The WoolOn creative fashion event has received its first overseas entry but the design features New Zealand wool.
The competition will be held on October 3 in Alexandra and artist and knit designer Connie Johnston, who is based in the Netherlands, has entered the felted garment section.
WoolOn is the final event in the Alexandra Blossom Festival and festival manager Annetta Latham said it was exciting to receive the first international entry.
"Because of the level of interest in the competition, as entries are still rolling in, we've decided to extend the closing date," Ms Latham said.
Fifty entries had already been received from designers throughout New Zealand, and the closing date is now August 21.
A record number of 62 entries were received for the 2008 contest and a menswear category has been added in this year.
All garments have to be at least 50% wool.
"Our overseas entrant found out about the contest on the website but her outfit is made from felted wool from New Zealand," Ms Latham said.
The contest began as part of the annual New Zealand Merino Shearing Championships six years ago. Three years ago, it became a stand-alone event, under the umbrella of the Blossom Festival.
"It's evolved into an evening of entertainment, with a fashion show still at the core of it," Ms Latham said.
WoolOn will take on a circus theme this year, with aerial and acrobatic acts from Fuse Circus, which is based in Wellington.
The 53rd Blossom Festival begins on September 25 and plans were shaping up well, she said.
"Everyone is really happy with how things are going and early bird ticket sales to the events begin later this week."
