Organisers are hoping that Ipswich will be put on the map next month with the arrival of its first-ever Fashion Week.

The inaugural event, which runs from October 8-12, is set to draw in fashion fans from all corners of the county to catch a glimpse of this season’s must-have trends.

Pam Davis, who owns style company Fashion Candy, is running the event in partnership with Ipswich Central.

She is hoping ticket sales for the evening fashion show will be buoyed with guest appearances from X Factor and The Only Way Is Essex stars.

Ms Davis said: “Next of Kin, who are through to X Factor bootcamp, will be performing two songs at the fashion show while there will be appearances from TOWIE’s Bobby Norris and Gemma Collins.

“It’s just amazing to have Next of Kin here as they appeal to all ages and both genders which is what Ipswich Fashion Week is all about.

“They are a great band and will hopefully draw in the crowds.”

Ipswich Fashion Week launches on October 7 at the Corn Exchange and Town Hall before hair and beauty days on Tuesday and Thursday, fashion shows on Wednesday at 12.30pm and 7.30pm, a styling day with Fashion Candy on Friday and culminating with a Suffolk New College day on Saturday.

Paul Clement, chief executive at Ipswich Central, said: “Town centres of the future are not just about shopping but instead, they are about creating an all-round experience for a visitor.

“We are very keen therefore to support companies like Fashion Candy in their quest to bring exciting events such as Ipswich Fashion Week to our town centre and help put us on the map in people’s minds when they are planning what to do with their time.

“Running from the October 8-12, the event is a great showcase of what our fantastic retailers have to offer.

“The link with the X factor’s Next of Kin is also a real coup as they are hugely popular.”

Tickets are available at various stores across Ipswich including Coes, Baiss & Co, Paul Henri and Urban Vintage.

All days will run from 10am to 4pm with the exception of the fashion shows. A four-day pass costs £5 and fashion show tickets cost £15 each.

Visit www.allaboutipswich.com/fashionweek for a full list of businesses taking part in Ipswich Fashion Week.