We are so excited about the new collaboration between  1 Love T.0. and Roots Canada on the “Show Your Roots” campaign. Their first release is this cute and cozy limited edition Vintage Heather Grey T-shirt featuring the iconic 1 Love T.O. logo.

Hands down the best part Fashion Week is getting to see new and old faces, the outlandish fashions and of course the parties. Peep some of the goodies from the week!!!

That’s right you saw the TWO deadly words “Fashion Week“- it’s back. First on deck the is the notorious Rogue Fashion Week, where the rebellious non-conformist designers decide to show.

BASCH IT UP

The best thing we can do to keep the fashion frontier going is to nurture the young and eager talent and one competition that does just that is Basch It Up. The competition is for post-secondary fashion majors/grads the students were required to submit 2-4 women’s wear designs.

 Peep the rundown on street style, party people, cool dudes, parties, and just about everything during LG/Toronto Fashion Week.

That’s it party peeeople… it’s officially the last day of LG Fashion Week/Toronto Fashion Week. I have crammed my feet into five inch heels for five days straight, performed ten wardrobe changes, survived purse swathing and hangovers. All in the name of fashion!!! The last day of LGFW was jammed packed so I decided to man up and  hit the tents for the whole day.

Adrian Wu

Perfect way to start the last day of LGFW was with a splendid presentation from Adrian Wu, we packed the bright airy studio the natural light from the sun streamed in and highlighted the orchestra. Then the models began to float onto the runway littered with red, green and blue polka dots as the balanced on what seemed to me stilts rather than shoes, while being engulfed by an orbital head piece (can you believe Adrian made everything). As the designs paraded the studio with organic tones, rope & hand painted details with mounds of voile resembling bubbles and flower petals.  I felt as tho I was transported to a tea party and I left my couture gown at home . It wasn’t until I popped backstage Adrian told me his thought process for this season was conceptualized with the help of quantum physics… you heard correct, physics. Where I interpreted the petals and blooms they were really “creatures of the photons” – electrons, photons, neurons. Who knew physics could inspire such great designs!!

Anu Raina

Its seems the trend of vibrant colour and print is running rabid like a wild beast during LGFW and Anu Raina grabbed it by the horns and made it hers. When I popped backstage to ask her where her wonderful mind came up with all theses lovely designs and rich colours,  she told me it the collection was heavily influenced by a trip to the island Murano with her family. While in Murano, Anu was able to observe the glass artisans at work as they created unique designs her favourite being chandeliers and the ancient sand cast method which was translated into the colour and print for her S/S ’12 collection. Anu Raina hit all the right notes for Spring/Summer colour, print and wear-ability.

Micalla

Once again Micalla shows us why they reign superior when it comes to all things bling. The presentation started with a splendid short film, starring the infamous “Remus” with a litter of beautiful cats indulging in the finer things in life.  Their S/S ’12 collection entitled “I ? Remus” was a mixture of  classic vintage, with modern lines, bold statement and colour all the things a fierce independent women embodies. Camilla Jorgensen designer for Micalla said, “This season’s collection parallels the decadent lives of cast to women who enjoy all of life’s pleasures.” If this is the life of a feline that count me in and don’t forget the gold Swarovski shrug.

Baby Steinberg

Reuse, reduce, recycle redesign is the name of Baby’s games, with a collection entitled “Remnant” if your wondering about the title it’s because all materials/fabric used to make each garment are 100% recycled. Let’s be honest I was a little apprehensive about the collection, but boy was I in for a surprise. The show opened with a man singing & playing the accordion (I know caught me off guard as well) the show began with a mix n match of pieces, from dresses embellished in feathers, to sexy chunky knits, and even crochet. What I loved the most was Steinberg’s decision to ditch the finale walk and have her models pose in her designs on platforms so we could have a closer look, ingenious!!

