Earlier this month students and industry professionals were dazzled by the latest vogue as Australian fashion labels, retailers and designers took to the catwalk in support of PR in Fashion.

Organised by the Public Relations Student Chapter at Curtin University, PR in Fashion is an annual non-for profit event run.

This event provides an opportunity for students to network with public relations professionals working in the fashion industry.

SLIDESHOW: The latest fashions on display.

PRSC treasurer Sarah-Jane Stefano says it is important for guests and members to network with industry professionals so they can walk away from the event, acquiring the knowledge they were looking for about fashion PR.

“We try to achieve this by contacting high quality guest speakers who can offer the most to our guests,” Ms Stefano said.

Invited professionals spoke throughout the evening about their work and experiences.

The stylish Manhattan’s Bar in Victoria Park was the perfect atmosphere to show off this season’s styles.

Each of the 150 guests was welcomed to the show and greeted with complementary champagne, canapés and giveaways.

The fashion

Guests were spoilt with four fashion shows from Australian labels, retailers and designers.

Taking a sideways step from the glitz and glamour, this season is all about street fashion.

Pardon My French

Established in 2007, Pardon My French is brought to the catwalk by Western Australian head designer, Freya Brice. 

“I am so thrilled to be involved in the event. PRSC has helped in growing my label and it is great to see such a strong support network of students in the fashion industry,” Ms Brice said.

The Pardon My French collection can be seen online.

Manikinn

Manikinn is an Australian online boutique, offering a unique range of fashion and styles.

The brand has recently opened a pop-up store near Beaufort Street, Mt Lawley.

Cute t-shirts and accessories were seen at the show and can be checked out online.

Planet

Planet Clothing occupies about a third of Planet Video, located on Beaufort St, Mt Lawley.  The store stocks a mix of men and women’s fashions and accessories from a range of local and international designers.

The fashion event showcased just some of the fashions available, which can also been seen on the website.

Curtin designers

Guests were fortunate enough to see the works of Curtin fashion students showcased on the catwalk. 

Collections from Michelle Cox, Genevieve Orton, Eraine Poon and Yan Zion looked great as the models displayed their work. 

The speakers

Between fashion shows, guests had the chance to listen to guest speakers and network with professionals.

Stephanie Patnoitis (P Squared Communications)

Ms Patnoitis founded “P Squared Communications”, a boutique marketing and events business, with her sister earlier this year.

She shared her experiences, advice and tips with the guests.

The company has developed strategic marketing, brand development, web design and publicity, Ms Patnoitis said.

Jessie Stoelwinder (The Velvet Bow)

Ms Stoelwinder is a young Perth journalism student and the creator of The Velvet Bow.

She is inspired by vintage clothing, writing and photography.

Ms Stoelwinder started the blog and online clothing store in 2009. Guests at PR in Fashion were fortunate to hear about her journey.

Ms Stoelwinder discussed blogging as a media strategy, building relations with public relations professionals and the overwhelming presence of social media today.

The young blogger said: “It was certainly a challenge to get up there [and speak] but I am really glad I was given the opportunity.”

Samantha Bremner (Professional Public Relations)

As the Group Director of PPR’s consumer division in WA, Ms Bremner has gained a range of experiences throughout her career. She discussed her work including how each industry interacts, communication strategies, social media, interactive sponsorship and community involvement.

All thanks to the PRSC

“PR in Fashion is the PRSC’s most successful event,” Ms Stefano said.

PR in Fashion 2011 had more guests, sponsors and support than previous years.

“Every year our attendance grows and this year we had fashion organisations approach us about being involved,” Ms Stefano said.

The PRSC said people loved the event, especially the giveaways. 

“We are so grateful for the amount of support the PRSC has received from sponsors. This has allowed for us to take PR in Fashion to another level and provide more for our guests,” PRSC president Chantelle Cox said.

This student-run and non-profit organisation has been operating since 1992.

The committee currently numbers 15 people and another 154 fashion enthusiasts are members. 

The group aims to help students to network, establish professional skills and provide career opportunities for those studying and wanting to work in the media.

The PRSC has even bigger plans to come in 2012. 

Special thanks to all sponsors:

Catherine Ruze Modelling Agency, Pardon My French, Manikinn, Planet Clothing, The Manhattan’s Bar, Elysium Functions, Elicia Rudd – Hair and Make-up, Peppermint Dance Studio, The Junction Ice Creamery, That Guy Judd Photography, The Velvet Bow and Lendan Australia.