VS: Sprezzatura in Motion

Sprezzatura, the Italian concept coined by Baldassare Castiglione, embodies effortless elegance and grace. This year, VS infused this ethos into every facet of their show — from choreography and attire to lighting and music — delivering a performance that epitomised their commitment to refined artistry.

After savouring lavender margaritas in the reception area, guests entered the stage room, immediately enveloped in a serene atmosphere as soft hues of purple, blue, and white bathed the space in a tranquil glow.

As the lights dimmed, the room hushed in anticipation. Two large screens flickered to life, unveiling a heartfelt video featuring interviews with VS committee members and models. Led by Creative Director Ines Tramarin, the film explored their personal journeys, with questions such as, “What does being part of VS mean to you?” and invitations to share their favourite memories. Their reflections painted a picture of more than just a fashion show — their collective experiences with VS reflected confidence, connection, and belonging, aligning seamlessly with the evening’s theme of effortless elegance and authenticity.

As the video ended and the screens faded to black, a hush fell over the audience, shattered by a striking opening moment. A group of male models took centre stage, executing a daring lift as they effortlessly hoisted a female model into the air. She moved with fluid grace, her arms swirling in hypnotic motions, embodying the essence of sprezzatura. Tramarin, who choreographed the opening and closing sequences, wanted this dreamlike moment to set the tone for the show — an enchanting blend of strength and elegance that captivated the audience from the start.

The show then unfolded in a dynamic interplay of lights and music, seamlessly weaving between moods and styles. A breathtaking sequence saw female models gliding across the stage in flowing white gowns to the haunting strains of ‘Young and Beautiful’ by Lana Del Rey. From there, the energy built, transitioning into sharper, more electrifying moments, such as the bold edge of ‘Alejandro’ by Lady Gaga. The show balanced these contrasts beautifully, moving between ethereal romance and striking intensity, keeping the audience engaged throughout.

A statement from the playbill, written by Tramarin, captured the essence of the show: “Every step on the runway is intended to evoke the self-assurance that comes from knowing who you are and reveling in that truth.” This sentiment rang true throughout the night, not just in the way the models carried themselves, but also in the choreography, which allowed them to inject their own personalities into each movement. The seamless integration of behind-the-scenes interviews added another layer of authenticity, offering the audience another layer of connection to the show. India Kolb’s choreography deserves particular praise for designing sequences that challenged the models while maintaining an air of sprezzatura. The lifts, though intricate and demanding, never felt clunky or overworked, instead radiating elegance and fluidity while blending strength and grace.

Unlike other St Andrews student fashion shows, this production incorporated a video series interwoven between model and committee interviews and the show itself. This approach added an interactive element, allowing the audience to experience behind-the-scenes moments and connect with the students on a more personal level. A striking video interlude featured models in a choreographed music video showcasing fashion from the show. This multi-layered presentation enhanced the event’s energy and depth, making for a truly immersive experience.

Following a brief intermission, guests returned to their seats, expecting the second half to begin immediately. Instead, a solo violinist took the stage, performing a captivating piece that gently drew the audience back into the atmosphere of Sprezzatura. This unexpected yet beautiful interlude set the tone for the second act.

While the first half of the show had an ethereal, whimsical quality — featuring flowing white dresses and ball gowns — the second half took on a more vibrant, high-energy feel. Streetwear pieces took centre stage, accompanied by upbeat music that electrified the space. One particularly impressive moment featured another lift sequence where multiple male models hoisted their female counterparts, creating a breathtaking visual display. In another playful touch, models swapped denim jackets mid-runway, draping them over their partner's shoulders to show the piece’s versatility. 

The momentum of the second half built anticipation for the grand finale. As the opening notes of Coldplay’s ‘A Sky Full of Stars’ filled the venue, models and executive committee members burst onto the stage, radiating pure joy. The energy peaked as confetti cannons erupted, showering the space in a dazzling cascade of colour and celebration. It was a spectacular conclusion to an unforgettable night.

Photo by Cecilia Ryan