Vino, posh frocks and heels

Every now and then, an event comes along that really lights up my life. One from the past was the launch of Rachel Hunter's swimwear label, Lola. Mingling with celebrities like Jonah Lomu and Ali Williams, munching canapes and meeting the statuesque beauty herself all made an evening to remember.

Last night, my friend Caro and I were lucky enough to go to Moochi's Dress Party, which marked the opening of the new Moochi Corner store and also allowed a select few the opportunity to view and purchase the beautiful dresses of Dress Week a day before the public.

The store was decorated in stark white with large windows. Glamourous staff (most of whom Caro knew), circled with trays of drinks and nibbles while we browsed through racks of gorgeous dresses - slips, shifts with ruffles, ballet-style tutus, T-shirt dresses and the odd pantsuit or two. Shoppers glowed with perfect tans, perfect makeup and the aura that only comes when a woman is truly in her element. I met Moochi designer Kellie Taylor who was chic, bubbly and everything I expect a top designer to be.

Caro is an excellent shopping companion and soon I had an armful of frocks and was standing waiting for a changing room. I tried on dress after dress and was finally down to the fawn coloured Elegant dress with draped sides and the blush pink Scarlett dress with black straps. I was debating the colour and fit of the Scarlett, which was a little large, when Caro found a smaller mauve version and I was sold. It felt deliciously light, hugged in all the right places and the colour stood out against my slightly pale skintone. To top it all off, purchases over a certain amount came with a goodie bag filled with Dermalogica and Schwarzkopf Bonacure products. Caro and I staggered out giggling and flushed with success.

The price tag on my dress was more than I had ever paid for a single item of clothing but I didn't care. The entire experience was enjoyable and if I really had to justify the price, the dress is 100% silk and made in New Zealand, so I am supporting a local business.

It was the first time I have ever bought anything from Moochi, but I will definitely go back. Everything was good quality and the service was excellent. The store is a destination in itself.

Maybe I could get some new shoes to go with my dress?

www.moochi.co.nz/dressweek.asp