Fashion fans from all around the country descended on the NEC to pick up bargain vintage finds, the coolest clothing brands and the latest hair and make-up tips at the Clotheshow Live 2004. After 2003's disappointing and dated-looking show (read last year's review by clicking here) it was clear that the event needed a makeover of its own. With the help of supermodel Erin O'Connor, creative director of the catwalk show, this year I felt that Clotheshow Live had reagained some street cred.
 Towering over T4's June Sarpong, local girl Erin introduced her stunning catwalk show. Pop star Darius kicked off the visual feast with a live song before the models started shimmying down the walkway. Erin chose some beautiful pieces created by the most-coveted names in the fashion world: Alberta Ferretti, Anna Sui, Dries Van Noten, Clements Ribiero and Jean Paul Gaultier. The exhilarating show also featured clothes available to buy on the stands. Key trends included: embellished capes, monochrome with red accents, hot pinks, rainbow colours, Wild West style, cartoon and vintage prints.
 Outside the fashion theatre, the various 'zones' had genuine bargains on offer from established brands such as All Saints, and French Connection to one-off couture pieces and the freshest talent from art schools and colleges. For me, highlights included the Battersea Vintage Fair - selling beautiful designer clothes and accessories from a bygone age. Lulu and Red solved the eternal question of what to wear to the Christmas party by offering bustle-style skirts, 100% silk dresses and assymetrical striped tops - all starting from £15! (www.lulu-red.com) And for hair product junkies, TIGI did not disappoint. The lively stage show pepped-up flagging fashionistas. Their bumper bags of products provided some of the biggest savings on the day. The verdict: What a difference from last year! A professional catwalk show, improved stands and some quality control have rejuvenated the event. If you are keen on becoming a model or want a career in fashion then this is the place to come for help and advice. :: Clotheshow Live runs until 8th December at the NEC. Box office: 0870 902 0555 or www.clotheshowlive.com. Been to the show? We'd love to hear from you - just complete the form below and we'll put your comments on the site! Here's what you had to say... Rachel, Newport: I loved the Clotheshow, although only 14 I thought it was fabulous, the show has inspired me to become a catwalk model all, I need now is to become a few years older and get my first agent/contract. Donn Natasha Canty, Kidderminster: I felt that the Clotheshow was really good this year, I went two years ago and didnt think alot of it so I didn't go last year.
I felt that it was a lot better. The catwalk show was amazing and it was really good to have less market stalls and more designer stalls.
I went with my friends that had never been before and the all enjoyed and all want to go again next year. So good stuff - thought it was great! Read more comments on the next page... | 
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