Spotlight on local fashion

The runway came alive with vibrant colors, flowing fabrics, and bold accessories as eight local businesswomen took center stage to model the latest spring fashion. Among them was Kelli Saam from Action News Now, who confidently showcased a chic ensemble curated by a regional boutique. Each outfit reflected the individuality of the wearer while embracing the season’s freshest trends, from floral prints and pastel tones to tailored linen suits and statement jewellery.

Local designers and independent boutiques played a central role in the event, offering a platform to display their newest collections. The fashion pieces highlighted the creativity and craftsmanship found within the community, with many garments featuring sustainable materials and handmade details. The show not only celebrated style but also underscored the importance of supporting homegrown talent in the fashion industry.

Attendees were treated to a visual feast of contemporary Australian fashion, with each look carefully styled to reflect both elegance and everyday wearability. The event served as a reminder that regional fashion can be just as trendsetting and inspiring as that found in major cities, with local designers bringing a unique flair that resonates with the community’s lifestyle and values.

Empowering women through style

Beyond the glitz of the runway, the event served as a powerful statement about the role of fashion in empowering women. Each participant, from seasoned entrepreneurs to emerging business owners, used the opportunity to express confidence, individuality, and strength through their chosen outfits. The act of stepping onto the runway was more than a fashion statement—it was a celebration of self-assurance and leadership in a traditionally male-dominated business landscape.

For many of the women involved, the experience was deeply personal. Wearing designs that reflected their personalities and professional journeys, they demonstrated how style can be a form of self-expression and a tool for empowerment. The garments were not just beautiful—they told stories of resilience, ambition, and community connection. Whether it was a bold power suit or a flowing floral dress, each look symbolised the wearer’s unique path and achievements.

“It’s not just about what you wear, it’s about how it makes you feel,” said one participant, who owns a local wellness studio. “Walking the runway gave me a chance to step outside my comfort zone and show others that confidence comes in many forms.”

The event also highlighted the importance of representation in fashion. By featuring women of different ages, backgrounds, and body types, the show challenged traditional beauty standards and promoted inclusivity. This diversity sent a strong message to the audience: style is for everyone, and every woman deserves to feel seen, celebrated, and empowered.

• Participants were styled by local fashion experts who prioritised comfort and authenticity.
• Outfits were selected to reflect each woman’s professional identity and personal taste.
• Many of the designs incorporated sustainable fabrics and ethical production methods.

Through fashion, these businesswomen not only showcased their personal style but also inspired others to embrace their own power and presence. The runway became a platform for more than just clothing—it became a stage for confidence, courage, and community spirit.

Celebrating community and creativity

The atmosphere throughout the event was one of celebration and connection, as community members gathered to support not only fashion but also the women behind the businesses. The venue buzzed with energy as friends, family, and local supporters cheered on the participants, creating a warm and inclusive environment that reflected the collaborative spirit of the region. It was clear that this was more than a fashion show—it was a community coming together to uplift and honour its own.

Local artists and musicians added to the festive mood, with live performances and creative installations that complemented the fashion on display. The integration of different art forms highlighted the richness of local talent and the importance of fostering creativity across industries. From the runway to the stage, every element of the event was infused with a sense of pride in regional artistry and innovation.

“There’s something truly special about seeing our community come together like this,”

shared one of the event organisers. “It’s not just about fashion—it’s about celebrating who we are and what we can achieve when we support each other.”

Stalls from local vendors lined the venue, offering handmade jewellery, artisan skincare, and bespoke accessories, giving attendees the chance to shop and connect directly with the makers. These small businesses, many of them women-led, were given a platform to share their stories and products, reinforcing the event’s commitment to nurturing local enterprise and creativity.

The collaborative nature of the event extended behind the scenes as well. Hair and makeup artists, photographers, and stylists—all from the local area—donated their time and expertise to ensure the show’s success. Their contributions not only elevated the production value but also demonstrated the strength of community networks and the power of shared purpose.

• Local musicians performed original compositions, adding a unique soundtrack to the runway.
• Art installations by regional creatives provided a vibrant backdrop for the show.
• Pop-up stalls featured handmade goods from women-owned businesses across the region.

By blending fashion, art, and entrepreneurship, the event became a vibrant expression of community identity. It showcased how creativity can be a unifying force, bringing people together to celebrate not only style but also the values of collaboration, diversity, and mutual support that define the local spirit.

Spring fashion highlights

This season’s runway was a vibrant celebration of colour, texture, and individuality, with eight local businesswomen stepping out in standout spring ensembles. Kelli Saam from Action News Now brought a polished edge to the catwalk, donning a structured linen blazer in soft sage paired with wide-leg trousers — a nod to the relaxed tailoring trend dominating spring collections.

Each outfit was curated by local designers and boutiques, showcasing a fresh take on seasonal staples. Think breezy midi dresses in botanical prints, lightweight knits layered over silk camisoles, and statement accessories that added a pop of personality. The palette leaned into earthy neutrals with bursts of coral, lavender, and sun-washed yellow — hues that speak to the Australian love for effortless, sun-drenched style.

Textural play was a key theme, with natural fibres like cotton, linen, and bamboo blends taking centre stage. One standout look featured a tiered maxi dress in organic cotton, styled with woven leather sandals and a raffia clutch — the perfect ensemble for a weekend brunch or coastal getaway.

Silhouettes were fluid and feminine, with wrap dresses, culottes, and off-shoulder tops offering versatility and comfort. The runway also embraced layering, with sheer overlays and cropped jackets adding dimension to otherwise simple pieces.

“It’s all about wearable elegance this spring — pieces that move with you and reflect your personality,” said one of the featured designers.

From bold florals to minimalist tailoring, the show captured the essence of spring fashion in Australia: relaxed, refined, and rooted in authenticity.

Empowering local women entrepreneurs

Beyond the fashion, the event served as a powerful platform to spotlight the entrepreneurial spirit of the women behind the looks. Each of the eight participants is not only a style icon in her own right but also a driving force in the local business scene — from boutique owners to media personalities like Kelli Saam, who balances her on-air presence with community advocacy.

The runway became a celebration of female-led innovation, with many of the featured outfits sourced from women-owned labels and styled by female creatives. This synergy between fashion and entrepreneurship underscored the importance of supporting local talent, particularly in regional areas where visibility can be a challenge.

These women are redefining what it means to be a business leader in 2024 — blending creativity, resilience, and a strong sense of community. Their presence on the runway wasn’t just about showcasing clothes; it was a statement of empowerment, proving that style and substance can walk hand in hand.

• One participant, a café owner, wore a hand-dyed silk jumpsuit from a local designer she stocks in her shop — a seamless fusion of her business and personal brand.
• Another, who runs a wellness studio, chose a flowy bamboo wrap dress that echoed her ethos of sustainability and self-care.
• Kelli Saam’s tailored look reflected her role as a communicator — sharp, composed, and confident.

By stepping into the spotlight, these women not only elevated local fashion but also inspired others to embrace their entrepreneurial journey with style and confidence. Their stories, woven into each garment, added depth and authenticity to the show — a reminder that fashion is as much about the people as it is about the pieces.