Thousands turn out for City fashion finale

Thousands of people tonight congregated at Hamilton City Hall for the climax of a major fashion week.

Models of all ages took to the catwalk while the audience showed their approval as young Bermudians grabbed their chance in the spotlight at the Evolution fashion show.

Karen Delapp, of Warwick, was at the show to watch her daughter Regina, 28, and two grandsons aged 3 and 7 take part in the show.

Ms Delapp said: “This show is important because it gathers us all together. People come of one accord and put down everything. That’s what I like about it.”
She added: “I’m very, very proud of my daughter and my grandchildren. Especially the youngest one because this is his first time.”

The event started with a fashion parade of children’s clothes, modelled by local youngsters and featuring garments by top stores like AS Cooper, Gibbons Company and Daisy & Mac.

Michael James, an entertainer/producer and songwriter, said: “I look forward to the show. It’s a good day for Bermuda.”

He added his daughter Michaela, 18, was also taking part in the show.

Mr James said: “Bermuda needs more of this type of stuff - it brings out families and children. We need more entertainment like this.

“The kids really look forward to it every year. It helps build their confidence and a social life where they interact with different people from different areas.”

Mr James added that the event also offered a chance for models who catch the eye of international agencies to make it big in modeling, while it offered a part-time careers for others, like his daughter, who is pursuing her education.

He said: “All they need is that one chance and to work with it.”

And Mr James added: “The vendors and how they got the street down is really nice as well. “

Roddy Petty, operations manager of the Daisy & Mac group, which was showcasing both adult and children’s clothes at the show, said: “It’s a great opportunity for some of them to go overseas and become a star model.

“Even if that doesn’t work out, they have good experience and learn to handle themselves.”

He added: “It’s great to see so many Bermudians and expats out enjoying themselves and enjoying the fashion – the children are seeing a positive influence and it’s been really well presented.”