Review: Catwalk

Saturday night marked not only the end of RAG Week but also the start of the fashion show ‘season’, with Catwalk taking the stage.

Catwalk is unique in its mix of both stadium seating and VIP tables, and despite the event being a complete sell out it did perhaps seem that the people in the stadium seating and the people on the ground were at quite different events.

VIP guests were treated to goody bags including discount vouchers for stores in St Andrews, pens, bubble gum and even pick-and-mix.  Aside from the goody bags the tables were also treated to drinks including bottles of Sparkling Perry (not quite champagne, but everyone appeared to enjoy it) and bottles of Barefoot wine.

The theme for the evening was “Life in Print” which although seemed like an interesting concept, there as little in the show itself to indicate this theme apart from the printed tablecloths on the VIP tables.

A huge obstacle for the organisers was obviously the union revamp, which made the area outside Venue 1 crowded, chaotic and confusing as guests entered the venue, and The Accidentals’ performance seemed somewhat lost in a sea of models, committee and jumbled guests.

Brands ranged from New Look to Anthropologie to St Andrews’ own Curiosity Shop, displaying a broad range of styles and looks.  The Anthropologie collection was a highlight , and the range compiled from the Cancer Research store on South Street also put a fresh twist on the fashion show.  Whatever the brand or clothing, as expected the models looked stunning in outfits that I wish I could put together myself.   A low point for much of the audience however, was definitely the underwear section, which seemed a little out of place as there was no sponsored brand, and also made me put down my glass of perry and made me promise that I will sign up for the gym on Monday.

The show would not have been the same without the music, provided by April Vellacott.  Her set complemented the show perfectly with a fresh mix of recognisable chart tunes which kept everyone energetic and those at VIP tables on their feet dancing. It also set the tone perfectly for the after party, which took place at The Vic (where else?!).

From the audience’s perspective the show was prepped, polished, and rehearsed to perfection and it became clear how much time and effort had been invested into the finale event of RAG Week.  It was all for a good cause – the proceeds will go towards the university’s three nominated RAG Week charities: Doctors Without Borders, Macmillan Cancer Support and Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centres. The total from the night will hopefully also have been boosted from the raffle which offered some fantastic prizes such as a meal at Hams Hame and a pair of Hunter wellies.

Overall, Catwalk was a fresh and fun evening, which I would highly recommend to anyone.  It may not have the prestige of FS or DONT WALK yet, comparing any of them is a hard task.  It really was just good fashion fun, all for a good cause.

 Images courtesy of Lightbox Creative