Just from the luxurious looking invite (exceptionally large with added cover -sleeve), I knew Michelle and I were in for a bit of a treat with the Qasimi show. Not only were we being invited to the grand Westminster City Hall, but we were asked to join the rest of the guests at an exclusive half an hour drinks reception before the show.
I’m wondering whether the drinks were a ploy to lull our sense of judgement, because there was so much champagne, I almost forgot the real reason I was there!
Michelle and I at the champagne reception
However, a continuous supply of champers wasn’t the only treat Qasimi had in store for us. To prevent their guests from having to endure that awkward pre-show emptiness where everyone sits about trying to guess who’s who in the front row, they employed an attractive pair of dancing violinists to entertain us while the rest of the guests took their seats.
Qasimi’s runway show was just as pleasurable as their pre-show luxuries. Considering they’re relatively new designers, they appeared to have thought the most about the performance aspect of their presentation. Set on Westminster’s towering stage, each of the dark haired models travelled down onto the catwalk before taking up a position on the rostrum.
The spring/summer collection itself was divided into two ready-to-wear and one couture section. A powerful and energetic violin led melody introduced us to chic LA secret agent style belted blazers, pencil skirts, fitted shirts, high-collared tailored jackets and jodhpurs, complimented by riding boots, Aviator shades and sleek hairdo’s.
A change in music indicated a shift in the collection to colonial Indian influenced silk dresses and pleated jumpsuits for the girls, and loose silk bottoms and light sleeveless tops for the boys.
Design duo Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi and Elliott J. Frieze had clearly left the best till last as we were treated to a show stopping performance from the stunning Erin O’Connor, whose sharp high-fashion movements, and elegant silhouette, was exactly what was need to pull off their beautiful crinoline couture gown.
Leaving Westminster Hall I felt a bit like I usually do when I’ve just watched a great theatre production – completely inspired. Clearly everybody else felt the same, as the collection was the only thing on anybody’s lips as we all made our way back to the tube.
Watch some of the show here:
