Fashion expo empowers women

Revati Ilanko, left, with and Naureen Choudhry. 194419_02. Picture: ROB CAREW

By Brendan Rees

An exhibition of traditional sarees and wedding attire from countries along the famed Silk Road will be launched at Bunjil Place library this weekend.

This event, ‘She Blossoms,’ which is part of the City of Casey’s 17th annual Winter Arts Festival, will be presented by Kalpavriksha Sarees and Handicrafts and the Circle of Peace, Inc.

Activities include flower crown making, henna body art, and community art pieces.

The event aims to create a platform for women’s empowerment through art and fashion, says secretary of the Circle of Peace Naureen Choudhry, who came up with the project idea with her friend Revati IIanko, who is also a member of Casey Arts and Cultural Advisory Committee.

“We chose this name because we want women, especially brides who are starting a new phase in their life, to feel inspired and emboldened to bring about a change not only in themselves but in the people around them,” the pair said.

The launch will be held on Sunday 16 June at 11.30am and everyone is invited to partake in the unveiling of the mannequins and an art activity. The free event will run until to 27 July.