Fashion Week: Los Angeles

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March 20, 2008

Sue Wong's stunning soiree

Sue Wong sure knows how to throw a party. The L.A. designer, known for creating beaded, romantic, eveningwear for a glamorous Hollywood clientèle, outdid herself with a magnificent Great Gastby-esque soirée at her mansion last weekend. Guests were handed bejeweled masks and encouraged to soak up the utter fabulousness of her palatial 10,000 square foot estate, The Cedars (aka The Norma Talmadge Estate). Built in 1926 by film director Marcel Tourner ("A Doll’s House", "Last of the Mohicans", "Lorna Doone") and named after silent screen goddess Norma Talmadge, the property has hosted many icons of our time, from Talmadge herself to Errol Flynn, Jimi Hendrix, Lou Reed, Dennis Hopper and Johnny Depp.
Wong spent three years restoring the property before opening it up for the first time at last week's exclusive shindig. Wong, who lives by the mantra "beauty, magic, transformation", remained true to the original spirit and beauty of the property, choosing dark wood oriental furnishings, custom-designed upholstery and antiques from France, Spain, Italy and Morocco with which to fill her sumptuous home. Her models struck dramatic poses in strategic spots among the gilded columns, sculpted fireplaces and frescoed archways of the house, wearing gowns from her Fall '08 collection, while Sue Wong herself mingled with her guests, who included "Project Runway" alum Nick Verreos, Adrienne Curry of "My Fair Brady" fame (pictured, with Wong) and Alexandra Breckenridge ("D.E.B.S.", "Dirt", also pictured).
I found myself quite at home in one of the bedrooms, lounging on an enormous Moroccan antique bed covered with satin pillows and wondering when the opium was going to be served...
You can buy Sue Wong's designs at Neiman-Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale’s.
(Photos courtesy of Marsaili McGrath/Elevation Photos)

March 20, 2008 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (2)

APOTHIA AROMATICS: the smell of success

At L.A. Fashion Week you could literally smell the glamour in the air—thanks to the APOTHIA AROMATICS candles that were quietly burning away within the tents. Named "Interior Fragrance of the Year" by the Fragrance Foundation, the collection (which includes scents with alluring names like "Velvet Rope", "Juiced", "Scene" and "Bronze") is meant to evoke the essence of life in L.A. So throughout the five days of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios, an assortment of APOTHIA AROMATICS' 11 interior scents were placed in the main lobby, the VIP green rooms and the press check-in area, infusing a gentle and calming aroma into the adrenaline-filled air.
APOTHIA AROMATICS is the fragrance, candle and home diffuser collection released by APOTHIA, the high-end luxury beauty and lifestyle boutique at Fred Segal Melrose. You can buy at APOTHIA at Fred Segal Melrose, and at fine department stores and specialty boutiques in the U.S. and U.K.

March 20, 2008 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 17, 2008

America's most stylish mayor?

In New York, Hillary almost posed for Vogue (she backed out, last minute).
In Paris, president Nicolas Sarkozy shacked up with a supermodel.
And in L.A., Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is blazing a fashion trail, establishing himself as the most stylish politico the city has ever seen.
But don't expect the crush-worthy Villaraigosa, who loves runway shows and took the podium at last year's L.A. Fashion Awards, to ditch his somber councilman's suits any time soon. Rather, you should think of him as LA's Fashion Enabler, a closeted hipster who gladly opened up his backyard to fashionistas last week for a cocktail party and celebration of eco-style. The invitation-only FutureFashion L.A. event (hosted by Designers & Agents, the CFDA and Earth Pledge) was held on the sprawling lawn of Getty House, the mock Tudor mansion that is the official residence of the Mayor of Los Angeles.
 Surrounding a small pond at the back of the lawn were a dozen or so eco-designs by mainly local designers, including Magda Berliner, Trina Turk, Trovata, and Bahar Shahpar. Each designer had created their piece using various eco-fabrics given to them by Earth Pledge, an organization that helps designers and manufacturers transition to sustainable fabrics.
 My favorite garment was this huge bell-sleeved caftan by VPL (pictured), made from organic wool jersey and organic cotton indigo denim.
 Hob-nobbers included David Hiller, L.A. Times publisher, and all the usual L.A. fashion suspects. I saw Rose Apodaca, who wrote most of the L.A. Times' magazine's Spring fashion issue. Davis Factor, the Max Factor heir who runs Smashbox studios with his brother. Trina Turk and her extremely tall husband. My friend, the fashion designer Rachel Pally. And the mayor's two fashion-crazy daughters, including Prisila Villar (pictured),  who is studying at FIT in New York. The mayor's girls are, it turns out, his secret fashion weapon, and it was on their encouragement that the entire event took place.
 Oddly, there was no sign of Linda Loudermilk, one of L.A.'s best-known eco-designers. Also absent was Diane Von Furstenberg, president of the CFDA.
But I did meet a man who looked like pirate.
 Are you in fashion? I asked the man, who, it turns out, is the fabulous Russian painter Alexey Steele (pictured).
"Actually, I'm in anti-fashion," he said, snickering. "I paint nudes."

