The secret is out
The best way to understand someone is by putting yourself in their shoes.
This is exactly what I did with the 23rd Annual Lisof Fashion Show. In weird and mysterious ways I ended up being not only an observer of the fashion show, but an actual participant! My first fashion show definitely didn’t go as I would have imagined. This experience however did give me an amazing perspective and back stage privileges, where I could capture the garments in all their glory, as well as have a chat with the designer herself before the chaos that is, pulling of a successful fashion show, started. I am happy to report back to you dear Passengers, so grab a seat and join the party!
The secret was out, the moment the first model appeared on stage. They were walking on the Taylor Swift hit, Style. This song as Liane explained to me, has given her inspiration throughout her designing and life journey, the song is certainly never going out of style now! She will always associate this song with her grand finale of her final year at LISOF.
Even though this was only in dress rehearsals, it was in fact the first time several people saw Liane Wolmarans’s creations! The crowd sat in awe of this Secret Tea Party that was taking place in front of them. I myself was mesmerized by the clothes. As I have also only seen mere sketches and raw material. The ensemble truly was the most fine, dainty, pastel china coming to life and going for a stroll. Her attention to detail is astonishing, every ruffle, frill, button, embroidery and embellishment was put their deliberately and with pure love. Liane even told me back stage how her mom was up all hours of the night finishing the embroidery on one of the dresses!
As I got a closer look at the garments back stage, my inner Alice was only reading, Wear me! Wear me! The colours and details were right up my alley and I fell in love with the garments. Sorry Passengers, but I am only going to sing praise about Liane’s creations, no Joan Rivers here…
Soft and feminine colours were used throughout this range
Mesh, lace, chiffon and floral print fabrics were mainly used in the Secret Tea Party range
Plus!!
A bonus of arriving early, was yes… watching the dress rehearsals, but also having the pleasure to explore the venue. The fashion show was held at 012 Central in Pretoria CBD. The area had great aesthetic and creative aspects in every corner, almost like being in a cocoon of authenticity.
The one detail that caught my eye was in fact the graffiti. Most people might not have noticed this, but that’s why I’m here! There were florals painted on one of the walls in the parking lot which would usually be normal but not in this case! This art piece was very similar to Liane’s Secret Tea Party range. It was surreal making the connection, all I could think about is the brilliant words of Bill Cunningham, “The best fashion show is definitely on the street. Always has been and always will be.” Now imagine coming across a piece like this and immediately seeing it reflect in fashion. Absolute Magic! Maybe I am romanticizing the idea, but Alice walked through walls to get to Wonderland and now walls were worn to create beautiful detail for a tea party.
All and all my first fashion show was chaotic and stressful, but I wouldn’t change a thing. The “back stage” pass and the on stage experience made this fashion show one for the books and the blog.
Liane is still figuring out what is next for her, but she knows where she is going! She is driven and determined to be her own boss and if her fashion range is any indicator of her potential, success isn’t far to follow.
That’s my Fashion Show experience passengers! I hope you enjoyed the trip and remember to make every platform your runway!