Carlisle St Bazaar

St Kilda proved a fashion hit last Sunday evening, when the ever-growing Carlisle St fashion strip stepped out of the shadows and onto the catwalk, at the opening of the newly re-decorated Greyhound Hotel.  Carlisle St Bazaar put on an extravagant display of colour and wonder, showcasing an eclectic collection from local designers, as well as an exciting array of vintage couture.

The festivities kicked off around 3pm at the Greyhound Hotel. And what an amazing venue it is now. This once dark, dingy and cramped pub is now a large open polished venue with professional stage, sound and lighting. No expense has been spared. This venue truly has the ‘Wow’ factor.

Photo Courtesy of http://www.melbourneplaces.com/

The evening, called ‘Goddess on Parade’, was hosted by Kate Buck, who introduced an awesome line up of local live bands, including The Mercy Kills, Fascinators, The Dames, Los Dominados and Buck’s own band, Buckyball Baby. The ever-fabulous Slash Darling, of Tranny Bingo fame – as well as appearances in Joy FM and her own live shows – introduced each act in style. In fine form and fabulously frocked, her performance did not disappoint.

An exciting highlight of the evening was the outstanding four-part fashion parade, held hourly between the bands.  Each part had a different flavour and the crowd was treated to fun and fashion presented, styled and organised by designer Mary Renshaw. The parade showcased some of the wonderful fashion available at the Carlisle St Bazaar.

The first parade featured a 1920’s to1930’s theme; the second 1950′s, 60′s and 70’s fashion; the third, ‘party wear’; and, to finish off, Glam Rock.  Each show bristled with the energy of 12 beautiful models, all novices and quite obviously having fun with the clothes and the crowd.  Mary Renshaw’s styling, and her selection of clothes from the various boutiques within Carlisle St Bazaar, contributed to making it a delightful evening of entertainment.

The parade also celebrated the reopening of the Bazaar, which moved to glamorous new heights a few months ago, when the traders exchanged their ground floor lease to the upper floor of the same house. In their new premises, they have managed to retain the charm and charisma of the old residence, allowing individual retailers their own rooms, each opening off a central corridor, and with their own unique style and personality.