Certificate IV and Diploma in Applied Fashion and Technology students have spent days sketching, cutting and stitching a ‘‘fashion on the field’’ look for Cooper to judge.

The runway show, to be held at Stockland Shellharbour, was won last year by student Cathy Odri who is entering another dress in Saturday’s event.

She is hoping her latest ensemble, inspired by historic Meroogal house in Nowra, will impress.

‘‘It’s a strapless cocktail dress made of linen and lace,’’ she said.

‘‘I was really inspired by the colours and trims of Meroogal so I wanted to work that into the dress.’’

Ms Odri’s success earned her the chance to shadow Cooper in his Paddington headquarters - the prize on offer for this year’s winner.

‘‘It was really insightful,’’ she said.

‘‘I got the chance to be involved in discussions, look at fabrics for his upcoming range and sit in on fittings.

‘‘I just got a better insight into the whole industry; coming from Nowra, I can’t get that sort of experience so it was great to have that opportunity.’’

Cooper will judge designs based on detail, construction, aesthetic and the designer’s ability to succeed in fashion.

The runway show is on at 1pm in Centre Court (near Woolworths).