March 17, 2008 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 13, 2008

Anna Maria Perez de Tagle: longest name, cutest style

(I can't believe I am featuring a "Hannah Montana" star on The Stylephile, but here goes.)
Not only does Anna Maria Perez de Tagle have the longest name in Hollywood, she was also born in 1990. (Seriously. Do you know anyone who was literally, not metaphysically or spiritually, born in the nineties?)
Being born in 1990 means you get a special fashion pass that allows you to do whatever you want and still look adorable, as displayed by Anna Maria Perez de Tagle at L.A. Fashion Week. Here she is, in high-waisted mommy jeans, flouncy grape blouse and a rainbow growing out of her face. Love it.

March 13, 2008 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (2)

March 11, 2008

Bowled over

You may remember Cameron Richardson from her classic role in last year's Alvin and the Chipmunks. Or like us, you may prefer to think of her like this, sporting a traditional bowler hat (the eternal emblem of sassy chic) at L.A. Fashion Week.
Also known as the derby hat, the bowler was originally designed by London hatters James and George Lock of Mr. Lock of St. James Street (established 1676) as an alternative to the top hat. You can still order bowlers on their website.
Since then, the hat has been adopted by several icons of our time—Charlie Chaplin, Hercule Poirot, Winston Churchill and Duckie in "Pretty in Pink. And let's not forget those friendly fellows from "A Clockwork Orange".
More recently, we've seen more and more young style avatars make like Magritte, including Sienna Miller, Keira Knightly (in those Coco Mademoiselle ads) and of course, the lovely Cameron Richardson.
I always knew those Bolivian street vendor ladies were on to something.

 

March 11, 2008 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (1)

March 6, 2008

Jared Gold's L.A. fashion show is open to all

Jared Gold has a distinctly fresh approach to his fashion shows, much more democratic than that of his snootier contemporaries. As far as he's concerned, anyone with an interest in fashion should be able to enjoy the runway spectacles he's known for putting on, not just so-called VIPs. So, it makes sense that his 'Czarina' show on Friday March 14 (one of the last events of Fashion Week), will be open to the public.
He is building a 190-foot catwalk inside Downtown's Union Station (800 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA) for a catwalk extravaganza expected to draw 1500 of his fans. Expect a young and very enthusiastic crowd, and some dayglo hair colors. The event is free.
"We’re turning the whole idea of a fashion show on its head," said Gold. "Normally, there are press and celebrities at these events—but they’re not who buy my clothes. Why not let those people in and let them see the entire line and give them a great place to shop?” He will show more than 50 looks, many of which will be available to buy immediately at a pop-up shop, on-site at Union Station.
Downtown art band Miss Derringer, led by my good friend the artist and singer Liz McGrath, will play a set. Gold's favorite internet starlets Stevie Ryan, Raquel Reed and Audrey Kitching as well as “Dexter” star Jennifer Carpenter will walk the catwalk.
Free tickets are available to the public at www.blackchandelier.com 

March 6, 2008 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Gen Art kicks off L.A. Fashion week tomorrow...wanna go?

