Couture takes a beating at pub fashion shows

THERE is something very odd about having a fashion show at a pub. A model sashaying down the ramp has an undeniable charm and grace but watching a model trying to negotiate the close to nothing space between tables and chairs at a pub make one cringe.
But, more importantly, the purpose of a fashion show is lost at a pub because the crowd is predominantly male and the clothes showcased are mostly for the fairer sex.
Says a city fashion designer, “It is nothing but titillation. I just can’t imagine why designers want to showcase their collection at a pub. It is thoroughly unprofessional.�
The dim lighting, blaring music and the haze of cigarette smoke make it virtually impossible to see clearly what the models are wearing. Complains a lady patron, “It is hard to make out the colours or the design with the lights flashing and the guys all crowding whatever little space there is to get a better look. Worst are the comments that are passed.�
But for the designers and the models, the money is good and the effort minimal. For the pubs it’s a great way to attract customers. And for the guys, a blatant opportunity to lech. Says a model, “A proper fashion show doesn’t happen very often in the city and even when it does, local models are rarely chosen. Established models from Mumbai, Delhi and Banglore are given preference. So we might as all well do these pub shows.�
But the models do agree that doing such shows is not comfortable. And though this may sound surprising, it’s the male models who are taunted the most. But the philosophy of the models seems to be very obvious – ‘we are getting paid for this so we will grin and bare it.’