VS Launch: Corporate Cuts & Lingerie Turns
By Ayla Ahmed & Ana Sunjka
Thank you again to VS for the invitation—right from the start, it was clear they were committed to delivering a genuine experience. With glasses of Prosecco in hand, thoughtfully arranged seating and a buzzing atmosphere, we settled in expecting something special. We weren’t disappointed.
The opening act set a strong precedent: three women appeared as the curtains swept aside, stepping out in impeccably tailored suits. It was a nod to the corporate-chic movement currently dominating runways, and with “Feeling Good” as the soundtrack, there was a real sense of occasion. The combination of white ensemble, bold silhouettes and lighting utilization delivered a strong visual statement.
As the show transitioned into the lingerie segment, there was an intriguing shift in tone. While the intention to celebrate femininity and sensuality was clear, the absence of male models left the segment feeling somewhat imbalanced. We feel that this implementation could be a chance to further deepen the narrative, revealing a more balanced portrayal of empowerment. We offer this critique so that the message of empowerment can be better communicated to the audience as a gender-inclusive concept, rather than one that solely focused on women, thereby minimizing potential misinterpretations of the segment.
On a more practical note, the stage felt a bit tight at moments, with a few audience members sharing the stage with the models. There were a few technical hiccups such as unexpected pauses in the music and some unplanned lighting cues; minor as they were, these moments halted the momentum. Still, these are challenges any production might face, and they don’t detract from the dedication and vision of the team.
Musically, after the promising opener, the set list hit a few interesting choices. Certain tracks, like the Chase Atlantic piece, didn’t quite harmonize with the overall aesthetic. A more carefully curated playlist—ideally sticking to a consistent genre or emotional tone—would have made the entire show feel more cohesive and immersive.
That said, the choreography was very creative. It wasn’t always perfectly polished, but the daring formations—especially the intricate pinwheel movement—brought a welcome originality to the stage. As the show progressed, we saw a cast that genuinely clicked. In the final looks, models displayed a noticeable camaraderie and confidence; that ease and chemistry elevated the performance, making even the less synchronized moments feel genuine rather than forced.
The audience’s enthusiasm was the final, crucial layer. Their open, energetic response created a feedback loop with the performers, turning the evening into a genuine experience. By the time we left, we felt like we had witnessed a collective effort that was bursting with promise, creativity and spirit.
In the end, this show gave us plenty to admire. Yes, there’s room to refine the thematic approach, tighten the soundtrack and streamline the staging. But the core ingredients are all there: vision, talent and a team that clearly enjoys working together. We look forward to seeing how they continue to grow and evolve, and we’re grateful for the chance to have been a part of this exciting chapter in their journey.
Image Courtesy of Cecilia Ryan & Lauren Buckbee
All views expressed in this article are the author’s own, and may not reflect the opinions of N/A Magazine.
Posted Friday 20th December 2024.
Edited by Maddie McDermott