Red carpet dresses donate a dose of modernism to Hadrian’s temple. Gowns fit for an Empress, the diva sets the mood of 2013’s AltaRoma exhibit at Hadrian’s Temple in Rome. 21st century Red Carpet class and nothing less. That’s the name of the game for Silvia Venturini Fendi, who is the brainchild behind this fab fashion installation comprising of 36 of Italy’s top designers and couture houses.
There is a mysterious element of suspense upon entering the temple, the virtual red carpet. A respectful silence as onlookers glare at the beaded masterpieces. Suspense is interrupted every 4 minutes with automated camera bulb flashlights, complete with sound effects, to make you feel as though you are on the catwalk itself, as you weave yourself in and out of the various mannequins who adorn centre stage with you. To complete this experience, or for a second feeling like a star amidst such stylistic individuality, is the sound effect of a non existent audience chit chattering away, content in their admiration.
In no particular order of preference, designers include: Renato Balestra, Ermanno Scervino, Ellie Saab, Fausto Puglisi, to name but a few. Plus, the usual contenders Versace, Gucci et al. Balestra’s black dress with a rose detail embossed with Swarovski crystal was nothing less than breath taking.
Silvia Venturini Fendi, President of AltaRoma says “Is there any woman who has never dreamed of strutting her stuff on the ‘Red Carpet’, wearing the most incredible dress that one could imagine? The ‘Red Carpet’ concept will act as a guideline for the creative expressions that we’ll see within the context of a start studded setting”.
There are many events organised this year in honour of AltaRoma. BESPOKE TOUR is another. Hosted at various boutiques and art galleries dotted around the Eternal City, BESPOKE TOUR is a discovery of the high class and the custom-made. Celebrating craftsmanship that represents Made In Italy and maintaining Italian traditions.
Italy has mastered fashion for as long as fashion can recall, right back to those Empire lines, and it does not want to be conquered by modern technological innovations.
This is an event high on the list of 2013’s fashion calendar. Get your umbrellas out and your stilettos on, it’s time to feel like a star. Blink and you’ll miss it, because it’s only on until Tuesday 29th January.
See website for details on various fashion events in Rome www.altaroma.it
