Manoel Island becomes a beauty spot

Malta's first international fashion show - Passion for Fashion - will take images of the island around the globe with plans set in motion for it to be screened in 50 countries, including Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

Maltese and foreign models on Saturday strutted down a cross-shaped runway set up on Manoel Island in exquisite dresses against the amazing backdrop of Valletta and its twinkling lights on the other side of Marsamxett Harbour. The unique stage offered a great view to all spectators.

A fantastic fireworks display, which illuminated the evening sky, caught the eye of host Jo Squillo, who spoke highly of Malta, repeatedly saying that the island was a fantastic destination. Her television station, TV Moda, organised the event together with Renaissance Productions Ltd. in collaboration with the Malta Tourism Authority.

Evening wear for the upcoming autumn-winter season by top Italian fashion houses, including Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Roberto Cavalli, La Perla, Mariella Burani, Gai Mattiolo, Versace and Valentino, was worn resplendently by the models.

Maltese designers Charles and Ron also had the opportunity to showcase five of their designs.

Siberian model Ludmilla Radchenko, who shot to fame on Italian reality programme La Talpa, told The Times that she really wished to return to Malta on holiday.

The model described her experience on La Talpa as a positive one in every sense, even because of its physical challenges - Ms Radchenko considers herself the adventurous type. The only downside was the split with her former boyfriend but she was quick to add that she is now dating Franklin, another protagonist of the show.

The model's next television adventure will start on Thursday when the blonde beauty will be busy co-hosting On The Road, to be aired on Italia Uno.

Although this was the first international fashion show to be held in Malta, there are prospects for it not to be the last as TV Moda expressed great interest in returning to the island for another night of fashion.

Tourism Minister Francis Zammit Dimech was given the opportunity to further promote Malta when he was interviewed by Ms Squillo before the show.