Chapter 639 Phoenix
Flora, the designer, finally managed to catch a break five minutes before the show was set to start. She positioned herself off to the side, taking sips of water and making sure the garments looked impeccable. Fortunately, the day proceeded without any hitches. Following the stern warning she issued yesterday, not a single model caused any issues.
The models had their makeup done, and those slated for the first half of the show were already in line.
"Knock them dead, Natalie!" Flora made a cheering gesture toward her.
Natalie chuckled. "Aren’t you worried I might outshine your designs?"
Natalie was known for her distinctive appearance, which sometimes drew more attention than the clothing itself. This worried some designers and brands, fearing their work would merely become a backdrop to her presence.
"Let them be outshone then," Flora replied with confidence, "If my designs can complement your elegance, that would be the highest praise."
The other models had grown accustomed to this dynamic; they understood that the trio shared a bond as close as sisters. Many admired their relationship.
"Jane," Flora called out softly, noticing the regal woman making her way back.
"Tina and Arthur are here too," Jane informed her in a steely voice as though she was gearing up for a fight.
"I'll go have a look," Flora said, hurrying off. With her daughter in attendance and despite the intricate nature of their relationship, she felt compelled to check in.
Arthur often brought his young daughter to visit, and for her sake, they maintained a semblance of cordiality.
Glancing from behind the curtain, Flora spotted a remarkably handsome man in the VIP section, awkwardly holding a child, who appeared to be over two years old.
The little girl was holding a lollipop, not eating it but speaking earnestly to her father. Her eyebrows were knitted together.
Whatever Arthur said next, it instantly transformed the child's frown into a radiant smile, drawing the attention and admiration of several nearby onlookers.
"Jane, please take Tina outside as the show draws to a close, so she doesn’t overhear anything unsuitable," Flora said upon her return.
With Natalie required on stage, Jane was the only person Flora trusted to look after Tina.
"No problem," Jane responded. She added worriedly, “But Flora, are you sure you’re ready for this?"
"I’ve been preparing for this moment since the competition started."
…
The fashion show was about to start.
The room dimmed to darkness, and a hush fell over the audience.
Then, breaking the silence, a piano note sounded.
One by one, lights began to illuminate the runway, unveiling a collection of elegant and slightly fantastical designs inspired by the Renaissance era.
The music intensified as a live ensemble of violins, cellos, and saxophones joined in.
"Live orchestra!" someone murmured in astonishment from the audience.
Those seated nearer could recognize the musicians and the logo on their instruments.
"Am I seeing this right? Is that the Royal Austrian Orchestra?"
"It can’t be, right?"
"It is! Amazing! Their lead violinist once tutored my sister!"
The excitement in the air was tangible.
Seeing a live orchestra at a fashion show was not unheard of; top brands and designers often featured such ensembles to highlight their sophistication, understanding that even the finest sound systems could not replicate the experience of live music. However, engaging such esteemed musicians was costly, and it required significant prestige to attract them.
Before witnessing the orchestra, few would have believed Flora Lee capable of securing such a renowned group for her event.
With the inclusion of the Royal Austrian Orchestra, the show's prestige soared, marking it as one of the most significant events by an emerging designer in recent years.
As the drums started, Natalie stepped onto the stage, dressed in a golden, lacey gown.
The gown clung to Natalie's form, accentuating her delicate collarbone, shoulders, slender arms, defined waist, and long, lean legs beneath the semi-transparent golden fabric.
With each step, the hem of her skirt flowed with a captivating grace, enchanting the audience with patterns that seemed to dance and shift.
Natalie embodied the quintessence of a woman reared in the upper echelons of American society—seemingly unacquainted with the harsher realities of the world, yet she carried herself with dignity and grace. This blend was a hallmark of Natalie's persona, perfectly encapsulating Flora's design aesthetic.
The unveiling of Natalie's face prompted a collective intake of breath—not solely in admiration of her dress but also in anticipation of her walk, to confirm if she had fully recuperated from her injury. Her stride, poise, and the sheer force of her presence on the runway were indeed more compelling than ever before. She commanded the runway, capturing the undivided attention of every onlooker.
The room fell silent, marked only by occasional sharp gasps of awe.
At the runway's end, Natalie furtively scanned the VIP area for Oliver, but he was nowhere to be seen. Instead, her gaze landed on young Tina, who was in Arthur's arms, sweetly sending kisses toward Natalie.
As the show progressed with the second and then the third model, the audience gradually emerged from the enchantment cast by Natalie, their attention now fully on the fashion show.
Influential figures in the industry nodded in approval at Flora's designs.
Journalists hastily jotted down notes, each vying to be the first to report on the grandeur of the occasion.
Whether it was the royal orchestra's performance or Natalie's magical return, the impact of the event was bound to create a stir.
About ten minutes into the show, it became evident that this was not just any fashion show. It was a theatrical experience, with each model portraying different clothing styles, stances, and philosophies through their distinct walks, poses, makeup, and expressions. This approach showcased the varied roles, personalities, and values of women in society.
The event was a sensory feast, whether one attended for the music, to admire the fashion, or to critically assess Flora's work from a professional angle.
As the music approached its climax, reminiscent of the finale of a grand ball, the cello's deep tones took the spotlight, supported by a powerful forte from the piano—a dramatic crescendo.
Natalie reappeared in a white gown featuring black detailing. The three-meter train highlighted her slender waist. Her makeup, though different from her first appearance, was clearly the work of the same artist, consistent in style but unique in the expression of her eyes and the aura she radiated.
She was akin to a phoenix rising from the ashes—regal, aloof, and majestic. Her every step radiated supreme confidence, captivating and earning the admiration of all who beheld her, leaving them in awe.
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