MAIN PHOTOGRAPH: Through the shop window on Willis Street during the 10th anniversary party. FROM TOP: Laurie Foon (right) and friend. More from the Laurie Foon autumn–winter range. The guests assembled at the event. An earlier example of Starfish activism: ‘By-pass my ass’ from the Activate collection, protesting a freeway extension that would have ruined communities in central Wellington, New Zealand. LEFT: Catwalk photographs from Laurie Foon autumn–winter 2003.

   Foon and Carleen Schollum's Laurie Foon label is positioned as a luxe brand, complementing the Starfish items. In the company's own words, 'Starfish clothes are wardrobe saviours, the mainstay favourites. The Laurie Foon range is strongly thematic and directional, the luxe pieces to covet.'
   Though they may be surprised at how many have coveted their Starfish pieces.
   Guests were treated not only to lychee cocktails, but to a three-model showing of items from the latest Laurie Foon range, while on the shop floor it was a virtual fashion show with

Activism has ensured that Starfish has refreshingly not become a mainstream, boring brand

many decked out in their favourite Starfish items from the last decade. The models blended in. It was a testament to the creative eye of everyone at Starfish that the items had hardly dated and possessed a keen and slightly edgy style.
   Entitled Global Citizens, the autumn-winter 2003 Laurie Foon range was memorable for its launch at L'Oréal New Zealand Fashion Week. The company scattered petals on its catwalk, presided over by miniature buddhas. The range itself used shirring and warm colours such as browns, pastel pinks and reds, contrasted by cooler olive-greens and blacks.
   Fabrics were contrasted with satins placed with cords and ribs. Fabrication was emphasized with woven patterns, embroideries and felted edge stitching on wrapped jackets. Sleeves seemed to be at a consistent seven-eighths' length and flared from the shoulder.
   Starfish continued the evening with an after-party at trendy Wellington bar-café, the Matterhorn. The event was supported by MAC Cosmetics, San Pellegrino, Red Bull, 42 Below, Moschino and Lalique. •

Jack Yan is founding publisher of Lucire.

Based in part on an earlier article by Sally-ann Moffat.