NZ Fashion Talent Gets Big Break

Influential fashion designer and savvy entrepreneur Annah Stretton, is fast tracking the career of talented evening wear designer, Kiri Nathan.
As part of Stretton's ongoing 'Nurture' strategy she is collaborating with Nathan on a collection of couture inspired evening gowns to be released early in 2012.

Stretton has long been involved in developing business capability with her involvement in Her Business Networks and as publisher of Her Magazine. Now after 20 years in the local fashion industry she has come full circle to lend her weight to fledgling designers to build a culture of design and business excellence in New Zealand.

"It's extremely hard to get any traction in this business and instead of many established designers paying it forward, sadly often the opposite is true', she says.

"I am committed to nurturing talent but it has to be on a sound business footing. There is growth in the special occasion 'designer' gown market and I am very proud to work with Kiri on what will be a very original and elegant collection", she adds.

Stretton points out this is not about one collection, but about the business of design and creating a sustainable industry in New Zealand. With 30 stores across the country and three recently opened Australian stores, Stretton she is uniquely placed to nurture talent.

Kiri Nathan launched her own label in 2010 and had garnered a string of accolades and awards including; New Zealand Smokefree Awards, New Zealand World of Wearable Art
Awards, Miromoda Fashion Awards, The Supreme Award at Creative Youth Awards, and, the coveted Supreme Award at Westfield Style Pasifika, New Zealand's most prestigious fashion competition.
Last month she took the evening and bridal sections at the 10th annual Cult Couture Awards in Auckland.
The Mt Wellington based mother of five who completed a diploma in Visual Arts, majoring in fashion, now finally feels the future looks bright.

"Annah has given me the opportunity to do what I love doing backed by investment and sound business knowledge. Nobody does that. This industry is so small and everyone is fighting for a tiny piece of a niche market. There are so many amazing designers that don't make it past the first year. Although they make some incredible things, they haven't a clue about running a business. I think I learned more about business through reading Annah's second book, Wise Heart that I have in my entire life, "Kiri quips.

The new Annah Stretton Kiri Nathan garments will be available in selected Annah Stretton stores in 2012.

ENDS

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