Chester Fashion Week gathers momentum

Designers and retailers from in and around the city will be strutting their stuff at Chester Fashion 2006, (CF06) which runs from September 22-30. CF06 will be showcasing the fashion industry in Chester in an inaugural event that follows on directly from London Fashion Week. Leather shoes and accessories will feature during the event, with ladies' shoes being provided by Dutch shoe manufacturers Ecco who have a branch in the town. CF06 aims to promote Chester as a fashion destination by creating a number of key events including a search to find the Face of Chester. The contest will be held at Chester Zoo where the male and female winners will receive a year's modelling contract. There will also be events held at Chester Town Hall, The Forum Shopping Centre, The Mall Grosvenor and Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet. CF06 will be supported by a range of smaller events and promotions provided by the city's retailers. Stephen Wundke, chairman of Chester Fashion 2006, said: 'I have thought for a long time that Chester should have its own Fashion Week and am delighted this has come to fruition. People come from miles around to shop in the unique city of Chester with its variety of fashionable shops, so it made sense to hold this event. Shoppers in Chester are stylish and there will be exciting cutting edge new collections from designers, retailers and students available for all to see. We hope to find the next Elle McPherson or Vernon Kay here in Chester and winners will be set on their way with a year's modelling contract. As chairman of the Chester Food and Drink Festival I have seen a combined effort to put Chester and Cheshire back in its rightful place as the 'must see' destination in the UK and Chester Fashion Week will help towards the city's aim of making Chester the City of Festivals. It is important the people of Cheshire and the North West support the event.” CF06 will provide an opportunity for young designers from local colleges and Universities the opportunity to showcase their work.