Carolyn Johnson, Freelance Writer

American designer and celebrity stylist, Indashio, walks the runway following the premiere of his collection at Style Week 2008. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

Saint International blocked Knutsford Boulevard for more than four hours on Sunday night, as Style Week 2008 culminated in 'Digicel Fashion Block' - a blazing, entertaining fashion show, featuring a runway half the length of the New Kingston hip strip.

Using the elements as themes for the evening, the more than 20 designers showcased were placed in one of four categories; wind, water, earth or fire.

Each segment began with a display of the elements, as interpreted by a group of dancers. This, along with Jerry D's vivacity, the sound of Coppershot, skimpy swimsuits, mini dresses and bare chests, kept the large audience entertained.

In keeping with the nature and design of the show, designers went outside the box, discarding the traditional and conservative.

Changing Men's fashion

The most obvious example came with the men's fashion. No longer were men in earth-toned, dark or conservative colours, the designs were bold and colourful.

Men wore coloured, patterned, leather, embellished and sparkly pants with shirts, which were similarly done.

Imaginative designs

Suits were accessorised with sheer or lace scarves in pink and purple. One suit comprised of burgundy pants, brown jacket, orange shirt and purple scarf.

Patterns went with stripes and, while colours were not coordinated, they looked good.

Sidcil's take on straw hats was imaginative with a Caribbean feel. Favvette had colourful, African accessories with embellished and metallic outfits. Bas Koster's Heineken-inspired designs were playful, incorporating puppets and designs from fabric patterned with images from a storybook.

The b.michael collection was elegant but among the most practical with form-fitting, beautiful gowns, culminating with a fishtail design. The highlight of this collection, however, was a US$80,000 gown made for Kate Blanchett. The strapless bodice was white with specks of black and silver while the white skirt flowed with a feathery layer at the back.

Exciting presentation

At 11:18 p.m., the fourth element, fire, was introduced. The fire presentation was by far the most exciting. Costumes were provided by 3D designs, the fire dancers juggled torches, blew fire and danced with a wheel of fire, much to the delight of the audience.

The fireworks from the stage and the dancers, suspended by a crane, were simply icing on the cake.

As the evening drew to a close, the acts appeared rushed with fewer designs being presented and models failing to walk the length of the runway. The Ed Hardy collection closed with a bang. This was followed by fireworks.

After a colourful exhibition of swimsuits, jeans, T-shirts and belts, an exhilarating evening ended.

Designers

Designs showcased at Fashion Block 2008 were b.michael, 3D, Shades of Africa, Rick B's, Bas Koster, Dominique Acevedo, Yahdie Conscious, Judith Duncan, Neah Lis, Gillespie Fashions, Melissa Dunkley's Midiz, Mamayashi, Shem Deeke, Sidcil Hats, Ed Hardy, Indashio, Kevin O'brian, Favvette, Grossett Jewellery, White Skyy, Rachel Linton, Kingsley Thorn, Julia Designs, Ali Lue, and Les Campbell.