Top fashion labels at affordable prices are flying off the racks at the Salvation Army Clothing Store following the group's Queenstown Fashion Show last Friday.
More than 200 people with a passion for fashion enjoyed the second annual event at Earnslaw Park. They saw a collection of almost 100 brand new and pristine second-hand clothes modelled by 27 staff, volunteers and customers.
Queenstown Lakes Mayor Clive Geddes, dressed in smart casual attire, and Mitre 10 Dream Home host Jayne Kiely, modelling glamorous gowns, were among those strutting their stuff on the catwalk.
The Salvation Army's Lieutenant Kenneth Walker, who modelled a range of rural clothing, said there was a "significant increase in clientele" after the show, which demonstrated to the public there were bargains to be had at the clothing store. Exposure had gone national, with the show covered on TV3's Campbell Live.
Trade in the lower Shotover St outlet rocketed by 70% the day after the show and business had been higher than usual since, he said.
"The lady running the shop said it was five-deep at the changing rooms. Some people decided to do their changing in the shop; they couldn't be bothered waiting."
Garments by Versace, Hugo Boss, Dolce Gabbana, Ice Breaker, Untouched World, Billabong, Diesel, Annah Stretton, Fendi, Louis Vuitton and many more were donated by residents and visitors to the army and put aside for the fashion show during the past few months. Several items still bore the original price tags.
Mr Walker said the aim was to highlight the generosity of the community. Tourists often donated clothes before they departed, especially in the ski season.
A rack of garments from the show goes on sale in The Clothing Store each day. Proceeds would be channelled into the army's social work in the Wakatipu.
Mr Walker said feedback had been positive and a third show would go ahead next year.
