Filed under: fashion
I stalked into the freezing departure hall of T3 with trepidation, not knowing what to expect at the female NÜYOU catwalk spring/summer 08. To my relief, the guests have only just arrived, bright painted faces mingling amidst an unimaginative monochrome palette. ‘Boring’, I sniffed, failing to note that yours truly was wearing a white halter and black boho skirt.
From my vantage point at the Coffee Club, I had a clear view of the Row 1 check-in counters which were converted into a four-path runway. To capitalise on the airport flight theme, the emcee threw in phrases like ‘ready for boarding’ and ‘may you enjoy a smooth journey’ as illustrious people like Dick Lee sauntered to their seats. Sponsors were announced to general indifference an only a smattering of applause. The audience perked up at the mention of Valentino R.E.D. To my utmost disappointment, it was not the legendary designer’s swansong collection in signature red, but something more wearable. They were mostly unconnected, but foretold the trends to come in later brands. For example, the gracefully overlapping V-shaped neckline, exaggerated sleeves, jutting angularly or in soft frills, and tiered dresses.
Next up was MOSCHINO cheap n chic, which I initially pooh-poohed but turned out surprisingly refreshing. As the models struck their starting pose, the oversized shirts with illustrations of Audrey Hepburnish figures in red lips and shades screamed out even from afar. This is a current trend of creative directors who fancy themselves as artists. On closer inspection, the rich materials like silk and brocade on other pieces contrasted with the simple cotton tees, some even had glittery threads woven into them. The bubble skirt got me thinking, ‘Is it true that what is featured in luxury brands trickle down to the masses and become fashion staples or the other way round?’
Then I practically wet myself at the sight of the epitome of feminine beauty, DVF (Diane von Fusternburg) models in sensuous dresses that enhanced the assets. The pretty bow on an air-stewardess shirtdress must have made more than a few men fantasize about undoing it. My favourite, however, were the long flowy ‘summer gowns’ in amorphous blobs or geometric strokes; the bold patterns and busy prints clashed nicely to form a pleasing composition. I glanced wistfully as the dress billowed out beautifully into the backstage, of only I could wear one for my tropical wedding.
The Parisian brand Christina Lacroix was asexual in comparison, the models wore nude make-up, and eye-grabbing scarves twisted into their hair that resembled tribal headgear. For the city known for its architectural wonder the Eiffel Tower, the clothes took a hint from the structural elements. Pleated dresses exuded muted elegance, sharply tailored jackets, with bell sleeves starting at the mid upper arm and tapering to the wrist, atypical collars, with two open flaps that defied gravity. Overall it embodied the modern women and not a romantic damsel in distress, it is, after all, the 21st century!
Last but not least, the finale, set to the saccharine sweet ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’ was apt after the overdose of eye candy. I felt that it ended all too soon, my first real taste of international fashion. In addition, I have newfound respect for the professionalism of these ethereal models wafting across the stage; they look good enough to eat!
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