When it comes to giving fresh new talent a helping hand, the folks behind Gen Art are the masters, handpicking young designers and giving them exposure they deserve. Gen Art has been launching careers for more than ten years now, (Louis Verdad, Zac Posen and Michelle Mason are all Gen Art alumni), and tomorrow, they kick off L.A. Fashion Week with an installation show by three exciting new fashion designers as part of their “New Guarde” event, Friday March 7 at 7PM.
And here’s the best part—you can be there!
JMARY, Jesse Kamm, and Le Sang des Betes by Trang Chau are the talented threesome being showcased. They may be “emerging” but each has already built a following. JMary has been creating custom pieces for Maxfield for some time, and counts Winona Ryder, Dita Von Teese and Karl Lagerfeld among her fans.
Le Sang des Betes by Trang Chau (pictured) has a grisly name (“the blood of beasts”) but the designer uses only natural fabrics, mainly cotton and wool, in designs inspired by the vaulted ceilings of Gothic cathedrals. Jesse Kamm, whose signature hand-printed textiles have been showcased in Elle, Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, and Paper magazines, is a favorite of Liz Goldwyn, Ellen Pompeo, and Kazu of New York art band Blonde Redhead.
Their designs will be shown on models in large-scale vignettes from 8-10pm, conceptualized by each designer and produced by set designer Keith Greco. Then, there’s an after-party celebrating all things fresh and new!
So if you're in L.A., go to this show, and meet the fashion faces of tomorrow.
The presentation is at the Park Plaza Hotel (607 S Park View St., between Rampart and Alvarado St). VIP Tickets are $90/ person and $75 for Gen Art Members and include early entry to the show pre-reception and access to all VIP areas. General Admission Tickets are $50 / person and $40 for Gen Art Members. Gen Art LA Associate Producer Members receive two free VIP tickets and Gen Art Platinum Members received two free General tickets.  Tickets can be purchased by calling (323)782-9389 or by visiting www.genart.org.

March 6, 2008 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 16, 2007

Jaime Pressly Hits the Catwalk

 
"My Name is Earl" star Jaime Pressly celebrated the launch of her Spring/Summer 2008 collection from her line J'aime Monday night at Blvd. 3 in Hollywood. The lively bash featured a fashion show highlighting the season's new designs as well as famous faces like her "Earl" co-stars Jason Lee, Eddie Steeples and Ethan Suplee. Pressly describes her latest looks to Stylephile as, "a wide variety of high end fabrics as well as a new tailored look that can be dressed up and dressed down." (M. McNiece)

October 16, 2007 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 25, 2007

Mommy Dearest

Artists derive inspiration from nature and nurture, at least in the case of Rami Kashou. The designer's fall 07 collection "A Concerto for Angele"-which showed on Wednesday at Smashbox-is named for and inspired by his perennially well-dressed late mother. The live model installation was heavy with silk fabrications, ruched bodices and dramatically draped skirts in autumn greens, mustards, purples and rusts. Shorter numbers in metallic silver and strapless corseted pieces contrasted with the flowing gowns. As usual, nature and nurture are the ultimate juxtaposition. Ramikashou.com

March 25, 2007 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kids in the Hall

Upon arrival at Kevan Hall's show at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Thursday night, attendees (including Hayden Panettiere and Vondie Curtis-Hall) had no idea they'd be hopping a flight to Paris. The designer took everyone on an "Urban Jet-Set" tour of the wild blue yonder with pieces for the glamorous traveler. After a recorded pre-flight welcome in French, Italian and English and a reminder to bring seats to an upright and locked position, the show began with a striking wool jumpsuit. Current trends like asymmetrical necklines and bustier topped gowns pervaded, but most impressive were vintage-style "diamante" shirt-dresses with unapologetic collars and sparkling flecks that twinkled like stars. Herringbone suits and coats with metallic thread woven through out also hit big, along with luxe fur pieces (controversial, we know) like a grey plunge neckline chiffon gown with chinchilla cap sleeves. Whether in L.A. or Paris, top pieces from Kevan Hall's fall 07 collection are sure to take off. Fasten your seat belt. Kevanhalldesigns.com

March 25, 2007 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 21, 2007

Oh My Goth!

Bones strewn on a runway. Models with licorice-shaded lips wearing black hooded capes. Welcome to the Imitation of Christ show, which took place on Monday night at Smashbox. Pixie designer and local heroine Tara Subkoff sent out a collection during fashion week that never varied from a dour palette of black, cream, and weak tea-hued neutral. The highlights—and most wearable pieces—were a set of black leather and black satin trench coats, beaded shifts (think Lulu Brooks on parole) and spangled tops. What struck me was that these models looked like the type of girls in high school who would borrow your prized blush and keep it. The fact that they were checking their cell phones on the runway seemed like a nod to invasive technology and Paris Hilton’s poor manners until I realized that Samsung sponsored the after-party. The smart takeaway for front row denizens? A bag of Smashbox products used in the show, including black eyeliner, black mascara, and Enchanting lipstick in “Yo! Can I borrow your blush?” plum. For a peek at the five best lipstick colors for spring, go to TheStylephile.com.

