For our inaugural FQ Fashion Awards, Morningside’s Glasshouse venue became the city’s epicentre of fashion’s elite, as our community gathered in black tie attire to celebrate the collective achievements of Aotearoa’s fashion industry. A metallic chrome runway spanned the length of the glasshouse while dazzling seed lights woven through the magnolia trees reflected off the glass ceilings. Outside, the temperature was cool with a scattering of light rain, our guests desperate to get inside. Just through the entrance, a haven constructed from mirrors formed the backdrop for Belvedere Vodka’s coat check and caviar station where our VIPs shed their outerwear to reveal their finest threads. Once their cloaks were safely stowed, waiters presented Belvedere Vodka Martinis and world-class caviar by CAVIARMAFIA on a silver platter ready to be spooned or bumped. The time to celebrate has arrived.

The space soon filled, humming with conversation and the enigmatic tunes from the DJ booth. Numerous photographers waded through the crowd snapping guests with covetable style. There were New Zealand designers sighted on guests – both current and archived pieces – and mesmerising combinations worth saving for later. But it was clear which accessory you wouldn’t want to be seen without: a Belvedere Vodka Martini in hand.