We had great seats at the Pippa Toledo show at the President’s palace on Friday evening. The show, in aid of the Community Chest Fund had the honourables, a couple of the fash pack, supporters of the charity and us dreamers with hammers ready to smash open the piggy banks in the audience.
There wasn’t much around the edges we cooed over – some people really need to watch out for a piece (just commissioned Mr Right) on dress codes as it was obvious the word ‘lounge’ on the invite had a few people confused. It was sold out though, frankly, whether it was for charity or not, I would have been there. Big fan of her work, small collection planning to be added to!
The catwalk was T shaped, which gave good viewing for the whole crowd, and the entrance to the runway was from the house and down its elegant stairs. Cameras were everywhere but I still had to whip out my iPhone, though my reaction times proved too slow to capture the outfits at their best. I preferred to watch the show. The pro’s shots are worth a gander.
The show started with peacock coloured dyed silks with Pippa’s signature crochet and beaded accessories still standing out; some neutral patterned fabrics came in and then wow! Pinks and oranges, a pop of turquoise that made me plan a tan session the next day so I could pull off the twisted tangerine number followed by a refreshing and perfectly fitting white tunic and trousers with the most beautiful necklace and bangle. Hoping I don’t have to book a lipo session too – a couple of the models were super skinny.
The shapes and lines of the outfits were so varied, Pippa’s design heritage proving that the diversification of her interiors empire to include accessories to a clothing line is a very positive move. Long and lean, something to hide or curvy, the choices of fabric and cuts would be flattering.
Pewter and champagne shades dominated the final run with splashes of chartreuse and quince, perfect for this time of year.
A reception was held afterwards and a walk around some recently renovated rooms was available. I wished there were rails with the items for sale there and then, but with a new sidekick joining the team, I’ll have more time to get to the shop, more often.
