Stars out at fashion fest

Glitz, glamour and, most importantly, style. They were the three ingredients at the launch of a four-day fashion fest in the West Midlands.

And it wasn’t just professional models who stepped out in style – guests at the opening gala evening of Birmingham’s Style in the City also pulled out all the stops to dress up to the nines.

Fancy frocks, killer heels, magnificent make-up and fab hair do’s were all around as the city launched the inaugural fashion extravaganza in a marquee in Centenary Square last night.

Celebrities such as Kelly Osbourne, Top Gear’s Richard Hammond and makeover duo Trinny & Susannah mingled with fellow fashion lovers as they kicked off the event.

And the no-nonsense style gurus were more than happy to offer their advice to yours truly, who was more than just a bit underdressed, having arrived straight from the office. “You have an amazing figure,” the girls said.

Brilliant, I thought, that’s a compliment and a half.

“But,” they continued. Here it comes, I thought, hit me with it. “But, you’re not making the most of it,” said Trinny.

“You’re wearing the right colour, but you you need to wear more figure-hugging clothes. You’re an hour-glass shape, and you aren’t showing it off as best as you could,” says Susannah, before Trinny whispers in my ear that their Magic Knickers would be perfect for ironing out my lumps and bumps.

“I think I’d need ‘miracle’ knickers,” I laugh.

Thankfully, the pair are called away for another interview before they can make any more comments, but they did say that they were thrilled to be in Birmingham and were stunned by the stylish appearance of the many guests at the gala evening – yours truly obviously not included. The duo are launching their very own Style Academy as part of the fashion extravaganza.

“We’re offering lots of advice and styles on how to dress for your shape, but looking at the ladies here tonight, they are look quite fantastic. It’s great to see them getting dressed up,” said Susannah.

Last night’s celebrations also included a catwalk fashion show, hosted by a slim-looking Kelly Osbourne, daughter of Brummie rock star Ozzie, and featuring Wolverhampton’s rising modelling star Gabriella Riggon, who was recently signed to front the latest Agent Provocateur lingerie campaign. “This will be the fashion event of the year,” Kelly told the crowd as she introduced the show.

Style in the City runs until Sunday. Tickets are available on 0871 231 0838 or www.styleinthecityevent.co.uk

By Maria Cusine.