Tears backstage but poised on runway
Blue steel wins the catwalk as tiny models strut at the Kids Show for New Zealand Fashion Week, Saturday, 1.30pm.
There were meltdowns and tears, but the promise of Denny’s ensured the kids put their best blue-steel looks forward on the catwalk.
Aged between 2 and 10, they strutted their stuff at the annual Kids Show at New Zealand Fashion Week’.
Designer Lucy Wildman reckoned the children created a ‘‘high energy, fun show’’.
They were encouraged to flaunt their personalities and show off their accessories.
The young models took to the runway with skateboards, bikes, mountain buggies, and the odd parent.
Some of the top kids’ brands on display included Little Flock of Horrors, Hello Stranger and Radicool Kids.
Among the 45 young models were the designers’ children, while others were sourced from families and friends.
Former model Anna Reeve and her ZM radio host husband Jay Reeve walked their social media sensation twins, know as the Nuggets, down the catwalk for Little Flock of Horrors.
Designer Lucy Wildman said her own children, aged 5 and 7, had been modelling since Little Flock of Horrors began four years ago.
‘‘We’ve got them trained up pretty well – you just have to say ‘photo face’ and they turn all blue steel,’’ she said.
They were in the show, too, with the ‘‘bribe of Denny’s afterwards’’ to ensure best behaviour.
Wildman said kids fashion shows have a different backstage vibe than adult shows.
‘‘Little kids turn into limp fishes backstage - they need someone to pull off each sock, which gets a bit hectic when you’ve got to get a 4-year-old into four different outfits in 10 minutes. It’s craziness.
‘‘I also brought a suitcase full of caramel popcorn, chocolate, and juice boxes to keep them occupied behind the scenes.’’
The kids fashion show is now in its third year, and is the only one of its kind in New Zealand’’’