By Katrina Doran.

West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK kicked off last night (Thursday 13th October) at Belfast's Europa Hotel with a stunning catwalk show featuring the Autumn Winter collections available to buy now from independent boutiques and local designers from across Northern Ireland.

Statuesque models took to the runway in a range of clothes from local luxury boutiques Candy Plum, Hillsborough, SJ Boutique, Magherafelt, Paparazzi, Lisburn, Elegance, Lurgan, Rebecca Jane, Crossgar, Silk, Newry and Lisburn Road stores Jourdan, Orchid Lingerie and Blush and designers Una Rodden, Grainne Maher and Jude Cassidy.

Cathy Martin, FASHIONWEEK Director, said: "The FASHIONWEEK designers pulled out all the stops with every style and taste catered for from gorgeous jewel tones to bold, bright block colour visible in a dizzying array of designer shoes, coats, dresses, hats, scarves and jewellery.

The shows continue tonight (Friday 14 October) with the 'High Street Heaven' show where brands such as French Connection, Firetrap, Marks & Spencer, Jigsaw, Republic & George at ASDA; CastleCourt brands including GAP, Miss Selfridge, Warehouse, New Look, Exhibit, Designers at Debenhams and The Outlet in Banbridge showcasing brands such as LK Bennett, Pilot, Oasis, Viyella, DKNY are set to showcase their Autumn Winter collection.

For further information, log on to www.belfastfashionweek.com.

Pictured top: show finale featuring Blush bridal and occassionwear.

Pictured left: Model Jovita wears Grainne Maher Millinery and Jude Cassidy.