Tad Dramatic: Oxford Fashion Week

And here's the one you've all been waiting for ...

When I was taking notes at Oxford Fashion Week's Couture Show all that would come out of my pen was 'stunning ... stunning ... stunning.' Even now I think it is the most fitting word to describe the evening, but I will try to elaborate.

When I arrived at the Oxford Exam Schools, the venue alone was breath-taking, more like a castle than part of a university. Once I had hung my coat I was greeted by OFW's seemingly never ending supply of champagne and canapes. Press, designers, organisers and guest socialised for well over two hours, despite the reception being only intended to last an hour. One of the organisers joked in an announcement that they had over ordered on champagne, so that we would be forced to stay to drink it before the show could begin.

live music was played for guests while they waited

As the time approached half nine, two of the organisers, Alyx Barker and Erin Berman (pictured below) assured me that it would be worth the wait. At this point, after a long week of late nights, I was beginning to become sceptical. But as the show finally began, any feelings of doubt were replaced with awe as the first model walked down the runway.

Alyx (left) and Erin

The striking black lipstick, combined with moody, mysterious music, and the historic hall with it's vast ceilings created a dark Narnia-esqu feel. The models walked with a sense of regality like evil ice queens. Later the tone change slightly, still regal but less dark, the lipstick changing to a bold red to reflect this.

The dresses themselves were quite literally magical, fit for princesses and after a while the crowd began to clap for every creation.

The model in the link below looked like a mermaid: the gown's elaborate beading and colourful green-hued ruffels, shimmered like scales with each step she took

http://www.flickr.com/photos/oxfordfashionweek/5505448681/in/set-72157626089707877/

As an aspiring fashion journalist, it would be almost illegal to overlook this big colbat blue ball of fantasticness that strutted down the runway

http://www.flickr.com/photos/oxfordfashionweek/5506039214/in/set-72157626089707877/

And for every girl who ever wanted to be a princess: this dress is for you

http://www.flickr.com/photos/oxfordfashionweek/5505457815/in/set-72157626089707877/

The night, like the rest of the week was a complete success, ending with speeches and a charity auction that included several exclusive pieces including an Alexander McQueen, yes Alexander McQueen, clutch.