for different ages, body profiles and nationalities since our designers are so diverse,” says Andrea Hutchinson, from HAUS Models and one of the four judges on this year’s panel. “Depending on the final cut of designers, we might need mature models, athletic models, models with a sophisticated look or models from various ethnic backgrounds. And we need a mix of male and female.”

The casting is ‘open’ which means models don’t have to belong to an agency. Indeed, since FASHFEST is big on training, applicants don’t need previous modelling experience. If they have what it takes, they’ll cross the line and get to be in Canberra’s red-carpet fashion event. The only restriction is that models must be 16 years of age by the time FASHFEST rolls out that red carpet.

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FASHFEST 2017 Model Casting Pane l-r: Victoria from Victoria’s Models, Tina from Devojka Models, and Andrea from HAUS Models

Joining Andrea is Victoria Schnabl, Victoria’s Models, and Tina Nikolovski, Devojka Models, meaning that all three of Canberra’s top modelling agencies are represented on the judging panel. And for a different perspective, FASHFEST’s Director of Photography, Leighton Hutchinson, will also judge.

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FASHFEST 2016 Model Casting – photo by Sparkling Weddings

The models will walk to music organised by FASHFEST’s official music director, Ashley Feraude. The music creates a unique vibe for the day and helps keep nerves calm.

If you want to give it a go, register on www.fashfest.com.au.The form only takes a minute or two to complete and registration closes late on 3 June.

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In pairs at FASHFEST 2016 Model Casting – photo by cumminsphoto.com.au

 

The Paris End of Canberra!

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The Paris End, Mitchell

Have you found the Paris End yet? Does Canberra even have a Paris End? Yes, it does!

The Paris End is the brain-child of Anthony and Rebecca, of Hummingbird Vintage, whom most of you know from ThreeSixty Fashion Market, and who were instrumental in organising the brilliant vintage and swing dance segment at FASHFEST last year.

As you would expect, the Paris End includes vintage fashion, accessories, art, and bric-a-brac, and brings everything together in a one-stop permanent outlet in Mitchell. “We had been thinking about consolidating for some time,” says Anthony, “and by the end of last year we’d finally worked out what we wanted, and, more importantly, how we wanted it to look and work.

 

“This place used to be a music shop, with nooks and crannies, and separate little rooms, and the previous owner didn’t want the ambience to change, and that was fine with us. So we worked with the spaces available to bring a little bit of Paris to Canberra.” And if you’ve ever fossicked around in the old shops of Montmartre, you’ll see the resemblance.

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Fossicking in Montmartre

But the Paris End is not all vintage and vogue. “Come upstairs and I’ll show you the top of the Paris End,” says Anthony. Upstairs? The stairs are somewhat hidden behind racks at the moment, but once there, the floor space is actually larger than the downstairs and is split into a number of separate rooms. The first room is beautifully light and bright, and although it overlooks the street it’s serenely quiet and calm. With polished timber floors and strategic lighting, this room is destined to be a small art gallery; launching and showing small exhibitions of local artists and creators—again somewhat reminiscent of the little galleries in artists’ collectives in the older 18th Arrondissement.

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Art in Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)

Along the hallway there are four more rooms which will offer relaxing aromatherapy treatments, where you can wind down, and have all your stresses massaged away while sipping on a peppermint tea.

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Vintage and vogue on offer at The Paris End, Mitchell

The upstairs rooms are not quite finished and the top of the Paris End will not be fully operational for a few more weeks. So watch this space!

All it now needs is a moody café next door with a husky voiced singer installed, and you’ll think you really are in Paris!

You can get your Paris on at: The Paris End, 1/56 Heffernan Street, Mitchell. Open now, and Hummingbird Vintage, The Paris End, ThreeSixty Fashion Markets, and other local and regional markets as advertised.

NEXT!

Beautiful, wearable hair. It’s every woman’s dream, whether that dream is for a subtle cut and colour or a head-turning cut and colour, you want it to the highest of standards, and designed just for you.Next1

If anyone gets this, it’s Canberra’s Leslie Henshaw, from Next Hair, who has just won Salon Stylist of the Year, Australian Hair Industry Awards.

“Colour is fabulous. It’s a great confidence booster for a client, who walks out of the salon with their head held high and feeling like a new person,” says Leslie. “It’s also a dynamic and exciting component of the industry for me as a professional.”Next3

Leslie’s passion about styling and colour hair runs deep and he’s done Canberra proud by winning this national title. Not only does Leslie show his talent as Head Colourist and Senior Stylist at Next, he does through his work as an educator in training—across Australia and in Hong Kong, China and the Philippines. His education and training work has culminated in another big win. Leslie has just self-published The Hair Colour Bible, a rich industry resource on in-depth colour theory and techniques.Next2

Leslie’s work is amazingly diverse and he works incredibly hard at refining his unique style and technique. Throughout his career, Leslie has completed more than 140 professional photo shoots. He’s worked with industry icons, award-winning photographers, top models and dozens of fashion designers, including several who have been spotted on the catwalk at FASHFEST. Indeed, Leslie himself has lent his talent to the event, working backstage at FASHFEST one year. And he’s worked on many other runway shows, including for the big guns like Wayne Cooper.

Leslie’s work has been published extensively in Canberra, nationally and overseas. One example is his Chromatophores collection, which has been published 42 times internationally, including in artCoiffure Russia and disconnect (Hong Kong).Next4

And last, but not least, Leslie generously donates his time to travel to the Philippines as a volunteer for Hair Aid, a not-for-profit organisation that provides hair-cutting training for low-income individuals, helping them to develop livelihood skills.

Keen on a new cut or colour? Whether you wear it long, short, sleek or curly, classic or quirky … you can find Leslie at Next Hair in Braddon. 62472062.