“Liberty” - the theme chosen by the Durban Institute of Technology for its 2004 Fashion Show, offers an appropriate platform for the city's budding young designers to show their paces while joining in the nation-wide celebrations of South Africa's 10 Years of Democracy.

The much-anticipated annual showcase of upcoming young designers, many of whom are soon to enter the professional fashion industry, takes place this year from October 6 to 8. The venue will be the Fred Crookes Sport Centre on DIT's Steve Biko Campus (access through gate 4, Mansfield Road).

A total of 60 students will participate in the run-up to the event, 30 per night at 19h00 on October 6 and 7 respectively. The 20 ranges adjudged the best by a panel of established designers over these two evenings will be shown during a Friday evening gala event on October 8 at 19h00.

The event is supported by a wide range of professional service providers in the fashion and entertainment industry, including Black Coffee Productions (stage and lighting); Tiffany Prior of Ice Models Agency (choreography and production); Duncan and team from Headstart (hair); with make-up by DIT's Department of Entertainment Technology.

Firms offering sponsored prizes include Holmes Brothers, Lab Clothing, Frame Group, Kingsgate, Seardel Group, John Peter Clothing, Durban Designer Emporium, Edcon, Fashion World, MC Thompson and local fabric stores.

Tickets R35 (downstairs) and R15 (gallery). Booking is through Computicket.