So I’m back with another review for NHC 2015. The launches are in full effect for the season 🙂

Next up is Utopia Mas launch with their presentation for 2015 ‘Le Chic’.

Unfortunately with a busy schedule that night I just missed their live presentation so I won’t be reviewing them on this basis but managed to still see some of their costumes and was lucky enough to Speak to Mr David Brown, the designer for the band.

First off here is a little history for you.

Utopia Creative Arts is the brain child of husband and wife David and Judith Brown. They believe that Utopia is the creation of new and imaginative designs – bringing together families, creating new friendships and presenting carnival to the community. This Bedfordshire based band is still relatively new to Notting Hill but a big name is other UK Carnivals.

The presentation of Le Chic has three sections, the designer David wanting to bring ‘Class back to mas’, with an element of chic style.

The presentation for the band judging on pictures and some video footage was that it was a great success, the band’s family aspect gave it an open stage to portray their kids costumes and even had a dance troupe and Pan Diva to perform.

In a very rare twist the band uses its own members rather than paid professionals. Now I’m not trying to keep you models out of a job but there is something electric about seeing your actual band members in a costume, it really does help your masqueraders picture themselves in their costume.

Personally I feel the theme to be a little dry. I love to see the theme as soon as I look at the sections. I love to know the story immediately, and I do think without explanation the theme can fall a little flat on first looks. Don’t get me wrong the costumes look great but it’s not pushing the boundaries to something I haven’t seen before.

This year they are bringing you three sections.

Belle en Noir

Ooh La La

Trini Chic

The prices for the costumes are very reasonable.

• Standard kids costume ranging from £40-£80
• Standard £149 (includes feathered headpiece)
• Frontline £225, and Premium £325.

I know a lot of people will think that these costume prices are still ranging in the high factor but if you look at the package given they actually have a lot more options and extras even in their standard package. Costumes were light weight, well made and constructed, so well worth the money.

Visit www.utopiacreativearts.co.uk for the full price list.

I definitely feel the more traditional mas aspect with a mix of modernisation in this band, and absolutely loving the all ages, family orientated band. This Bedford band is definitely a force!

My Mas Score is 7/10

You can check out all the pictures UKSS captured of Utopia Mas band launch here.