There was not a spare seat to be had when an independent clothes shop held its first fashion show in eight years after saying they would never do it again.
Models strutted down the catwalk at Bridport Town Hall as Smith & Smith Ltd showed off its collection at its fashion show last Thursday.
Between staff and attendees, the town hall, which can house 100 people, was at capacity.
It showcased some of the new spring/summer ranges for both men and women, letting local people see what this 139-year-old independent Bridport shop on West Street currently has to offer and raise money for The Fortuneswell Cancer Trust.
Sue England, who owns Smith & Smith with her sister, said: “It was a good opportunity to show off our spring/summer ranges and raise money for a good cause.
“We don’t do these very often. Eight years ago after doing one, we said we would never do it again, you wouldn’t believe the work that goes into it.
“It’s hard work, but it’s fun. That’s the thing, we didn’t want it to be polished, we wanted it to be a fun evening.”
Bright, organic cotton dresses, tops, jumpsuits, and cool comfortable trousers were shown off confidently by the ladies while the men were most definitely not left out.
Their outfits were both casual and formal. Easy-care cotton trousers, polo shirts and jackets were displayed alongside more formal suits.
Ms England remarked that there was a particular interest in sustainable and responsibly sourced clothes than eight years ago.
The models who walked down the catwalk were made up of staff, friends, family, and Mayor Ian Bark.
Mayor Bark said: “I wore a very nice three-piece suede suit, which I am told made me look younger and extremely elegant, so I am kind of having my arm twisted to buy it. I also wore a colourful outfit that would rival Michael Portillo.
“It was great fun and a good amount of money was raised for a great cause. A big thank you to the staff at Smith & Smith for all the time and effort they put into organising.”
The event was held in aid of The Fortuneswell Cancer Trust at Dorset Council Hospital and raised more than £1,300.
“We all know people who have been helped by Fortuneswell, so for us, it was a no-brainer," added Sue England.
“Thank you to everyone who was involved, we are very grateful to everyone who helped and to our suppliers who donated some wonderful raffle prizes.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here