MASQUERADE 2000 and TEN

After the absolutely wonderful display of costumes we saw for Bachanalmas and Jewels de Carnaval, I must admit that my expectations are now hyper high in terms of what the market should expect for Notting Hill.

On M2K 2000, I probably did not fall in love with any of the costumes but they were vibrant, bold and arty. Masquerade 2000 describes its band as the leading band in Europe- this is probably up for contention given the proliferation of bands in the Notting Hill Parade but what I can say is that they are probably one of the more better organised bands and they are marketed very well. Masquerade 2000 has, for example, been showcased at the V&A museum, they have appeared in various carnivals across the globe and representatives have taken part in the International Kings and Queens Competition in Trinidad.

In 2010 they are bringing us “The Gift”. All the costumes range from 80 pounds to 120 pounds and at the time of writing one section at least, was already sold out. Their mas camp is located at 17 Argyll Avenue in Leyton (Unit 2). The sections are, in order, Carnival Art, Pop Art, Optical Art, Futurism, Cyber Angels, Cultural Angels and Graffitti. Neither the website nor the photos I managed to obtain explains what the sections are but I think the general vibe was to emulate the kitschness of the popular art movement, applying some element of science and technology and a general wanton escapsim to the costumes. I applaud this very much, it is very easy to come across with a Warriors/Tribal/Asian/African theme every year, I love the thinking outside of the box.

As for the costumes- they are definitely unusual in their use of masks but I do find the design a bit retro considering that they are meant to represent futuristic, pyschedelic concepts. Personally I also find them a bit heavy on the extras- there is a LOT of fabric and extra detailing, which would make me wonder how wearable they are on the road.

NHG'S pick? The pink and purple. That skirt adds just that extra bit of flair to bring out some sassy whinery. Wink wink.