Cydelic by Choryin

For Spring/Summer 2012  Choryin Coi went out of this world with a collection named “Aliens“, yes I said Aliens!! The studio presentation opened with a short film starring model Renée Thompson, before models hit the catwalk rocking  futuristic garments. They featured transparent cutouts, what seemed to be horn embellishments, but my personal fave was the bad ass print which wasn’t quite animal (I just can’t put my hands on it). Really tho who could pay attention to the clothes… when you had those killer handbags made of horn handles, massive exotic feathers, animal hide, shells, and I think even insects!! Let’s just say it was oddly alright in a ET kinda way!!

Lauren Bagliore

I’m all about simplicity, easy,versatility and that is what Lauren does best with her designs. Bagliore’s collection entitled “Le Strade della Descostruzione” embodied deconstruction, from the asymmetrical cuts which created fluidity, to the architectural detail visible in knots of the jersey to heavy layer. As simple as the designs were you certainly could pick up a sense of Asian aesthetics and refinement.

David Dixon

What more can one say about the man himself… I happen to be a huge fan I own his shoes, gowns, Barbie line (I love him), and with his S/S ’12 David shows why we love him so much. His opening jersey gown in canary yellow was simply breath-taking on Naro and with every step she took it seem to flow like water in a stream. Soft details such as delightful silk laser cut flowers which adorned cotton skirts, and chantilly lace layers were just the perfect touch. I truly appreciated the range of pieces from bustiers to skirts, and jackets in between; Dixon had all his bases covered.

Denis Gagnon

Denis, Denis, Denis… can this man out do himself? Well, he sure did with his Spring/Summer presentation which began with a short film entitled “Nuit Nouvelle” starring fresh-faced girls romping in foggy woods as the genius himself sipped bubbly and watched his creations from far.

To the clothes… What better way to close the Fashion Week Festivities than with red-lipped models skipping and frolicking down the runway. Denis introduced a whimsical collection that was a little bit city and little bit country. The bright garden-print flooded the runway from suits, to capris, to clutches and even backpacks. Black and white, coupled with softness and edge are apparent skorts, blouses and tent dresses… and the slight infusion of men’s tailoring with the tuxedo style jacket, FIRE!

In true celebration, Gagnon concluded the presentation with two female models — one wearing a tuxedo-style shortall, the other in a white-sleeved ensemble with bouquet and all. They hit the catwalk arm-in-arm and stopped to partake in a quick smooch.

As fast as it came is as fast as it went!! I once again had a wonderful time meeting many wonderful people, enjoying great conversation, having joyous laughs and sipping many glasses of wine. From the bottom of my pink heart I would like to thank everyone that made my LFGW memorable and unforgettable! Now its time to sleep & rest my feet!

XOXO…Pinkie

We are halfway there folks… its day three of the LGFW madness and that means I’m starting to get irritated with the pushing, stepping on toes and purse swathing… but nonetheless I brave the fierce fashion crowd for my peeps!!

Today is all about the Mirmran monopoly with the two most anticipated shows each season Pink Tartan & Joe Fresh!! Here are some looks from the collections, be sure to lookout for the full review!!!

Pink Tartan

Joe Fresh

XOXO…Pinkie

Yup, its Day of LGFW already… I survived the opening night madness aka Holt’s opening night. There wasn’t much on the day 2 rooster that really tickled my fancy, well minus Chloé comme Parris, LOVAS  by Wesley Badanjak and of course Attitude by Jay Manuel

Chloé Comme Parris

The dynamic sister duo is back in full effect, with a little-less dark but just as stellar collection. For the S/S ’12 collection the models strutted down a runway splattered with paint, but the real star of the show is the lovely artist momma who made the wonderful subtle printed fabrics which were the cornerstone of this collection. The prints stormed the runway in a range of styles: from long flowing dresses with quirky wrist cut-out detail, to two-piece short suits embellished with gold buttons and hardware to loose fitting pant suits. One thing I can say about Chloé Comme Parris is I truly love their design aesthetics and this collection was everything I hoped for. BTW can I say thank you for busting out the backpacks again!!

