Fashion is back… to the FUTURE

FS2024 in review

As dark descended and the thrill of a night out crept closer, students dressed in varying metallics flocked the hallowed cobblestone streets of St Andrews to Lower College lawn Saturday evening for the chance to watch St Andrews’ (arguably) biggest and (certainly) hottest event of the year — FS2024 | FUTURE. 

A sharp about-face from last year's theme, Revival, this year's techno-futuristic theme seemed a natural progression and a satisfying tie together. It also served the purpose of a flexible and creative theme which attendees took to heart in their attire — hardly a person could be found without some silver shimmer hiding somewhere on their outfit. 

This year, the charity fashion show aimed to raise money for Genetic Alliance UK, a national charity helping those and the families of those affected by rare genetic conditions. In addition to ticket sales, which ranged from £75-95, an increase from last year's already steep price, the committee hosted an auction during the show’s intermission with items like hockey tickets going for £1000 and a three-litre bottle of Moet selling at £375. 

The show itself boasted an impressive host of sponsors from Red Bull, which standard guests were offered upon arrival, to Chanel, who auctioned off a gift box. A host of local businesses like Spoiled Hairdressing and the Adamson also sponsored the event. 

The venue had a similar set-up to previous years with a long, t-shaped stage, this year with the addition of a platform in the centre that was a huge benefit for those of us who hadn’t arrived early enough to guarantee front-row seats. A VIP ticket holder area surrounded the majority of the stage, and in the back was a raised platform for corporate attendees. There were Union bars spread through the venue making it easy to grab a drink, a major improvement from Starfields earlier in the year. 

The show started on time with a dramatic all-black entrance by the models. The choreography, devised by Emily McMenamin and Emma VanPeenan was straightforward and cohesive, an improvement from previous shows that have felt cluttered and choppy, and for an already long show (running from 8 pm-10 pm with an intermission), the minimal repetition of looks was appreciated. For two hours models paraded out in a range of looks from high-profile designers such as Uniqlo, Eileen Fisher, Rowing Blazers, and Ramy Brook and pieces by student designers from across the country. 

Creative Director Brett Borthwick’s vision for FS2024 centred on the human relationship with technology, particularly how “technology is utilised as a vehicle for identity expression in our day and age” and “beautifully depict the three phases of the web, and comment on the ways our digital identity and consideration for technology has evolved over the years.” The fashion itself wasn’t inherently futuristic but the show itself was still dynamic and engaging and the evening itself was well-organised and seamlessly run, providing students with an evening of stress-free fun. 

After the model's final strut in bright, fun swimwear and the iconic committee run out, showering the VIP section in Moet spray, the afterparty kicked into gear. Students could grab food from one of the multiple vendors stationed outside the tent or head back into the party. With sick beats, multicoloured lights, and the DJ appearing to float over the crowd, the crowd's energy level ramped up, a seemingly impossible feat. With songs like ‘Dancing Queen’ by ABBA, Murder on the Dancefloor’ by Sophie Ellis-Bexter, and ‘Ribs’ by Lorde playing throughout the night, there was no question of whether or not to dance. 

Overall, the show was a fun and creative, albeit pricey, evening out and a chance to step out of the familiar streets of this small, grey, seaside town and into the glamorous world of high fashion and luxury. I have little doubt that anyone in attendance didn’t leave feeling energised, inspired, and excited for the FUTURE of FS.

Photos: Ilaria Freccia and FS Committee