Review: FS – The Show

Less Zoolander, much more Anna Wintour.


To say FS is on the top of the fashion show-chain is something of an understatement.  The 22nd annual charity fashion show kicked off the weekend in traditional fashionista-flare, as well as a hell of a lot of glitter.  A philanthropic cause that over the years has raised over £350,000, FS welcomed revellers to not only a show to remember, but to take part in raising funds for the Association for International Cancer Research.  Proving that this night was not one to be easily forgotten.

With a champagne reception for VIP guests starting off the evening, the bubbles were flowing from the word go.  The Bright Young Things theme that welcomed the revellers was reflected in the stunning 1920s esque illustrations by 4th year artist, Miss Millie Mae, arranged around the bar.  The presence of the winning designs of the ‘Young Designer Award’, Jos Swinnerton, further reminded guests of the impressive talent which helped to make the entire show.  Designers, models and committee members were all equally important and should be congratulated on creating a mesmerising experience.

Once the PWC tables had filled up, every champagne bottle had been popped, and the excitement was getting almost unbearable; the lights dimmed, the music blasted and the opening sequence began.  Glitter rained and everyone was cheering on the models, as well as the night that was getting well and truly underway.  For an opening sequence the choreography was astounding; riveting doesn’t seem to do it justice.  Fabulously enthralling could perhaps just cover it.

The models were impeccably professional, not a cheeky wave or wink were to be seen, their seriousness only enhanced the polished performance of the whole show.  The fashion itself was breathtaking, with such designers as Hackett, Topman, Saunt & Sinner, Rebecca Torres, and Judy Clark. Casual wear, high fashion, ball gowns, Bongo-esque suits, underwear and shoes; each outfit was stunning and flawlessly put together.  I wanted everything, and was utterly disappointed by the thought/fact that I could never pull them off as wonderfully as the models. *sigh*

As the show came to a close, every guest was ecstatic with a combination of alcohol and having just seen something worthy of any runway from Milan to Paris.  Spirits were higher than have ever been seen before in St Andrews, so when it came to the follow-up auction bids were being offered from all angles.

As a night out in the bubble, FS certainly sets the bar high.  In fact, I don’t think any other event can even come close to the evening offered to us on Lower College Lawn.  Champagne, fashion, great music, great people, and enough aesthetic pleasures to give you an eye-gasm, FS has proved itself yet again as the only place to be.

All Photo Credits to: Ekin Arslan, Gala Netylko, Sammi McKee, and Mike DePaoli.