Natalie

Global glamour to glitz Logies
Luke Dennehy and Marcus Casey
May 5, 2007

IT may not match the size and glamour of the Oscars just yet, but the Logie Awards red carpet is growing in stature every year.

So much so, local stars are looking at internationally renowned labels such as Versace and Gucci to make an impact at television's night of nights tomorrow.

Silver Logie nominee and former Neighbours star Natalie Bassingthwaighte was yesterday dressed in a Versace Couture gown with Jan Logan jewellery for an exclusive preview shoot for The Saturday Daily Telegraph.

The Rogue Traders singer said the dress felt  "stunning", but is likely to wear Gucci tomorrow night.

"I try to go for something a bit different and try not to go for the norm," she said.

Local labels such as Alex Perry, Lisa Ho, Morrissey and Calibre will also be well represented on the red carpet.

Also trying out the pre-Logies fashion yesterday was another Natalie. But for many people, it may be a case of Natalie who?

The Logie Awards always generate a little controversy and this year the lightning rod has been the nomination of Natalie Blair for a Gold Logie.

She's a 23-year-old Neighbours cast member who won Most Popular New Female Talent in 2005, netting her a role on the long-running soap.

Even she was surprised when her name was among seven others on the Gold Logie nominee list compiled by TV Week readers.

There has since been a backlash on radio and in print – and it hurt.

"It's the No.1 cliche but I really wasn't expecting it," she said.

"A lot of people weren't expecting it so it baffled them and it also baffled me – but I guess it's very flattering.

"But it's the first time I've ever copped flak from people and there has been a lot of negativity around which isn't nice.

"You have to realise it's part of the job – people are criticised and I now realise I just can't take it personally.

"Anyway, my gut feeling is that Kate Ritchie will win."

The 48th Logies will be held at Crown Casino from 8pm tomorrow and will variously hosted by comedians Adam Hills, Dave Hughes and radio it-girl Fifi Box.