Above: The show business of Spanish fashion—the catwalk, the front row and the VIP Kissing Room.
Dear Shaded Viewers,
A cursory glance at David Delfín’s libido-soaked Instagram feed feels like a glimpse into the private world of Spain’s answer to Marc Jacobs: Here one finds the post-gym cocktease snaps (often taken in an undisclosed elevator) alone or with friends, and the come-hither boudoir moments. It’s the same brand of insta-titillation that Marc often serves up for world-weary fashion followers: If you’re bored of the lifeless chiffon ruffles or chinchilla elbow warmers, have a look at my chiseled chest and abs.
And then there are the famous faces in the front row, the longtime friends. With Marc, we get the likes of Sofia Coppola and Victoria Beckham. At David’s shows the vibe is decidedly more Almodóvar (and more to my liking): Rossy de Palma, whose visage is a Picasso painting personified, transgender icon Bibi Andersen, Spanish-Mexican pop goddess Alaska and her husband Mario Vaquerizo of the band Nancys Rubias (the short-hand explanation: a Spanish reincarnation of The New York Dolls).
As you may have already reckoned, the similarities between the two buff and lusty designers ends with the clothes. Delfin’s mannish silhouettes are, from season-to-season, consistently clean, strong and long with the occasional tweak, like this season’s sports team banners, complete with rah-rah fringe.
I dragged my Rosetta Stone out of my sock drawer to translate Delfin’s show notes: “I’m running around, playing with appearances. This time the scarves are the backbone. Sometimes on garments, other part of them and in the end only them. A desire, a symbolic attempt to transfer the interest, defense, passion, zeal and pride to the Spanish fashion.”
Delfin’s muse, Bimba Bose, always opens his shows. It’s always great to see her emanating her androgynous glamour.
David closes the show like a butch exclamation point.
I could not resist stalking Mario and Alaska to the far end of the Kissing Room for a photo-op. They are very sweet and more than happy to oblige. I adore them, especially Alaska.
David and Bibi Andersen (right) in the Kissing Room.
I am living for Alaska’s eyeliner!
Rossy de Palma mon amour.
When nose meets jawbone, magic happens.
Thanks for reading.
Besos,
Glenn Belverio