Bird of Paradise

LOVAS Wesley Badanjak entitled his collection “Bird of Paradise” as he drew inspiration from his travels throughout the Caribbean. I’m not a history or geography major by any means, but I personally didn’t see much Caribbean references… maybe little Meso/Indo-American (but like I said I’m no history major).

Don’t get me wrong I was feeling the collection, I especially appreciated the black and white colour detail… and the dresses, loved the Eleanor and the lovely pants.

The show stopper was definitely the lovely ornamental Indo-America headpieces adorned with exotic feathers and the massive statement jewelry (S/O to Rita Tesolin for the bling).

Maybe Wesley did miss the historical/geographical mark… but his collection definitely hit the design mark.

Attitude by Jay Manuel

Let’s face it us fashion purist are always skeptical when it comes to the mass consumer fashion market… and every season during Fashion Week we all say we won’t be at those shows, but some how we always are. So what I am about to say may find many off guard, I really really enjoyed the collection… Bright colours, lovely bold prints, easy layering pieces, and the killer jersey pieces (especially the black maxi and jumpsuit, FIRE)!! At the end of the day this collection is accesible, functional and easy… it was all the things the everyday women needs to make her self a style maven, and for that I can’t be mad!!

FYI the next time you choose to use fog machines on the runway remember the models… S/O to Yasmin Warsame for her ever so gracious fall (we LOVE ya)!!

The adventure continues tomorrow…

XOXO… Pinkie

Can you imagine its that time again for all the bloggers, style mavens, fashion rebels and staples to come together again for the one and only Toronto Fashion Week!! Its true and this year they are celebrating the 25^th anniversary season of LG Fashion Week beauty by L’Oreal Paris and what better way to celebrate an anniversary than a venue change to David Pecaut Square (with the venue change comes the tents all us die-hard fashion lovers crave)!!

Holt Renfrew’s Opening Night is Canada Cool

Its become a ritual to kick-off the week with our fave luxury retailers Holt Renfrew and their ode to the wonderful designers that call the Great White North home. As always we can thank Holts for bringing a crowd out and this night was no different… it was soooo packed which of course made the show started hella late, but made me right on time for our Canada Cool talent featuring Jeremy Laing, Smythe, Naked & Famous, Denis Gagnon, Twentcluny, Lida Baday, Dennis Merotto and Wings + Horns.

What can I say all of my homegrown faves showcasing their amazing talent… and showing us how to stay Canada Cool for Spring/Summer with colour, movement, print!! As always Holt Renfrew shows us why “There is no place like Holts”!

JUMA

After being Canada Cool we all head over to the insanely bright-white Studio space to take in JUMA… I must say I loved the way the room was styled with the mannequins framing the runway (the perfect touch). All I can say is S/S ’12 is about print, colour, print, colour… and I’m quite fine with that.

Collection was filled with movement from the cut of the digitally printed silk and jersey perfect for draping, layering, which makes it absolutely ease for anyone to wear.

Guess what I spotted on models fantastic eyewear from my favourite place Gafas Optical Shop, BTW did anyone else catch the awesome handbags?!?

FYI JUMA you better thank mamma for all her help!!

The Return of King Arthur Mendonça

We all love Arthur Mendonça  so we heard he was making made a triumphant return to LG Fashion Week with his show inspired by Cleopatra… we all were jumping in our 6 inch stilettos. I was excited to see such wonderful colour in the blues and yellows, beautiful floral blooms in purple and red.

Not to mention the ultra sexy and ever so lovely sheer gowns that swung with every strut, and I love how he just threw a little animal-esque print in there for us (thank you).

All I can say is Welcome back, Arthur and its about time

Oooo Lala Berlin

Germany based Lala Berlin wrapped opening night with her very first presentation at LGFW, which featured a colour palette of ultra crisp whites to darker muted prints with a splash of colour.

