The event was held at Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas, and drew about 165 people.
The Women’s Refuge – Invercargill and The Sophie Elliott Foundation were the recipients of the proceeds from the event, which amounted to more than $5000.
Southland mayors Tracy Hicks of Gore District and Gary Tong of Southland District modelled regalia, based on wearable arts that reflects their districts. Gary Tong won the "Mayoral Wearable" award, with a creation by Margot Shaw that was based on the district council's slogan, "Putting People First" and incorporated various aspects of the council's infrastructure.
Tracy Hicks' outfit, made by his wife Robyn, was based on "Rural City Living", showcasing the idea of a relaxed rural lifestyle.
Organiser Sarah Greaney said the idea for the event was born after a trip to Turkey earlier in the year.
Herself and three others from Rotary Fiordland went along with the objective of looking at peace starting in the home.
Sophie Elliot Foundation founder Lesley Elliott spoke at the event about her own experience with domestic violence.
The event showcased Glowing Sky clothing for men, women and children as well as 24 wearable arts entries from 16 designers.
The competition was open to Individuals and teams, with $350 cash prize.
Judges for the Wearable Arts Competition were Lesley Elliott of Sophie Elliott Foundation, along with Megan Greaney (ex-Te Anau) of Glowing Sky.
First place was awarded to Debbie Smith, of Waimumu, and Jocelyn Miller, of Glencoe, with their design Eyes of the Stars.
Fresh Choice of Te Anau took out the second placing, a creative team effort by Monica Cullen (owner/operator) staff members Sheree Campbell, Dot McKay, Laurel Caddick, Alison McFarlane and Johanna Krueckberg (model).
They decided to enter 10 days out from the event, and spent three days debating their design, name and how to make it.
With 50 reusable and 400 plastic checkout bags, and dozens of hours designing, cutting, sewing, unpicking, gluing, pinning unpinning and sewing some more, their creation “I Sea Peaks” was born.
Monica Cullen said: “The team were surprised at the comments and it was good to get positive feedback”.
Claire Maley-Shaw of Manapouri was third.
