SITARA* 2015 Reviewed

SITARA* truly is a show like no other. Wrapping up fashion season in St Andrews, this fusion of art, design, and South Asian influence differentiates itself from FS and Don’t Walk, which focus on high-fashion and edgier styles. From their open model auditions to their combination of fashion, dance, and performance art, SITARA* is a diverse experience that gives guests an experience that sets itself apart and takes them away from St Andrews for a night of South Asian culture.

Moving from Younger Hall to a newly built marquee at Station Park signified a major change for this year’s show. As guests arrived at The Old Course Hotel, they were welcomed into a spacious dance floor and catwalk that was beautifully decorated. VIP guests were welcomed into private tables surrounding the runway, where they could help themselves to poppadoms and fishbowls of WKD as they waited for the show to start. While regular guests were separated by the stage, they had plenty of space to move around despite the more intimate style of the venue, and access to a fully stocked bar and photo booth all night. Once everyone arrived, I could see saris, bindis, and a sample of fashion that truly exemplified the diversity of the event.

Guests soon forgot about the style of the venue as the lights turned down and models took to the stage. With looks inspired by this year’s diverse theme, Street Culture, each design was unique and captivating, providing a style that cannot be found at any other show. While guests cheered wildly for models, they only grew louder as actors and dancers performed a story influenced by street culture throughout the show. From start to finish, the programme was wildly impressive and kept guests entertained all night.

With such an amazing event, it is only fitting that proceeds go towards an amazing charity. This year, SITARA* had a theme that connected with their hand-picked charity. The committee this year chose to honour SOS Children’s Village: Multan, a charity based in Pakistan which is dedicated to providing homes for orphans and abandoned children.

A phenomenal evening overall, there were only a few faults I found in the night. The chief complaint of guests, which numbered around 400, was that there were only four (I repeat: FOUR) port-a-loos for use over the course of the night. Queues were long enough to drive guests to the science block at some point. And while the intimacy of the venue is a major part of the night, some people were less than happy about the clear divide between VIP and standard. This is the common problem found at St Andrews events, so I cannot hold the committee at fault. Overall, I truly believe SITARA* put on a fantastic night, and they showcased talent in a way no other event does. I had a smashing evening, and was very pleased to find the Blackhorn stand waiting for me outside when I called it a night.

For everyone who failed to get tickets, don’t make the same mistake next year. SITARA* is a night not to be missed on the St Andrews social calendar.

All photographs courtesy of Callum Hyland Photography