We were invited Friday 1st June to the launch of Island Fusion's 2012
presentation 'Once Upon a Time.' I went in with high expectations, as I
was thoroughly impressed by their innovation last year. I'm talking of
course about the concept of a 'frontline' (or what they call 'First
Call') for foreday morning jouvert. These were not the regular t-shirt
and shorts, oh no! One pieces in sexy prints and shiny, stretchy fabrics
called to mind a highly glamorous swimsuit rather than a foreday
costume.
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| Last year's theme was Safari, by the way |
Now the purists have always maintained foreday is a time to get dutty, roll about in the paint/mud/water, and generally go home having thoroughly ruined your outfit but they sold out in a hot minute so it's obvious the divas out there like it! I have to say though, everyone I saw in a First Call had not a lick of paint on the costume, nor a hair out of place.
The launch was held at the Mount Gay's Visitor Centre, and as it was free until 11 everyone got there early. We arrived to meet a huge crowd at the door who couldn't get in. They have promised a bigger venue next year for the patrons who were disappointed. Once inside, the venue was packed to capacity, they seem to have plenty of support amongst their market, which is by and large middle class fashion forward females in their twenties.
The costumes were displayed by models making a full circle of the venue. Now, the full impact did not hit me until I scrutinised the photos after. The backlines were a basic white tee with a green logo design, plus shiny spandex hot pants. Not bad, but last year's was a bit better design wise:
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| 2011 backline |
How do I say this tactfully-with the exception of the Some Like it Hot frontline, the First Call costumes were a HOT mess. Asking around for opinions the comments were that they looked like something you could get for cheap in a Halloween shop. I don't know why, where, or how but the band fell down this rounds.
Having digested these designs for the rest of the weekend, imagine my delight when I heard the news: it is now three days after the launch and new costumes are out. It shows humility and grace on Island Fusion's part that they would do this revamp. And here they are!
Under the Sea
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| Old backline |
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| Old First Call design |
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| New backline |
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| New First Call design |
Magic Carpet
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| Old First Call design |
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| New backline |
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| New First Call design |
Some Like It Hot
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| Old First Call design |
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| New backline |
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| New First Call design |
Lost in The Woods
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| Old First Call design |
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| New First Call design |
Tinkerbell / Enchanted Forest
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| Old backline |
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| Old First Call design |
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| New backline |
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| New First Call design |
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Pride Rock
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| Old First Call design |
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| New First Call design |
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| Oh, and males, I guess this is it for you... |
Registration starts this Friday 8 June at Weisers on the Bay, from 5pm, it is also a lime. Past band members have the chance to register first. The section Lost in the Woods is exclusive to Banks, and Some Like It Hot is exclusive to Chefette. Prices are $150 BDS for backline, while First Call range from $190-230 BDS. Package includes shuttle access, drinks, breakfast, security, and complimentary after party. I saw the band having a whale of a time on the road last year. Who knows, this might be the year I decide to live out my Tinkerbell fantasy on the road!
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