Onya Editor-in-Chief Sandi Sieger and Fashion Editor Sarah Kempson enjoy the MSFW Opening Night
Melbourne is a city known for its laneways and arcades; venues hidden around every bend, watering holes below the road and even high up above, so I imagine the planning committee was spoilt for choice when proposing locations for the launch of Melbourne Spring Fashion Week 2010. It is a wonder then how we ended up in a car park. Yes, a car park.
When the invitation arrived, I was a little concerned. Rumours were flowing about turf being laid and the thought of portaloos did not resonate at all with a fashionable event like this. The dress code stated; ‘unexpected opulence and fabulous glamour’… I was intrigued.
Frocks were chosen, accessories selected and shoes worn in. Friday night was on the cool side but there was an air of excitement to distract us and great expectations for the event. We were not disappointed. A ‘red’ carpet, laid out in faux grass, guided us to the entrance of the most fabulous car park I have ever had the privilege of being in. It was dramatic, opulent and glamorous – everything the invitation had promised and more.
Names were checked off lists, coats taken, photos snapped and champagne thrust in our direction. The space had been carpeted, well lit and heated and a central bar with access from four sides took pride of place in the centre, where nearby furniture was scattered strategically. A DJ and stage were across the room, leading to an outdoor marquee area, providing additional space for the numerous guests expected.
It was a lot to take in. Even the ceiling was adorned with fairy cut outs and along the walls several RMIT students showcased their work on mannequins. Just when thought you had seen it all, a model dressed in the MSFW colours lay in a glass box, posing for the guests who papped her on their iPhones, propping her head up on her arm, breathing through airholes.
Rebecca Madden was em cee of the evening, dressed in a royal purple strapless Ted Baker cocktail dress, while Lord Mayor Robert Doyle took another opportunity to interview the face of the festival, Lucy McIntosh, dressed by Alice Euphemia. Ruby Rose, MSFW Ambassador, was absent from the event.
With the formalities out of the way, DJ Poet of Black Eyed Peas fame (and engaged to the lovely Lucy) took to the decks and fashionistas took the chance to indulge in the fantastic hospitality put on by the City of Melbourne and the Atlantic Group. The food was in every way fabulous and plentiful, just like the champagne and the endless conversation and networking.
A special mention must be made of the notorious portaloos – also unexpectedly opulent.
The evening flew of course, as all good times do, and in a blur of black and a pop of pink, the fabulousness had come to an end. A decadent gift bag awaited and we tottered on our toes back down the grass carpet, ready to gear up for the huge week of fashion ahead.
