The Theatre Royal Drury Lane became the epicenter of glamour as supermodels, acting legends, royalty, and renowned figures from the world of show business converged for the Vogue World Show.
This dazzling, one-of-a-kind event, billed as a “multi-act celebration of the British performing arts,” marked the grand opening of London Fashion Week.
The red carpet saw the likes of Sienna Miller, Rita Ora, Jodie Turner Smith, and Winnie Harlow gracing the event, with a discreet entrance by Victoria Beckham.
Maternity Style and Daring Displays
For the Opening Night-themed soirée, Sienna Miller, who is expecting her second child with boyfriend Oli Green, turned heads with her bold maternity style.
She confidently flaunted her bump in a crop top paired with a puffball skirt.
Meanwhile, Jodie Turner-Smith stole the spotlight with her audacious attire—a black thong, silk evening gloves, and a large black satin bow strategically covering her chest.
Model Winnie Harlow exuded glamour in a plunging black velvet gown adorned with a statement white satin coat featuring a dramatic puffed-up neckline.
Rita Ora added to the fashion spectacle with a striking black fishtail dress.
A Clash of Titans: Anna Wintour and Edward Enninful
Amid reports of a power struggle, Editor-in-Chief Dame Anna Wintour, accompanied by British Vogue’s own editor, Edward Enninful, arrived at the event.
The gathering, conceived by Anna Wintour, marks the first time Vogue World has taken place in London, following its launch in New York the previous year.
Notably, this exclusive affair was accessible only to the rich and famous, with ticket prices soaring as high as £2,521.70.
Outside the venue, a queue stretching over 500 feet bore testament to the event’s allure.
A Taste of Luxury and Indulgence
Upon arrival, guests were enveloped in an ambiance reminiscent of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.
They were offered Coach pashminas and complimentary tequila at the bar, further enhancing the sense of opulence.
Attendees were treated to “treats” in the form of Estee Lauder lipsticks and indulgent servings of sherbet and licorice.
Editorial Transition and Power Dynamics
The event comes in the wake of the announcement that Chioma Nnadi, a Londoner, is set to replace Edward Enninful as the editor of British Vogue.
This transition marks a significant change for the magazine, as Edward Enninful will assume a “global advisory position” at Vogue, allowing him to engage in broader creative projects.
However, it is widely speculated that Anna Wintour remains the undisputed authority within the Vogue empire, effectively ensuring her continued tenure as Vogue’s Editor-In-Chief.
Royalty and Hollywood Grace the Red Carpet
Princess Beatrice of York, along with her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, added a regal touch to the red carpet.
The royal couple had a busy week, attending the V&A Chanel Exhibition before this star-studded event.
Beatrice looked elegant in a green silk dress, complemented by diamond drop earrings.
Additionally, Kate Winslet showcased her impeccable style in a white suit, accessorized with dainty droplet earrings.
AJ Odudu made a striking entrance in a vibrant metallic purple mini dress with a dramatic train and a unique ruffled collared neckline.
Jenna Coleman channeled vintage Hollywood glamour with her ensemble, featuring a black satin dress, a white lace shawl, elbow-length velvet gloves, and platform heels.
Lady Victoria Hervey, Game of Thrones stars Emilia Clarke and Maisie Williams, and former Strictly star Emma Weymouth were among the other notable attendees.
An Extravaganza for a Cause
This extravagant event, serving as a fundraiser for Britain’s performing arts industry, holds immense significance in supporting the arts.
Ticket sales proceeds are earmarked for various theater companies, including the National Theatre, Royal Opera House, and the Royal Ballet.
The show, curated by BAFTA and Olivier-winning director Stephen Daldry, show director Emily Burns, creative producer Fran Miller, along with the Vogue team, promises a grand display of performing arts.
The dress code, aptly named “Opening Night,” emphasizes the event’s theatrical theme. It’s a night to celebrate the arts and contribute to their preservation.
A Bizarre Show Unfolds
Viewers of the Vogue World Show’s YouTube livestream were left bewildered by the eccentric performance.
The spectacle began with Kate Moss engaging in an interpretive dance, followed by Cara Delevingne’s appearance in a punk-inspired outfit amidst the crowd.
Social media buzzed with comments expressing confusion and surprise at the unconventional dances of Kate and Cara.
Grand Finale with Iconic Supermodels
The Vogue World show concluded on a high note with an electrifying performance by Annie Lennox, who belted out the Eurythmics hit “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This).”
Supermodels Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, and Christy Turlington graced the stage, holding hands to the delight of the audience.
This star-studded moment celebrated the cover stars of Vogue’s US and UK September issues.
The models strutted through the crowd, embodying their iconic modeling prowess.
The event culminated in a spectacular fashion extravaganza, with Cara Delevingne making a reappearance in her punk-inspired look.
In sum, the Vogue World Show at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane was an extravagant affair that blended fashion, celebrity, and the performing arts while also making a significant contribution to support the arts in Britain.
The event’s eccentricities and star-studded moments added to its allure and will likely be remembered as a highlight of London Fashion Week 2023.
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