Diamond Designs – Hasan Hejazi dresses Marina and The Diamonds

I like to think that I am girl of simple tastes. All I need to be content in this world is the company of good friends, a glass of something alcoholic in my hand and a few tunes to throw some moves to.

Late last month I just about managed all three. Having been invited to Baroque in Mayfair to hear Marina and The Diamonds perform, I trotted down to Hyde Park Corner to meet my friend and headed to the venue, looking forward to a cocktail or two and a bit of a boogie. Knowing that Baroque is part of the Playboy franchise, I admit I had my reservations. Needless to say, the waiting staff were dressed in corsets, bunny ears and bob tails – and not a lot else. I managed to silence the screeching feminist inside and instead mentally praised Hugh and co. for employing a healthy range of women of different shapes and sizes. As I wondered where I could get one of the pink corsets for my fine self, I sampled a rather tasty Hoxton Gin cocktail and indulged in a selection of nibbles.

“Mmm, the evening’s off to a promising start” I said, after a rather pleasant bite of pate. “Yeah, I just love Foie Gras” My pal enthused. My inner hippie went into shock as the green guilt set in. As the cocktails came to an abrupt end – our sorrow was soon replaced with joy as Marina took to the stage. She sounded amazing and treated the crowd to a great performance full of her hits and some lesser known songs, including her new single “How to be a Heartbreaker.” Her dress had been designed exclusively for the event by Hasan Hejazi who, since graduating in 2010, has already dressed the likes of Kylie, Leona and Jessie J. Named “Baroque”, it mirrored the mood of the venue perfectly. Needless to say, it suited Marina (who Hejazi considers not only a good friend but also his muse) perfectly, flattering her petite frame and allowing her to move easily throughout the performance, which was coy, cattish and kitsch, all at the same time.

So, will I go back to Baroque? Well, if Marina and The Diamonds return or I need to find a good corsetiere, I might just do so. But, will I eat Foie Gras again? I don’t know about that. But you know what they say. Ignorance is bliss…