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Sashaying in Metro

DUBAI — In Paris last Spring, Louis Vuitton pulled a rabbit from the magician’s hat, and in a complete trumping of runway theatrics, literally brought a train station to the catwalk.

He replicated the look and feel of old steam engines, a false floor, faux rail tracks, old station clocks — the Louis Vuitton Express was a stunning visual, and models who walked the ‘platform’ were dressed as stylish passengers. To top the show, steam even emerged from the engines. Dubai, on Wednesday, instead of taking a train to a ramp, took the ramp to the train. You’ve got to hand it to them for the novelty aspect, as ‘Express Fashion’ became the first such fashion event in these parts.

A model graces the catwalk in the Metro as part of Dubai Fashion 2013. —KT photo by Rahul Gajjar

Luckyily for the models, the ride was non-stop as the chances of tripping and falling are halved if no breaks are applied. As a wise strategy, they held on to handles and were able to execute their task of sashaying with as much grace as the circumstance and venue permitted.

Organised by the Dubai Events and Promotions Establishment (DEPE) and Bloomingdales, as part of Dubai Fashion 2013, one of the mega events of the on-going DSF, the models showcased 40 looks. Dresses, vests, clutches, shoes, jackets, you name it and they had it all. Accessories, skirts, tops – et al, from Alexander McQueen clutches (clutch bags) to jumpsuits by Cucinelli, even the bracelets had a designer.

‘Express Fashion’ didn’t carry regular commuters, but only a list of invitees, delegates, fashionistas and media persons. The train left from Burj Khalifa —The Dubai Mall station, took a round trip to the metro’s Nakheel Harbour and Tower Station and back again.

The catwalk on wheels exhibited both day and evening-wear. The first half of the journey up to Nakheel Harbour and Tower station saw displays of daytime fashion, while the return leg to The Dubai Mall was dedicated to evening fashion. — nivriti@khaleejtimes.com

Click for video: Fashion show on Metro