What: Dans La Vie SS12
Where: Vauxhall Fashion Scout, Freemasons Hall
When: Sunday 18th September, 4.45pm
The lights dim and pre-show chatter shushes. The opening gospel of ‘Like a Prayer’ lends its atmosphere, as the first girl comes down the catwalk.
Dans La Vie’s SS12 is inspired by Tokyo in the aftermath of the earthquake in March, the theme ‘Clash Beauty’ and what are termed the Four Pop Madonna’s: Madonna (obv), Amy Winehouse, Rihanna and Lady Gaga and the show is split into four sections by this soundtrack.
Breton stripes met pop in plastic coated outerwear, with Da Vinci inspired prints. As Back to Black blared out from the soundsystem, more sombre hues appeared – complete with cross motifs and see through chiffon.
My favourite piece was a floor length prom style black skirt with a hint of off-duty sugar plum fairy. Vey wearable, if you’re six feet tall.
The Gaga finale track announced a tit tape and balloon skirt combo with bright blue lips – another highlight.
The last look seemed to sum up the collection: a gorgeous headdress with a hint of the ecclesiastical, a barely there blouse and 50s/Pop inspired skirt. Don’t be a drag - just be a queen.
Words Helene Charara.
