Finance Minister Nicola Willis criticised for wearing UK dress on Budget day

Finance Minister Nicola Willis faced criticism for wearing a British dress instead of a New Zealand designer at the 2025 Budget announcement, with industry figures asserting the importance of supporting local fashion. The dress, believed to be from The Fold London, drew negative reactions, including from Caroline Marr of The Carpenter’s Daughter, who described the choice as a “total disrespect” to the local fashion sector. The New Zealand fashion industry significantly contributed $7.8 billion to the economy in 2023, employing 76,000 workers, highlighting its vital role.

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