New Zealand Design Duo are going Solo

New Zealand Design Duo are going Solo
Media Release
For Immediate Release
July 2004

After 13 years as New Zealand’s design duo Caroline Church and Sherilyn Catchpole of State of Grace fame have announced that they plan to go solo.

The Auckland based designers made the amicable decision to work independently following recent developments in their personal and professional lives. The new direction will allow both designers to individually develop their creative signature, building on the experience and success that the State of Grace brand has given them.

Designer Caroline Church is wasting no time with plans to launch her new brand for winter at Air New Zealand Fashion Week 2004 under her own name, ‘Caroline Church.’

“I see this move as a step forward, breaking from my well established label to strike out, not in a complete change of direction, but with a new-found independence and assurance,” said designer Caroline Church.

The new Caroline Church collection epitomises luxury and elegance. Exquisite self-designed fabrics provide the foundation in which timeless, feminine and flattering styles are created.

This continues the designer’s tradition of providing outstanding pieces for special occasions, but also incorporates a selection of garments that are equally divine, yet functional enough for everyday wear.

Caroline assures that her loyal followers will not be disappointed. “I want a woman wearing the Caroline Church label to look and feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.”

With sales of Caroline’s current Summer 2005 collection up 32%, it’s no wonder retailers and customers are both excited and supportive of the announcement.

"Caroline's collections have always been one of our top sellers,” said Diann Waugh, Waugh's in Dunedin, New Zealand. “Sell through is fantastic, and the fabrics are gorgeous. I am so looking forward to seeing her new collection for Winter 2005. It's an exciting time for Caroline and for Waugh's.”

"The division of the two labels will bring positive new challenges, with exciting growth, both personally and in business, and much to learn,” said Tania Rupapera, Owner of Unity in Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand. “As a buyer I look forward to having more choices."

The Caroline Church Winter 2005 collection will be seen for the first time, on the catwalk at Air New Zealand Fashion Week (October 18th-22nd). It will also be the start of a new collaboration with Champagne Lanson.

A revamped retail store will follow, in time to launch the new season in February 2005.

Ends

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