Fashion fundraiser raises $6k for school pool

JULIA WADE

Sashaying models flaunting high-fashion, goodie bags, nibbles, bubbles, spot prizes, fashion advice and a chance to help local children learn to swim attracted a large audience to an annual fashion fundraiser recently.

A crowd of 150 women, and one or two men, headed to Mangawhai Club on May 30, seeking fashion inspiration from a range of international designers stocked at local store, Inspire by Design, previously known as Shizazz.

Hosted by The Mangawhai Club and co-ordinated by new boutique owner Carol Kite, former-owner Jasmyn Hodder and daughter Abbey Lee, who MC’d the event, the show received sponsorship and support from a number of local businesses including Bammas, Mangawhai Optometrist, Kakariki, Super Liquor, Remax, Smugglers Cove Wines, Bennetts, BK Sushi, Jesses Cafe, Wood Street Four Square and Threadbox, with flower bouquets provided by Roxy of Blooming Wild.

Deemed a huge success, with $6000 raised for Mangawhai Beach School’s swimming pool upgrade, principal Aaron Kemp says ‘it was lovely’ to be presented with such a large cheque, and expressed many thanks to everyone who supported the event and enjoyed the fashion show.

Local image coach and regular model for the annual event, Jan Fisher, also spoke on fashion tips, wardrobe clear outs, body shapes as well as the importance of swapping negative body attitudes for a more positive outlook.

“Change your language… you have a luscious bust, curvaceous bottom, lovely thighs and very strong arms… the way you look directly affects the way you think, feel, behave and how others react to you… looking good is good for you.”

Strutting their stuff and entertaining the crowd, models playfully showcase styles from Joseph Ribkoff, Lemon Tree and other designers found on the hangers at Mangawhai Heads boutique Inspire by Design. Among the makeup, vouchers and knicks knacks in the complimentary goodie bag, guests also received a 20 per cent discount for the store.

Local image coach Jan Fisher modelled and gave a speech on the health benefits of looking good.

Mangawhai Beach School principal Aaron Kemp accepts a $6000 cheque to go towards the school swimming pool upgrade.