MOVE over Milan - York is to get its first ever fashion week this year.

Fashion City York (FCY) is launching a week-long celebration of fashion and style to help showcase the city’s thriving talent, style and creativity.

FCY have been organising annual fashion events since 2013, but this year, they’re offering seven days of exciting shows.

The week itself will take place from April 16 and 22, but the brochure for the event is being launched at Marks & Spencer on Pavement, in York city centre tomorrow at 6pm.

This is a free event and everyone is welcome to come along for a preview of what is in store for the city in April.

Fashion City York chairman, Angela Horner, said: “There are so many ways for the public to get involved during the week and we are proud to offer something for everyone.

“We have been amazed by the support and enthusiasm from both big-name brands and independents. These are exciting times for York and just show again how collaborative business are in this city.

“We have ambitions to grow this as a destination event and draw in more visitors from outside the city to benefit our retailers and boost hotel occupancy.”

York couturier Antonia Houston - who is best known for her one-off wedding and evening dresses under the Blossom and Belle label - will have the honour of opening fashion week with her Yorkshire Dandy collection, inspired by the pastel-hued macaroons at Bettys Tea rooms, where the label is set to be launched.

She has teamed up with Meiji Design - who operate from a studio in Monks Cross - for handmade silk scarves, and Knot & Bloom for vintage and handmade headdresses.

Further events lined up for April include catwalk shows and beauty sessions at some of the city’s iconic hotels and restaurants, as well as a fashion hub at Shambles market and a revealing talk - Unmentionables: A Brief History of Underwear - at the Castle Museum.

There will also be a range of fun events to inspire youngsters.

For full details and to book tickets go to www.yorkfashionweek.co.uk, or pick up a brochure from venues including Visit York on Museum Street.