funfair fashion

Meadham Kirchhoff's Spring/Summer 2012 Ready-to-Wear collection brought back some wonderful childhood memories of going to the fairground, riding on carousels and teacups, winning giant teddy bears, having one's face painted with garish glitter, eating lollipops and candyfloss (channelled through the models' fabulously fluffy hair) . The models even carried kitsch teddy coin purses in which to keep their pennies for the rides.

The collection also reminded me of old-school children's television shows such as The Magic Roundabout (bows, pouffy skirts and rosy cheeks à la Florence), Tweenies (check out those pinnies, sunglasses and patterned shirts), and Playdays (who could forget Rosie, the Magical Musical Merry-go-Round?!).

And what about those frothy gowns, pretty bows, pom-pom heels and permed blonde hair? Barbie dolls are back - only this time, they've taken to the catwalk!

I knew there was a reason for refusing to let go of my favourite childhood tutus, princess dressing-up costumes and teddy bear jumpers. I think it's time for a rummage through the boxes in the attic...