The bespoke royal gowns have been unveiled for the 90th National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant as the cherished event gears up for a return to Adelaide’s streets.
Exclusively created by leading South Australian designer, Cristina Tridente of couture+love+madness, the regal gowns have been made for this year’s National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant Queen and Princesses.
Starting her love of fashion at an early age, Cristina’s passion for fashion shines through her designs. Her label couture+love+madness, showcases a signature style that is elegant and beautiful – a perfect fit for the pageant’s leading roles.
The 2022 royal outfits were officially revealed at the city’s Pulteney Grammar School on Friday 28 October, as students got a first look at the grand garments during a fitting tribute celebrating the Pageant’s community comeback, having previously been held at Adelaide Oval in 2020 and 2021.
Wearing the gowns on National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant Day on Saturday 12 November will be members of the specially selected Royal Family.
This year’s Royals are Queen Dunya Zahr, King Kevin Layugan, Princes Steve Connelly and Michele Rinaldi, and Princesses Hayley Sisson and Teagan Hazelwood.
As naming rights sponsor, National Pharmacies employees take up the starring roles.
The Pageant Royal Family has played a vital role in the event’s history since the 1940s, with the role of Pageant Queen first introduced following the Second World War.
Decades later, the roles continue to captivate and entertain audiences across the state each year.
Brian Gilbertson, National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant Director said that working with Cristina was an honour.
“Cristina is a hugely talented South Australian designer who adds a unique style and creativity to our royal gowns,” said Mr Gilbertson.
“Watching her vision for the garments come to life has been captivating. The gowns that she has produced have exceeded all expectations and I know how excited our Royal Family members are to show off their new attire on the big day.
“Launching the gowns with students at Pulteney Grammar School was a special moment for the Pageant team as the school is where the National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant Day begins for our many participants.
“The announcement reaffirmed that the event is back on the city’s streets and in the heart of our communities. I would like to also pay thanks to the staff and students at Pulteney Grammar for being so welcoming,” Mr Gilbertson added.
Vito Borrello, Chief Executive Officer, National Pharmacies, said Cristina’s gowns are perfect for the National Pharmacies Royal Family.
“Dunya, Hayley and Teagan will look every bit like royalty in their gowns on Pageant Day thanks to the exceptional work of Cristina Tridente and her team. Cristina has done an excellent job and I know our Royal Family have felt incredibly lucky for the opportunity,” said Mr Borrello.
Cristina Tridente has a successful track-record of producing stunning gowns for the National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant, having previously designed outfits for the 2020 Royals.
The couture+love+madness designer said it was a privilege to have played a role in such a high-profile year for the Pageant.
“The National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant Queen is a South Australian icon. With a long history, her dress had to respect the role that she has played for decades while also trying to elevate it to a new level for the 90th anniversary,” said Ms Tridente.
“The Princess dresses were designed to complement the Queen’s garment and pay homage to the prestigious, sought-after roles. It was a great to work on this exciting brief for a remarkable year in the event’s history.”
