For newcomers to our university, the broad and vibrant variety of the St Andrews fashion scene may initially appear daunting, with a wide assortment of different fashion shows – each with their own particular identity and goals.

The Candlemas semester is known for its calender of fashion-orientated events, and failing to attend one of these incredible events would be nothing short of a grave mistake. Not only are these productions highly entertaining and very professional, they are also supportive of the many talented students we have at this university and to an array of worthwhile charities which the majority of the projects choose to support in one way or another.

If the hype surrounding the shows perplexes you, if you are eager to understand what differentiates them, or if you simply want to see what’s happening over the coming months, we have curated a brief overview of the major shows in St Andrews: what they are, when they are, and what you can expect in 2018.

Saturday, 17th February 

St Andrews Charity Fashion Show

Often referred to as ‘FS’, this is the longest running show on campus and one of the largest productions. Held on Lower College Lawn in a glamorous marquee (hopefully the weather will behave this year), guests can expect designers from Whisper Lingerie St Andrews to Vivienne Westwood, as hinted at by their photoshoots. This year’s theme is ‘Fracture’, and the nominated charity is the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families. Although Standard and VIP tickets for the show have already sold out, those who missed them can still grab after-party tickets whilst they are available.

Saturday, 24th February

DONT WALK Charity Fashion Show

Taking place the weekend after FS, DONT WALK 2018 is to be held at Madras Rugby Club, raising money for charities FHI 360 and Comic Relief. Built around their photo campaigns, dynamic videos, and Thursday bpm music collective nights at the Vic, the DONT WALK name is known for its sensuous and edgy allure and the show itself is surrounded with exclusivity and mystery. Tickets have already been released, however after-party information is expected in due course, so keep an eye on the Facebook page if you want to make an appearance.

Saturday, 10th March

Catwalk Charity Fashion Show

Catwalk is the headlining event of RAG week (‘Raising and Giving’ week if you aren’t aware), and is held later in the calendar this year on the 10th of March. Although one of the youngest shows, Catwalk has already made a name for itself with its diverse selection of models and spirited atmosphere. Held in the Union, this year’s show revolves around the theme of ‘Paradigm’, and will raise money for three charities: Families First, The Scottish Refugee Council, and Save the Children. Early Bird tickets are available Sunday via the Union’s website.

Sitara*

Sitara* brands itself as an ‘Asian fusion fashion show’, and is a show which very much stands out from the crowd due to its cultural blend of performance, fashion, music and art. Brought to you in collaboration with the Sanskriti Society, this show takes place later in the semester – usually around April. Because of this, specific details about the 2018 show are yet to be revealed, so make sure you stay tuned for more information. However, if the Model Launch in late November 2017 is anything to go by, we can expect a show just as exciting, exotic and intriguing as before. This year Sitara* will continue to support SOS Children’s Villages – Pakistan.

Label

More a ‘project’ than a fashion show, Label is well known for its online magazine promoting body positivity. Label’s campaign includes ‘body positive performances’ and fashion exhibitions in a variety of venues, celebrating beauty, inclusivity, and creativity, and aims to provide a platform for individuals to share their stories. Revealed at their launch party at the start of November, the 2018 show will have a fairytale theme, and is promoted as their last year in St Andrews. Label’s show usually takes place towards the end of our university’s fashion season, so keep an eye on their Facebook page for upcoming events and information.