CDU goes fashion forward for Fashion Week

Beauty therapy students from Charles Darwin University will add some colour and gloss to this month’s NT Fashion Week.

Lecturers from the Palmerston campus will supervise Certificate III and Diploma of Beauty Therapy students applying make-up to models for the week’s various events.

Beauty Therapy lecturer Kate Boland said the experience would help students understand the high-pressure nature of working in the industry with multiple clients.

“In runway shows, it’s really fast-paced and students get a buzz out of it,” Ms Boland said.

“Working with photographers, runway models, hairdressers and designers, the students will also gain customer service and practical skills to get them industry-ready.”

Ms Boland said neutral, glossy and “fresh-faced” make-up looks were currently in fashion.

“You’ll see a lot of fresh and natural looks,” she said. “Your soft browns, nude colours and a touch of pink. Nothing too bold.”

Ms Boland said CDU’s involvement in the event was a great way to showcase the wide range of skills students could gain from the course.

“We like to get students involved as much as possible, to build their confidence so the step into the industry can be an easier experience,” she said.

NT Fashion Week also announced CDU Public Relations lecturer Natalie Bell as its 2014 ambassador.

Ms Bell said she was very proud to be awarded the title and to represent the event’s message about inclusion and positive self-image.

“It’s about showcasing the great local talent and the unique elements from the NT,” Ms Bell said. “From Indigenous prints to the use of local materials, like crocodile skin and pearls.

“It’s going to be a fantastic week of parties, runway shows and workshops.”

Ms Bell said she would be encouraging local businesses and residents to support or become involved in the event.

Beauty therapy and make-up artists, Tamara Porter, Patricia Sweeney-Fawcett and their team leader Linda Manning are supervising the students at the event.