The fundraiser ‘Fashion and Fizz’, hosted by esteemed Adelaide presenter Nerida Foord, benefited Type 1 Voice, a not-for-profit charity that helps raise awareness for those living with type 1 diabetes.
The runway event and launch was held at Deviation Road Winery in the Adelaide Hills. Owner and winemaker Kate Laurie was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes herself in 2009 and is a member of Type 1 Voice. Kate uses an insulin pump to deliver her insulin, which she must wear 24 hours a day, every day of the year. It was while out with friends Melanie and Dean Flintoft, directors of Australian Fashion Labels, that the idea to design a concealed but accessible insulin pump pocket into a range of top end dresses took form.
“It was at a dinner party with Melanie and Dean [Flintoft] that we really started talking about the restrictions the insulin pump put on people in their fashion choices,” explains Kate.
Type 1 Voice hopes to help eliminate social stigmas surrounding this auto-immune condition and help boost the emotional and physical confidence of those requiring insulin therapy.
Funds raised on the night will be utilised to develop their community based website www.type1voice.com.au and enable them to continue advocating for real change in health policy, improve workplace understanding and general community awareness of the condition.
Australian Fashion Labels presented a selection of the February ranges from their brands, Cameo, Finders Keepers, Keepsake and The Fifth on the runway for the first time. Local accessories designer Miss Margie also showcased her newest range of bags, purses and accessories.
Photography by Gretl Watson-Blazewicz
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