The first was Situationist, a brand that is now getting international acclaim. This season it has to be their show venue that stood out, although their collection also had many highlights, as the brand continues to develop strong signature looks. This season the brand decided to take the fashion crowd out of their comfort zone and show the collection at the Chronicle of Georgia, a majestic, monolithic memorial site high up above Tbilisi – think Stonehenge x 10. On a beautiful day it would have been dramatic, but the drama was increased by storm force winds and rain that nearly ripped the clothes from the models during some gusts. Anywhere else in the world the show may have been canceled, but the show must go on in Georgia and fashion crowd stayed the course to support the brand.
The other unusual venue this season was from the brand Anouki who took us to view their show on a real runway at the Tbilisi International Airport. With passports in hand, the fashion crowd went through security and on to a shuttle bus to an airport hanger with a Georgian Airline plane in it, on the edge of the working runway. With planes taking off alongside us during the catwalk show, the Anouki collection impressed with 80s inspired, glamorous looks that would be a great edition to any international starlets wardrobe.
My time in Tbilisi is never long enough and I am always sad to leave. As always I can’t wait to return in the future to visit not only the capital but also venture off the beaten path to discover more of this magical land. High on the agenda next time is Kakheti, which is the region where wines have been made for at least 8000 years. Of course I am going to view the history of this region, but will also have to sample some of the fine produce, as Georgian red wine has become another element that I love about this country.
Tbilisi we love you and can’t wait to come back!
Alison Lowe MBE
Situationist
Anouki
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