Alex Perry returned with all the glitz and glamour you’d expect with his spring/summer 2007 collection, “Hawaiian Princess”. 

The red carpet was literally rolled out for Australia’s fashion industry elite and a posse of celebrity Perry admirers, including Megan Gale and boyfriend Andy Lee, actor Holly Brisley, writer Tara Moss, model Laura Csortan, TV presenter Shelly Horton and singer Candice Alley.

Then arriving fashionably late was Australia’s Next Top Model host Jodhi Meares and Perry’s fellow judges Charlotte Dawson and Jez Smith who stopped briefly to chat to Fashion TV and boycotted the mass of photographers lining the entrance of Cargo Hall. They dashed inside to take their front row seats and the doors were closed – the venue had well and truly reached capacity – leaving many to stand and line the back walls, and many others disappointed outside.

While the title “Hawaiian Princess” may bring up images of hibiscus flowers and palm tree motifs for some, thank god they were non-existent in Perry’s world.

Think more of a palette of tropical sorbets in coral, lemon, lilac and lime. Perry presented floor-sweeping gowns a Hawaiian princess would recline in, poolside on a balmy night, at a VIP party with a piña colada in hand.

Australian model Miranda Kerr, face of Portmans and newest recruit by lingerie giant Victoria’s Secret, was the surprise opener of the runway show. Her beauty and strut on the catwalk demonstrated why she’s generating so much international interest.

Amongst the Elizabeth Taylor-style dresses were frocks with a futuristic twist and a few literally ‘cheeky’ mini dresses, which left little to the imagination. One of which was an island-inspired coral mini with an embossed halter detail and cut out at the bust, which added a sporty twist to the design. But as the hemlines soared on the pastel-pretty frocks, the audience sealed their approval with applause.

The hair and make-up complimented the look. Hair was sleeked back in high ponytails full of bounce. Eyes were the main focus painted with hot pink glitter finished with black eyeliner and lots of lashes.

It was however Perry’s old-school glamour which really impressed. Donatella Versace herself would have approved of the curve-enhancing evening gowns.  One floor length multi-coloured pastel dress featured a boned bodice and a thick high-waisted belt. It was as if rainbow Barbie had come to life and was floating gracefully down the runway.

Alex Perry’s shows are becoming quite a spectacle, but it was a welcomed and refreshing change after a day of formulaic shift dresses. The media attention and celebrity cult following are deserved. Believe the hype – Alex Perry is one step closer to international stardom.