I must say I enjoyed the collection, I appreciated her airiness coupled with the futuristic details and angles… the right balance of softness and edgy.

Before I forget did anyone see those killer boots with the clear PVC insert (I’ll take a pair in both white and yellow)!!

The look that stuck in my mind is the floor length shirt dress (a little sterile at first glance)but with the right accessories and shoes… it becomes the perfect Spring and Summer piece.

Congrats are in order for Lala Berlin great presentation as a newcomer to LGFW, look forward to seeming more!!

PS my apologies for the phone pics, my memory card in the camera fried that night, but thanks to my home slices at FrontRow Mag for hooking me up!!

XOXO… Pinkie

I’m always on the quest to the find the best goodies before anyone else (face it we all are these days). So when a lovely invitation from Leesa Bulter  popped into my inbox about Lena Erziak handbags finally touching down in the Great White North I was all over it.

For those  those who haven’t heard of Lena Erziak, let me give you the 411… its the brainchild of sisters  a Leona and Hasna Erziak. With a line of  handbags and accessories made with the best craftsmanship and  materials from python, calfskin, fox, and even gold.

For all you style mavens and accessory aficionados out there dying to know where to score these Lena Erziak goodies, I’ll let you in on another exclusive Rue Pigalle.

Rue Pigalle is a splendid boutique in Yorkville and baby of Isabelle Fish, who has the passion and keenness for handpicking the most marvelous objects from jewellery to accessories… so naturally where else would Lena Erizak call home. I asked Isabelle “What’s one thing you look for in each line you carry? That there not available in Canada.” If that’s not exclusive I don’t know what is!!

P.S. thank you so much Rue Pigalle and Lena Erziak for my lovely gift!! My new business cards will be extra hot in their python case!!

XOXO… Pinkie

After a weekend of over indulgence, what better way to kick start a week than trying to squeeze my fatness into a pair of Balmain trousers for the Greta Constantine S/S 2012 Show. That’s right its that time again! The Century Room was busting at the seams with all the fashion rebels, style mavens, socialites who were lucky enough to be invited.

We all I know I can’t get anywhere on time to save my life, and we all know that Greta Constantine show will never start on time. So as after running down King in my David Dixon pumps I was able to make it early with even time to spare for a glass a wine and catching up with my homies. After all the chatting, sweating and bumping elbows we were finally ushered upstairs for the show.

The front row was filled with the likes of Ainsley Kerr, Leesa Butler of The F-list, Robin Kay of FDCC, and even blogger Casie Stewart was perched front row (as always I was seated behind Leesa and her hair). The lights dimmed a purplish-pinkie light hit the runway and the music was cranked and POW the show began.

The first looks hit the runway and I all I kept saying to myself was the design duo Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong are back to doing what we love most, a “return to their roots” so to speak. Lovely flowing Grecian-esque dresses draped in jersey with colours that made your heart flutter.

The spunk and edge of the last few seasons were visible in the asymmetrical and bias cuts, gauzy layers, exposed zippers and of course the leather (the leather wrap monster skirt has my name written all over it)!!

What really caught my eye was the bad-ass tied dyed pieces in the perfect gauzy fabric, ingenious the best detail if you ask me. Their take on knitwear warmed my heart with floor gazing dresses so form fitting the models could barely walk and those leather gloves to the elbow can we say fire…and the white trousers with the exposed zipper slung low on the waist quite fitting for the urbanites!!

Lest we forget the men who where treated with the same finesse and detail of the women’s collection but with addition of those kick ass draped hoodies.I want to thank Kirk and Stephen for another amazing collection which will ensure I look divine while being homeless!!
And S/O to my home slice Youlanda Jackson and her assistant Chanel Sade for some truly amazing styling!!!

