12:00a.m. 3rd July 2008

| By Nikki Parkinson

Model Ellanor Gowland wears an outfit from Julie Durieu's upcoming spring collection. Jewellery from Pearls for Girls, Mooloolaba and Noosa.

A 15-metre runway, 12 models, exquisite clothes and an historical theatre. Add in a Noosa-based designer with styling flair and you have a fashion experience to rival no other.

“I was originally thinking of opening my home to show my spring/summer 2008 collection but then I went out to see the theatre (Pomona’s Majestic) and I changed the whole concept,” says Julie Durieu.

The Durieu label’s popularity continues to grow.

It is stocked in boutiques in Sydney and Melbourne and is sold through an agent in Europe. Julie also has Sunshine Coast clients, who buy direct from her.

Up until now, the label has focused on washable silk pieces for women – elegant pieces that travel easily.

“To date, it’s been about holidays and travelling and I’ll always keep that as part of my collection – the clients love it,” says Julie.

“With this spring/summer 2008 collection I’m introducing more tailored pieces, e.g. jackets. The collection is sophisticated and also includes evening wear,” she says.

“The only way to see it is at the show.”

And what a show it will be.

Models will show 50 pieces. Black and white garments feature prominently but green, red and a “dazzling” blue will also pepper the summer colour palette.

Fabrics include the Durieu signature washable silk, “backed” silk, Italian viscose and metal. Faye Rolph Models are featuring in the show and hair is by The Lustre Hair Salon, Castaway Beach, Noosa.

The Durieu Fashion Show Monday, July 7, 6-8pm, tickets $25 each. Phone 5455 6041