Fabulous Fashions

The Past Pupils’ Association of Naparima Girls’ High School yesterday hosted its gala fundraiser “Fabulous Fashions Throughout The Years” at the Cascadia Hotel, St Ann’s, as they attempted to raise money to purchase audio visual equipment for the school’s multi-media room.

According to President of the Association Denise Harrison, the Tea and Fashion Show presented an opportunity for persons to just have fun, in addition to re-acquainting themselves with former classmates. Approximately 300 tickets were sold at a cost of $75, revealed Harrison, adding that the Association had just appointed a Northern Committee who would be coordinating activities in this part of the country. Former First Lady Zalayhar Hassanali was among the former pupils who agreed to “model” an outfit of her choice.

Mrs Hassanali stated that “this was just a fun thing,” and was the first to lead the models on stage, in the period 1940 — 1950. The presenter in this category remembered Mrs Hassanali as “always prim and proper” but “always appropriately dressed.” A smiling Mrs Hassanali then twirled to allow the audience a chance to view her light grey skirt and top, complete with a jacket and corsage, which was purchased in the United Kingdom. Local designs included outfits by Heather Jones and Meiling, as well as African and East Indian wear being modelled by Louise Brown-Clarke and Patricia Anthony, respectively.

Some of the models were accompanied by their daughters (who are now pupils at Nap’s), as well as their grand-daughters, who all proceeded to  demonstrate that “Nap’s girls know how to raise their skirts.” In the informal setting provided in the ballroom of the hotel, persons enjoyed themselves as they called out friendly greetings to the models as they moved through the crowd, while others were content to sit quietly at the back and just observe the proceedings. Entertainment throughout the evening included a monologue by former past pupil and model Avion Crooks; a dance performance by the Clico Shiv Shakti Dance Company; two renditions on the pan by Shivana Ragoonanan; and a song performed by Lucille Leacock entitled “The Greatest Love Of All.” Also in attendance was First Lady Dr Jean Richards, who was presented with a bouquet of flowers during the proceedings.