Pageant Of The Masters Dazzles With Fashion-Themed Production

While the Met Gala often comes to mind when considering the intersection of art and fashion, Laguna Beach’s Pageant of the Masters is setting a new standard this year with its production titled “A La Mode: The Art of Fashion.”

Celebrating its 91st edition, the Pageant of the Masters continues to impress with its innovative approach. This year’s theme highlights the profound role fashion has played throughout history and its enduring impact on global art and culture.

Departing from its traditional format of tableaux vivants—living pictures—the pageant opens with a dynamic fashion show. Actors portray celebrity figures, including Vogue editor Anna Wintour, known for her iconic bob and sunglasses, amidst other high-profile personalities. The scene captures a range of historical fashion styles, from Katharine Hepburn’s sharp suits to Grace Kelly’s elegant ball gowns, all while the paparazzi create a buzz.

Following this fashion-centric introduction, the production transitions to its celebrated living pictures segment. This part of the pageant features meticulously recreated artworks—paintings, sculptures, photographs, and even jewelry—complete with costumed volunteers posed to mirror the original pieces. Through these visual reenactments, the Pageant of the Masters continues its tradition of blending artistic excellence with historical fashion, offering a fresh perspective on the evolution of style.