Wow! What an amazing day our small but dedicated team had at the Showquest – Toi Wearable Arts Event on Thursday 19th June at the Aotea centre.
Olivia Stinton and Arum Holding have been working for the past four months designing and constructing a stunning garment in the category – Rewind Time. They created a reproduction of a 17th century court lady – Lady Juliet Whitbourne, that Olivia Stagg modelled with grace and confidence.
Layers of hoop skirts – petticoats and overlay skirt complete with handmade hip pads and bustle, and a fully boned corset were sewn by the designers. The skill in construction and finishing of the garment was of an extremely high standard and commented upon by many at the event.
A last minute rush to get back into costume after rehearsals at the request of the official photographer was a frantic! yet exciting part of the day as we may be featured in the yet to be created Toi Look Book for 2025.
Unfortunately the garment did not win any categories – but with over 200 garments / 1000 students involved and only about 45 awards given out we were not the only group to leave the event a little disappointed.
The girls were outstanding in their work ethic, support for each other and support for other schools throughout the very long and taxing day.
The Showquest events are positive places of community and affirmation and we were showered with praise and positivity all throughout the day from students and teachers and event staff alike praising the garment, so I am sure the students will be left with great memories and incredible learning and skill development from the experience.
