Norwich Fashion Week launches tonight with the Independent Retailers fashion show, but shops are already getting into the style swing with window displays to celebrate fashion in the city.

Shop windows in Norwich got a makeover to mark the launch of Norwich Fashion Week today.

Mannequins were made up, windows were washed and dazzling displays have been created by students from City College Norwich and the Retail Skills Academy.

The window displays are part of a competition run by the Retail Skills Academy which is part of City College Norwich's bid to find the best-dressed window at Norwich Fashion Week. Shop owners have been working with a student from City College Norwich and the Retail Skills Academy to show the art in styling a fashion-conscious window display.

The competition has seen entries from seven shops including Antidote Vintage, Dreams Bridal, Nola, The Tannery, All's Fair, Pure and Winsor Bishop, which has recently opened its newly-expanded shop in London Street.

Managing director of Winsor Bishop, Sophie Fulford, who has been working with student Rachel Johnson, said: 'We are really pleased to support students from City College and their part in Norwich Fashion Week. The innovative concepts really bring our new ranges to life.'

Head of the Retail Skills Academy, Sue Dougal, believes the competition will open people's eyes to the many career opportunities available in the retail industry.

'Retail is not just about being on the shop floor, there are many different career paths you can take,' said Ms Dougal.

'This competition gives retailers the opportunity to get fresh ideas for their window display that will hopefully attract more customers.

'It is also a great opportunity to bridge the gap between education and retail.'

The winner will be announced tonight at the Norwich Fashion Week Independent Retailers show.

See all the window displays in the competition in our photo gallery by clicking the link at the top right of this page.

For your definitive guide to Norwich Fashion Week pick up a copy of today's Norwich Evening News.