MANNEQUIN PARADE

Southland Times, Issue 21178, 3 September 1930, Page 14

MANNEQUIN PARADE

FINAL PAGEANTS STAGED. A CHALLENGE ANSWERED. With all the pomp of an Old World pageant, yet with the restraint of the modern fashion display, the series of mannequin parades, arranged by the. firm of H. and J. Smith, Ltd., in connection with Industries Week, was brought to a successful conclusion yesterday evening. At both afternoon and evening performances, large audiences were charmed with the work of New Zealand manufacturers, displayed in all types of frocks and suits for tiny tots and adults. The culminating point of the evening performance, a bridal scene, evoked much enthusiasm, and must have convinced even the most ardent supporter of imported models that the skill shown in the manufacture of Dominion goods makes them worthy to be worn by the most discriminating bride and her attendants. That the work of Dominion manufacturers now resembles closely that of Continental experts was proved during the display, when the New Zealand origin of three coats was challenged by someone in the audience. The coats were again demonstrated, and Mr J. W. Smith explained that to the best of his belief, and knowledge, no garment sent on to the stage was less than 50-per cent, a New Zealand production. Mr S. G. Bailey, organizer of the parade, said that the first coat made of dyed goat, was manufactured in Wellington. It was trimmed with wolf fur, dyed at Palmerston North, and the percentage of New Zealand labour in the whole garment was about 60 per cent. The second fur coat, the skins of flank squirrel, had been dressed in New Zealand, while the wolf trimming had been bleached in Dunedin, where the whole coat was manufactured. The approximate percentage of labour in the whole cost of the garment, was not less than 85 per cent. The third coat, which was of tweed. Mr Bailey explained had been designed and made in Dunedin of tweed woven at Onehunga. The trimmings were of New Zealand fur and excluding the lining, which was British, the garment was 100 per cent. New Zealand manufacture. At the conclusion of the performance the mannequins and all who had assisted with the organization of the pageant, grouped themselves on the stage, while a flashlight photo was taken. Gifts of boxes of chocolates were presented to all mannequins from Mr and Mrs J. W. Smith. Mr Smith said that he was proud to be associated with the Dominion-wide movement for the popularizing of Dominion goods. Ke then thanked the members of the Plunkef. Society, the mannequins, members of his own staff and Mr S. G. Bailey for their assistance and enthusiasm. As a result of the parade, more than £4O would be added to the. funds of the Plunket Society.