HIGH street giants and boutique fashion shops are joining forces for a pioneering, outdoor catwalk show in the region this month.
On Saturday 23 April, Darlington’s Grange Road will be turned into a 14m long catwalk as models parade the latest spring/summer trends – and retailers are lining up to take part.
National names such as Binns – House of Fraser, Van Mildert and shoe retailer Moda in Pelle will be among those showcasing their latest collections, alongside independent Darlington stores, such as Leggs, Geoffrey Gillow, Chestnut and Dolly Mama.
The day-long event, which will be the first of its kind in the town, is the brainchild of BID company, Distinct Darlington, formed to promote businesses and deliver a range of activities to benefit the town centre.
And Anna Caygill, owner of Grange Road ladieswear shop, Dolly Mama, said; “It’s an absolutely brilliant idea.
“Darlington is well known for its clothes shops and an outdoor catwalk show will not only be fun but it will also be a great way to show what we have to offer.
“I’m putting forward some fabulous summer looks from three independent UK brands, which can be worn by virtually all ages and which look set to be key trends over the coming months and I know the town’s other clothing retailers are as excited about this as I am.”
Other Darlington retailers taking part include Elan, Ruby’s, Boudoir, Joel Alexander and Coco, at Grange Road; Asquiths, Post House Wynd; Speccies, High Row; Marks and Spencer, Roman, Peacocks and Trespass, at Northgate and Claire’s Officers Club and Quiz, Cornmill Centre; Affleck and Moffatt and Poppy, Duke Street and Greenwoods, Skinnergate.
In the run up to the fashion show there will also be a programme of promotions and special events run by shops, restaurants and hotels in the town centre and Distinct Darlington manager, Alex Hirst, said: “as the date draws near, the buzz in the town is incredible.
“Darlington has long been a ‘go to’ destination for fashion lovers looking for both high street and designer items and we’re overjoyed that retailers big and small have really embraced the fashion show.
“It promises to be a great event for shoppers, retailers, visitors and residents of Darlington alike.”
For more information visit www.distinctdarlington.co.uk .