Words by Rachel Hambly, Writer

Last Friday night, St. Andrews’ students filled Town Hall, eagerly awaiting a night of fashion and elegance, and VS gave them just that. The attendees were on what was likely their one allocated night out before a week of deadlines, so the stakes were high for the VS Creatives not to disappoint. Once the lights dropped and the curtains were pulled back, everyone’s minds were taken off the stresses of school and were instead immersed in the work of their peers.

This year, the VS25 theme is ‘Sprezzatura,’ an Italian word for an effortless sort of grace and casual beauty, and the team could not have chosen looks that fit this theme more perfectly. Split into four sections, the show consisted of a stylish take on office wear, flowy gowns and sharp suits, striking lingerie, and a collection of monotone pieces that left me with the reminder that even in these dark winter days, there can still be light. Although it seemed nearly impossible to me during the show that I would have to pick only a couple of star looks, upon reflection, these were the ones that stood out to me.

Each blazer was sharp, and each heel clicked as the models walked down the runway, kicking off the night. At first, the theme was professional dress. But, as each look came down the aisle, it became clear to the viewer that there was more than meets the eye. Business jackets were paired with sultry lace bras peeking through, and trousers and dress shoes were met with tousled hair, making the audience consider a double meaning to the seemingly straightforward impression. I speak for everyone when I say the look that stole the show was the black, double-breasted blazer, scallop-edged bra, sheer black tights, and at least 4-inch patent leather pumps. This ultimate ‘business on the top, party on the bottom’ look captivated the audience’s attention, but it wasn’t just the outfit. The model, Ruby Sloan, had a confidence about her, an air that you can’t practice, but are just naturally born with. Her effortless beauty and grace could not have represented VS and the VS25 theme more precisely, and she gave the runway an entirely new life.

To keep the energy flowing, the models changed into something that showed off their feminine side, compared to the previous pantsuits. Pairs of girls stepped down the stairs together, wearing long dresses that complimented each other magnificently. The mixture of ruffles, lace, cutouts, and more meant there was something for everyone to drool over. I immediately wanted to know where this silvery, metallic dress with matching neck scarf was from, and I will be doing some digging on Google after this in an attempt to hunt it down. The team did a beautiful job picking dresses that matched each personality on the runway, allowing the audience to see each model’s true style through their gowns.

The finale showcased a combination of looks with different textures and styles, all in one color, creating a light, airy monochromatic closing. As someone who wears white all year round, no matter what fashion rules dictate, I was delighted to see inspiration fill the runway. I took notes from the menswear and women’s outfits, with the ruffle blouse and tiered mini skirt (which I cannot wait to wear next summer, even though frost is only starting to form on the grass). The footwear of the male models, such as brown leather loafers and ‘Ball-Star’ Golden Goose sneakers, showed how a monochromatic look can be both casual and preppy.

However, what made the VS25 show stand out was the choreography's attention to detail and intricacy throughout the night. Each section of the show had multiple rounds of intense choreography, allowing the audience to see each piece from various angles, under changing lighting, and in comparison, with different looks each time the models came to the end of the runway. VS is extremely lucky to call India Kolb their Head of Choreography, who worked closely alongside Ines Tramarin, the VS25 Creative Director, to make their visions for this show come alive. It was evident the hours of dedication both these women and the models put in paid off. After the show, while waiting for the coat check, the majority of comments I overheard from fellow guests were about the choreography, how they felt they got so much more out of the show than any other production they’ve attended here in St. Andrew’s, how they could sense the dedication of the team, and how they enjoyed the length of the show as they were able to become fully immersed in the minds of the directors.

The environment in which this show was created was clear; there is genuine camaraderie and community within the VS25 team. No matter the mood during the show, the models would hold hands and support each other while on heels and stairs and catch glances at each other, smiling and nodding for encouragement. Love was felt throughout the audience as well. Cheers erupted often from the seats, with friends screaming to show their love and whoops and hollers as each model made their way down the runway. It was an endearing environment to be a part of for the night, and it didn’t stop there. The afterparty at The Rule was a night full of congratulations and dancing, with each model smiling and embracing each other all night. The compliments flowed for hours about the show, the looks, and everyone’s outfit for afters. It all seemed thanks to VS25’s Creative Director, Ines Tramarin. It was easy to see she cared deeply about the show and was passionate about her role, which shone through in the models' love for their work. However, this was also evident in the way others interacted with her, through the models’ admiring look in their eyes when she spoke and the eruption of applause when she took the stage at the end of the show.

*From left to right, Niamh McManus (Partnerships Director), Ines Tramarin (Creative Director), and Gabriela Trauttmansdorff (Operations Director). Photography by Lauren Buckbee*

Everything about the VS25 Creatives show made it a night to remember. With its multiple shows within one, intricate choreography, and deep-rooted love, other fashion groups have a tough act to follow. Reminiscing on this show will carry me through the upcoming week of deadlines and windy nights and will act as a reminder that grace can always be found in the clothing you wear but also through the people you surround yourself with.

A Night of Grace: A Review of VS25