PS thanks for the pics Richard Fabregui!
XOXO… Pinkie

We live in a day and age where we are all constantly bombarded by the media and our peers  when it comes to our self-image and self-esteem. Let’s be real… I don’t know anyone these days that has zero “self-doubt issues”.  So when an invitation from VOCAB Communications came along for a screening of Measuring Tape Girl during Culture Days hosted by our homie Casie Stewart, I just had to check it out!!

Measuring Tape Girl is a real examination of self-image and indecisiveness, it documents a young woman approaching her thirties who turns to social media in particular  posting on-line videos as a means of expressing her doubts and fears, thus creating her alter ego named ‘Measuring Tape Girl’.  Measuring Tape Girl decides its best for her to measure and criticize herself against others,  before anyone gets a chance to reject her, she does it herself.

After the screening the audience was treated to a little Q&A hosted by Casie Stewart, we chatted about the effects of social media on our body image, camera types, and social media do’s & don’ts… Casie even spoke about being one of the most influential female bloggers in the country. The ambitious director/writer Pasquale Marco Veltri and the star of the show Jessica Embro jumped in to chat ’bout how surprisingly easy it was to write this story despite being a man, movie locations, and even dropping hints on the next MTG project (hint: Girlsssss).

A couple special ladies popped up to introduce Windfall, a charity that  acquires new clothing and other personal need items and distributes them to a variety of social service agencies. Suitable Impressions  a facet of Windfall provides meaningful job-training placements and gives a full-day workshop for clients that takes job readiness to the final level by offering clothing, personal care items and first impression training for job seekers. Can we say amazing!!! It was a real treat to have everyone ’round on a rainy Sunday afternoon for something that made you feel so good!!

Please remember to support the cause… its the best thing we can do!!

XOXO,

Pinkie

As fast as the A to Z- listers rained on our humble city is as fast as they and their all black suburbans dried up… When TIFF rolls into town each year everyone instantaneously becomes starstruck, rarely does anyone see a movie (myself included)… I mean who knew U2′s From the Sky would be the first documentary to ever open the festival.

As per usual parties galore kicked off the 10 days of star gazing, I managed to pop into the Alliance x Ben Sherman cocktail soiree at the Intercontinental Hotel for some pre-festival strategy talk and the most delicious cheese platter this side of Wisconsin.

I bumped into our homies from Dose.ca who were headed over to the #SecretTease event presented by NKPR & SKYYVodka, so naturally I joined. After complaining about standing in 5″ heels on the corner of King West for 15 minutes, out of nowhere came a troop of dancers that somewhat resembled the Raptor Dance Pack, as I was about to bail I spotted the crane from the corner of my eye and decided to hold my spot. Boy am I glad I did out of nowhere came an awesome hanging martini glass equipped with fireworks and filled with an acrobatic artist who swung on ribbons and bent through rings, can we say SKYY Stunt. After the mid-air stunts we were grounded we were ushered down the alley to the plush blue carpet to an outside tent soiree with delicious sushi and drinks courtesy of  SKYY Vodka.

The best part of TIFF we have to admit is the Gift Lounge for all the celebs and who who’s… I’m not sure why celebs need the gifts (God knows they can afford it) but I guess even celebs partake in the art of re-gifting. So with that said as much as I said “I wouldn’t be TIFFing” not even I can withstand the power of the Gift Lounge.

First stop on the circuit was the RealTVFilms Social Media Lodge presented by VOCAB Communications at F-stop, can we say great spot, live music and even better vibe. DJ in the middle Brennen Demelo hairstylist to the right and Inspire Cosmetics on the left , bar filled with Ketel One Vodka tables lined with cupcakes from Bite Me Bakery and chocolate delights courtesy of Chocola Chocola. Not to mention other amazing vendors like Treccani who turned leather into butter to make the most delightful shoes, the whimsical hat designers Banoo by MeSa, and Canada’s Mèreadesso skincare, along with Winx Eyelash Boutique… what more could a girl ask for.

