Review: Fashion Royale makes a huge Splash

The bi-annual Splash fashion shows are one of the hottest events on the Dubai social calendar and the autumn-winter 2012 show was no different.

With the dress code calling for majestic at the aptly titled Splash Fashion Royale, the fashionistas that gathered at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai on Friday night did not disappoint. tabloid! spotted guests in outfits inspired by some of the royal fashion icons over the years: there were Kate Middleton-esque long, flowy chiffon gowns, Princess Diana inspired fitted suits, Louis XIV wigs, the red jackets courtesy the British Queen’s Guard, those channelling Grace Kelly in lace dresses and the very imperial tail coats.

Guests were ushered into the venue, which Splash CEO Raza Beig and his team had transformed into a winter courtyard fit for royalty. And the fashion show then began in style.

The collection drew inspiration from the Imperial Dynasties of China, France and the UK. Brocades, velvets and lace featured and were coupled with some of the season’s hottest trends. Reminiscent of Burberry’s latest collection, capes took centre stage rather than jackets. Big ruffled necklines were paired with floral dresses. There were beautifully tailored blazers in velvet, olive green and black velvet for the men. The show stealer was a bespoke coat in navy blue velvet with gold thread work on the cuffs and neckline and for the women a floor length black evening dress with a tight fitting lace bodice in lace that opened up to a pleated A-Line skirt. Beig took to the catwalk at the end in a rich burgundy blazer, with a Nehru collar and gold brooch, to huge applause from the crowd.

With such a magnificently regal evening, we will have to see how Splash Fashions will top this one.

*Yusra Farzan is an intern at Gulf News