By Alesha Capone
A pair of unique dresses, made of fabric which comes from tree bark, will be on show at this year’s Fashion Awards Australia in Hoppers Crossing.
Fashion designers Minh Nguyen and William Thi, who live in St Albans, made the garments in just two days.
The material used is called cork fabric, which is made from the bark of the cork oak tree.
Mr Nguyen and Mr Thi both took part in last year’s awards. They said awards director Heather Marcus asked them to create the dresses this year in order to show the versatility of cork fabric, which was supplied by awards sponsor Birch Creative.
“I think for me, because of the leopard print, I wanted to do something tribal,” Mr Nguyen said.
Mr Thi said: “For me, personally I love working with unconventional fabrics.”
Both men, who have their own individual fashion labels – MINDUC and William Thi – said they would also be entering other garments in this year’s fashion awards.
“I placed third in racewear last year, so I’m itching to see if I can improve this year,” Mr Thi said.
“I’m graduating this year and I definitely pushed my limits and created some really great gowns, and I’m looking forward to celebrating on the night with my friends who will be there,” Mr Nguyen said.
The Fashion Awards Australia Awards will be held on Friday, October 11 at the Encore Centre, Hoppers Crossing.
Details: www.fashionawardsaustralia.org.au/