Next stop was to the celeb HQ Hazelton Lanes for the B.A.D. PR Premier Gifting Lounge, hands down one of my fave locations for TIFF. The lounge was packed with vendors of every kind and they had a quirky media sponsor Minggy (they had candy nerds & life size jenga) but the main event was for the jewelry lovers… pearls galore with the most unique charm by Serenda, unique organic pieces from FRASH, and the exquisite Micalla known their luxurious Scandinavian design. Clothing vendors included the bad-ass lingerie and lounge wear by Dear Frankie ( the infinity scarf is to die for), awesome customs t-shirt design by Zero Edge and Ehliens and once again the Banoo by MeSa ladies were on hand and even let me rock some their custom designs. Hands down the best part for me was the lovely organic pillows by Soma (can you say heaven) and the memorable on site sketching provided by Wendy Ding. Most ingenious idea was to have an on-site Style Lounge fully stacked with  Greg May Hair Architects and Sean from Smashbox Cosmetics and our Pinkie as wardrobe stylist with designs from Jessica Biffi, Carlie Wong, and Fashion Crimes... can you say one stop shop. Biggest S/O to my number one client that weekend the ever sooo sweet Ainsley Kerr whom I was lucky enough to suit up for several TIFF occasions !!

I was floored when I received an invitation to the Swarovski Fashion Suite in the Four Seasons Hotel, I rushed over on the last day to take in the sparkle and shine that is Swarovski. As soon as I entered the room I didn’t want to move or talk too loudly in fear the crystal empire would come crashing down. My eyes darted back and forth with every angle reflection and refraction of  light, this is bling to the tenth degree. The pieces were simply breathtaking with superb craftsmanship and detail not to mention the amazing design concept and story behind each one. I mean who knew Swarovski was on the forefront of fashion; Nadja, the creative director and namesake to crystal empire is to take credit for this nouveau direction (if you ask me).  This ain’t your momma’s crystal figurines anymore. I can’t tell you what a pleasure it was to invited to share this experience and Michelle and Diana where such gracious host, who left me speechless by bestowing upon me the most divine gift ever (I had to fight the tears).

My gift lounge circuit wrapped up with the OG Leesa Bulter of The F-list and it Rock-it-Promotions Tastemakers Lounge, which has been a staple in gifting circuit and whom I was surprised made the move DT to the Intercontinental Hotel. Since I’m like family I got Leesa to take me ’round and show my the one-of-kind products selected for the lounge. We all know I’m a sucker for anything skincare so Okrapeptide was the perfect vendor for me all the benefits of botox without the needles and available at the pharmacy, can we say score. I was surprised to learn of a hidden gem out of Québec named Evatik they make the most spectacular eye-wear in baddest colours out there. Of course who can forget everyone’s fave Pandora, charming visitors on site with customized bracelets. Excitement kicked in when I saw the Mattel game board corner fully stacked with the new Angry Birds game and Uno Roboto (can you say big kid)!! John Frieda hair products and stylist where gracious enough to touch- up the do while I stuffed my face with President’s Choice: Black Label snacks (you heard it hear first)!! It was a shame I couldn’t find a pair of Mavi’s go over my rear end, but on the plus side my head will be warm and cozy thanks to Crown Cap. I would like to thank Cilque for providing the best TIFF recoup bedding,EVER!!

I was invited to attend the ReelWorld Film Festival 10th annual Indie Film Lounge reception at Empire in celebration of the Emerging 20 (E20) a select group of new film talent who are chosen based on their projects, potential and previous experience within the film industry. Founded by actress Tonya Lee Williams the cocktail reception is an excellent way for, the E20 participants network and mingle with industry insiders before their ReelPrep, Face2Face sessions, Case Studies and industry panels. Another amazing project doing great things for Arts on our home-front!!!

Some how I ended up at the SoHo Metropolitain for the Nicolas Cage flick Trespass after-party with my Dose partner in crime Miranda Furtado. Let’s just say they turned the lights on us!!

