By gum, that's gorgeous

DONNA WALSH

FABULOUS FROCK: A garment created out of scented gum leaves stole the show at the Raglan ArtoWear Awards.

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A leaf-adorned garment that smelt as good as it looked caught the judges' eyes at the Raglan ArtoWear Awards 2010 on Saturday.

The third awards, a biennial event, attracted 57 entrants and filled the Raglan Town Hall to capacity for two sold-out shows.

Co-ordinator Jean Carbon said the quality and creativity of entrants' work amazed the judges and organisers.

This year's $1000 grand prize went to Carly McCarthy and Riley Coleman for their garment "Beleave" created out of scented gum leaves.

"Not only did the garment look stunning but it smelt beautiful as well," Ms Carbon said.

"Everything about the garment was so amazing and it had an instant impact on the audience."

The leafy ensemble, modelled by Kate Sandwell, featured a separate bodice and skirt, matching hat, handbag and shoes.

Ms Carbon said the event's growing popularity, especially with schoolchildren, left organisers contemplating a shift to a bigger venue.

"Our two shows literally sold out in minutes and the real issue we're facing is finding a venue that's big enough," Ms Carbon said.

"It's a big issue because we don't want to take the event away from Raglan."

More than 400 people attended Saturday's two shows.

"One solution is that we just put on an extra two shows over the weekend but we've got so many little children involved and two shows on Saturday is already a lot for them."

Ms Carbon said the children's sections – "Crazy Creatures" and "Washed Up" – featuring garments made from at least 80 per cent recycled material, were especially popular this year.

"Children really love being on the catwalk and having their moment of glory."

- © Fairfax NZ News