When it comes to fully immersing yourself in an occasion, nothing beats dressing the part.

If you’re heading to the Katikati A&P Show at Uretara Domain on Sunday, February 2, that’s made easy by heritage enthusiast Tee Carroll.

“When you put on an outfit from older times, you really do feel as though you’re a settler arriving here in a strange land. It makes you part of it all,” Carroll said.

With a background in teaching, her passion for creating clothing from bygone eras began as what she describes as a “bit of a mistake”.

“In 2007, I became a volunteer at Athenree Homestead, a restored heritage home from the 1880s. I’m a tour guide and I thought it would be fun to dress the part.”

Carroll was soon also dressing visitors up for photographs and now, along with friend Tiri Sosich who assists, she designs and creates outfits for community events and parties.

“I love to repurpose op-shop clothes,” she said. “I realised that I could take a velvet jacket and make it look Victorian, Edwardian or even steampunk and then whip up a hat to go with it. We’ve even made Gatsby-style outfits for people going to Napier’s Art Deco Festival.”

“Tee’s outfits are amazing,” Katikati A&P Show committee member Sheryl Smith said. “Whenever we need costumes, she loans them to us and only asks for a donation for charity. She’s that kind of person; she’s very supportive of the community.”

For the 100th Katikati A&P Show, attendees are encouraged to get dressed in outfits representing the era from 1913 to 1925, and take part in a fashion parade, complete with prizes up for grabs. Carroll has clothes on display at The Arts Junction with some that residents can borrow.

“It’s just a fun event, not a competition. We have something for everyone to wear,” said Carroll. “Any age group, any body shape. Once they put on a hat and some jewellery and look in the mirror, they go away with a smile on their face. I just love it.”

For more information on costumes, email thecarrollz@xtra.co.nz