Viva Las Vegas
04-05-2005
If you like nothing more than pure in-your-face theatrics then the Liberace Costume Display at Selfridges could be right up your alley. We are talking sequins, crystals, bugle beads and artificial pearls by the bucket load. Liberace was known throughout the world as ‘Mr. Showmanship’ and he certainly had the dress sense to match.
For decades he dazzled with his music, costumes and charisma. From live shows to TV and movies Liberace was a regular on the Las Vegas circuit and he famously became the highest paid entertainer in the city’s history. His amassed wealth was reflected in his wardrobe, cars and homes, Liberace had fun with them all – the words ostentatious and gaudy were irrelevant to him.
His costumes usually live in The Liberace Museum but for the very first time they have left Las Vegas to make a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Selfridges, London. Many of the creations were designed by theatrical costumier – Michael Travis. His influences ranged from 1970s glam rock to military uniforms and royal dress – all served up with a heavy dose of sparkle. Numerous outfits were created around the jumpsuit shape with the addition of a dramatic cape here and an oversized partlet collar there.
The costumes are now on display on the lower ground floor and Liberace’s dazzling Rhinestone Roadster can be found in the Oxford Street meets Orchard Street window.
Up on the fashion floors there’s plenty of Vegas themed merchandise to get customers in the mood. For men you can find t-shirts galore, take your pick from Elvis photo-prints at D&G, colourful palms at Full Circle and a variety of Vegas inspired graphics from Unknown Pleasures. At the smarter end of the scale how about a slick pinstripe suit by Vivienne Westwood, just the ticket for a night at the poker table. Elsewhere, for more Wild at Heart than smart – check out Spring/Summer collections from Roberto Cavalli, Givenchy and John Richmond.
For the ladies, Selfridges has some exclusive products specially created for the Vegas experience. There’s a Chloe Paddington bag in silver leather, a showstopping black and metallic show-girl style dress made-to-order from Matthew Williamson and a Theo Fennell lucky star diamond pendant.
1 Vegas graphic used on T-shirt by Unknown Pleasures
2 Spring/Summer John Richmond print ad
3 Elvis photo-print vest by D&G
4 Chloe Paddington Bag
5 M.A.C. Viva Elvis inspired look
It really is Viva Las Vegas as the theme continues on every floor. The cosmetics hall was buzzing with activity in a shimmer and bronzing frenzy. Check out the Elvis inspired make-up range from M.A.C, self tanners and boosters from Yves Saint Laurent Sun and razzle-dazzle eyes courtesy of Bobby Brown’s Eye Pearls.
Other in-store attractions include: shows from illusionists, crooners and showgirls. The Little White Wedding Chapel, cocktails in the Ultra Lounge, poker lessons and some rather fabulous and occasionally naughty window displays by David LaChapelle.
Vegas Supernova is on at Selfridges in London, Manchester and Birmingham until 15th May 2005.
By JoJo Iles