P.S. I would like to S/O all the wonderful people and events I got to experience this TIFF… and an extra special thank you to everyone for their wonderful gifts and treats!!! Dear I forget SKYY Vodka for being my official drink sponsor with the “Temptress’.

XOXO from the bottom of my Pink Heart,

Pinkie

As we all know I consider myself  quite the arts aficionado, especially in our humble home The Great White North. Whether your an arts buff or merely someone who doesn’t inhabit the underside of a rock we all know The National Ballet of Canada. So of course when I got an invite to review the opening night of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts I graciously accepted.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is truly one of my favourite childhood tales, and I’m quite sure its responsible my off the rocker imagination. Anytime I hear a mention of an adaptation to my cherished story I’m automatically skeptical (just being honest), but I figured a co-production between The National Ballet of Canada and The Royal Ballet with a choreographer like Christopher Wheeldon you can’t go wrong.

I was pleasantly surprised when the curtains rose to a garden-party prologue complete with historical charm straight from the pages of Carroll’s book. It took a moment to sink in, but right then I knew I was on a journey back to my childhood, a time we all remember oooh too well. As my eyes grew wider I began to notice Wheeldon and Nicholas Wright (who wrote the scenario) decided hell with the with the traditional storyline, and opted for a brilliantly updated love-story with all the bells and whistles the Wonderland has to offer.

Zdenek Konvalina and Jillian Vanstone in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Photo by Cylla von Tiedemann.

Zdenek Konvalina is perfect for the handsome young gardener Jack, and  first soloist Jillian Vanstone’s childlike disposition is fitting for Alice. As their young love blossoms Alice falls head over heels and tumbles down the rabbit hole, and can I say this fall started the ballet… Cleverly designed projection by Jon Driscoll and Gemma Carrington illuminates the stage with a black and white hypnotic swirl,  in the which makes rabbit hole s the projected special ef. Royal Ballet guest artist Steven McRae brought the Mad Hatter to life with his quirky tapping number, which was perfectly fitting for Carroll’s the outlandish character . Aleksandar Antonijevic as the White Rabbit (who would’ve thought), was the perfect off the wall companion to Alice as she discovered all her adventures in Wonderland.

Aleksandar Antonijevic in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Photo by Cylla von Tiedemann.

The real star of the show for me was veteran principal dancer Greta Hodgkinson as the Queen of Hearts the fire and intensity behind her performance was breathtaking I mean at some moments  (there was a lot of them) she just stole the whole damn show especially with her costumes. The pièce de résistance for me was the return of Rex Harrington as the King of Hearts, and boy did he have my heart pumping (don’t judge me).

Of course being fashion obsessed the real highlight for me was the set, costume and properties design by Bob Crowley first of I need to know how it’s humanly possible for one man to do all this design; much less execute it so well. I mean the Queen’s costume on its own was a show-stopper, her red heart-shaped capsule fully equipped with a set of stairs for her King to perch on (you have to see it). What I appreciated the most from Crowley is he made sure every image you associated with the story as a child was there in real life… I mean he even had the house of cards and they collapsed (genuis I know). Don’t get me wrong I heard a few groans about the design, being too elaborate and stealing the whole show, cry me a river it was spectacular.

Jillian Vanstone and Artists of the Ballet in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Photo by Cylla von Tiedemann.

The ballet’s orchestra did true justice to Joby Talbot’s music which provided the neccessary atmosphere and setting for this magicial tale, and his commissioned score was excellent with tinges of classical works that we all have grown to love.

Without a doubt this is one of my new favourites, its captivating, witty, imaginetive, quirky, and just plain delightful. It had a little bit of everything you could want in a ballet… well at least I want. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is the perfect display of a new direction in ballet, gone are the day of the rigid pretentiousness many have come to dislike… instead ballet is back to being what it is an art- the true embodiment of the human spirit.

XOXO

Pinkie