"This is just sick" were the sentiments of one onlooker at the Arkadius show. Materials were basic, garments primative and a budgeted show created confusion for those that expected pretty frocks. But even without the pills and thrills of a classy catwalk act, the Arkadius collection managed to create a frenzied atmosphere mixed in with shock, delight and sheer terror. The deconstructed outfits were too extreme for ready-to-wear and perhaps too edgy for couture, but served their purpose as showcases of the designer's creativity.

The collection initially suggested a circus theme using poster paint colours, stripes and face paints, however the playful mood that was being projected, swiftly darkened into a sinister atmosphere as models appeared vulnerable and childlike dripping in red paint. Against a spine chilling beat, frightened girls ran out onto the catwalk wearing translucent tops which revealed baby dolls, shredded bodices smeared with handprints and heavy skirts and dresses violently decorated with flourescent paints and mirrored fragments.

The highlight of the show was a disorientated model who approached the crowd with red paint oozing out of her cupped hands who, after creating a sense of panic, dramatically smothered the paint across her ragged white shift dress. Arkadius himself made a brief masked appearance at the end of the show and revelled in the crowds applause and cheers. Even the confused and disgusted were impressed.