Soft shades shine

CHIC: A colourful cape (front) brought a splash of brightness to Marrissa Norton's dark designs.

MELLOW YELLOW: Maria Claverol's Inca-inspired designs included an eye-catching suit.

RED HOT: This super-chic satin dress by Sighle Illston was a crowd favourite.

DRESSING UP: A flirty fur dress was one of two impressive outfits by Georgia Currie.

CUTE: Kate Cottrell found a winning combination with checks and florals.

WINNER: Soft, sophisticated designs like this earned Gracie Whiteman the top design award.

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No tricks or gimmicks - this year's Pitch event was all about the fashion, writes Christina Kuntz.

A refined, romantic collection of pretty pastel shades and fluid fabrics was the big winner at this year's CPIT Pitch event, earning Gracie Whiteman the TelstraClear Design Excellence Award.

Inspired by the classical antiquity of Renaissance architecture, the third-year fashion-school student used soft silks and cottons to create a range of sophisticated, feminine garments for her collection, Adoration.

Auckland-based fashion designer Sera Lilly, who was one of the judges, said it was a close call between two third- year students.

But Whiteman offered the most cohesive collection on the night.

"It was her hair, her makeup, her lighting - it was very simple and beautiful and it all came together really well," said Lilly.

A first-timer at Pitch, Lilly said she was amazed at the quality of the designs and the entire production.

Held last week at the Christchurch Convention Centre, the event showcased a variety of designs from 47 fashion school students in their first, second or third years of study.

Fur, florals, ruffles and bows were common themes, but it was the menswear designs that really stood out, with several students displaying impressive tailoring skills.

Overall highlights included a red ruffled dress by second-year student Sighle Illston, a sleek pinstripe suit by third-year student Katrina Brown, and a hip, high-quality collection by third-year student Campbell Turnbull that could easily grace any streetwear shop in town.

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- © Fairfax NZ News

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