Crowning Glory Of The Easter Parade

I have seen an annual Easter Fashion Parade in the streets of Barcelona, a few years back, most elegant & spectacular. Even though I had only seen one, I can still recall the scene and atmosphere the show incited and edged in my memory. At midday 180 people convened, assembled by the famous scenographer and hat specialists Nina Pawlowsky and Cristina de Prada, for the 5th Hat parade. Inspired by 'Easter Parade', the musical film of 1948, starred by the golden quartet of the era: Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, Ann Miller and Peter Lawford. That film was based in turn on the traditional Easter Parade that celebrates annually on the 5th Avenue of New York, in front of the San Patricio Cathedral.

The participants of that parade in Barcelona started off in front of the show windows of Gratacos, in the centre of the city, that leisurely sauntered, rather than marched, around the main avenues, informal but very elegantly dressed, with the most eye catching hats, the real stars and the biggest attraction. A bit like the famous annual Derby at the race court of England. Except that this was outdoors for the public, not having to pay colossal ticket price to get in, and be 'somebody' important enough to get to the spot that matters. Another difference, gentlemen could take part too, although they were of the very small minority and far more conservative in styles.

The ladies were all out to have a grand day, displaying their very colourful hats of innovative designs, ladylike or fanciful, tiny or outrageously enormous, discreet or pure fantasy ... while the city streets instantly took on a cheerful and festive atmosphere.

I would have had great fun joining it; hats have always been one of my favourite dress items. A pity that I wasn't born in the era of the 18th century, to fulfil my desire of wearing hats as daily wear. I still own quite a number of hats. They decorate my rooms now rather than me!

The TV News channel showed lovely hats but those published in the local paper looked rather ordinary! The photographer that covered the event was decidedly inapt for his job I would say.

Tag:easterparade

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