March 21, 2007 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 19, 2007

Fall Forward

Summer hasn’t even officially hit, but autumn style abounds thanks to L.A. Fashion Week. Internationally chic boutique Malgosia—which stands out from the Third Street norm—is hosting a Moet & Chandon champagne fall preview today from noon until 7p.m. Unique lines include Miriam Ocariz (pictured here), Nanushka, Raasta from Spain, Fly Now from Thailand and hand-crocheted silk, cotton and bamboo from Louis Vuitton veteran Risto Bimbiloski. Head into Malgosia and get a style step ahead of the whole world. Who are your favorite International designers? Fill us in on the Stylephile! $200-$1,300, RSVP: (310) 858-2224, Malgosia, 8336 W. Third St., (323) 782-9188

March 19, 2007 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Extreme Makeover

It may be ironic for a woman who makes her living naked to be a staple during L.A. Fashion Week, but porn star Jenna Jameson is everywhere. Maybe she’s weary of dressing like the misunderstood, overdeveloped Barbie doll who ran away from the Malibu townhouse? The week of haute hijinx has only just begun and already, Jameson has been spotted at a bevy of high profile shows including Eduardo Lucero, Jared Gold and Corey Lynn Calter. Even more intriguing? She looks remarkably sweet and almost demure with her asymmetrical bob and subtle make up. (Keeping those ever-on-parade DDs under wraps doesn’t hurt either.) For updates on the goings on around town -- including a look at the designers influencing local style and need-to-know trends for fall -- tune into the TheStylephile.com all week.

March 19, 2007 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

In Fashion

As any good Top Model viewer knows, catwalks come in many forms. Friday’s Gen Art New Garde event in Hollywood officially kicked off L.A. Fashion Week with a trio of designer installations sans traditional runways. Fashion world folks (under the watchful eye of newly appointed Gen Art fashion director Lee Trimble) sipped Absolut Pear and ginger ale cocktails (also a new wave?) and watched as designer Hazel Brown’s set -- resembling a turn-of-the-century boarding house -- came alive. Models pantomimed menial tasks, while clad in beautiful, chicly austere black dresses. The whole scene danced with eerie light projections of rustling leaves, which seemed to fall in from an invisible window. Alm’s models walked the periphery of an enormous angular white pillar, brightly lit to highlight the line’s futuristic vibe. Standout pieces juxtaposed new and old, like a blouse with an asymmetrical striped pattern á la an ammo belt and high Victorian buttoned collar. Crimson and blush-colored velvets with Edwardian-style collars characterized Mintee’s line. (See Gen Art designers pictured here.) This year at least three separate Fashion extravaganzas -- at Smashbox, the Standard and the Los Angeles Theater -- are happening simultaneously. Apparently the New Garde is coming out strong. For More Information: genart.org, fashionweekla.com

March 19, 2007 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 26, 2006

A+O Gratis Pedi (L.A.)

Shoppers may want to hold off on the cocktails and Sprinkles cupcakes until post-purchase at Alice + Olivia's "Pants & Pedicures" event July 29. Beginning at 1p.m., the recently minted Robertson store will offer gratis pedicures from Hands On with sweet treats for the imbibing and nibbling from 3p.m.-7p.m. The fall collection has arrived in-store, so prepare with cool thoughts just in case the temperate forecast fails and you have to beat the heat. rsvp@aliceandolivia.com or (310) 247-0120; 134 S. Robertson Blvd.

July 26, 2006 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 23, 2006

Fashion Week Dispatch: Louis Verdad (L.A.)

Known for his '40s- and '50s-inspired glam dresses and suiting, Louis Verdad has fashion crowds dishing about his fall '06 collection, which showed the first night of fashion week at Smashbox Studios. The big reveal? An undeniable edginess combined with his ultra-feminine silhouettes. Punkish black suits and skinny ties opened the show. Hounds tooth blazers and coats paired with plaid skirts followed, often accessorized with big patent leather belts and long envelope clutches. Patent leather insets also made a big appearance on outerwear and even on evening dresses. Rykiel-esqe cashmere and wool sweaters in ivory or dewy gray were made gorgeous with delicate ruffles outlining the shoulders. Verdad calls the departure organic, but also speaks to audience expectations: "I wanted to show that L.A. designers are trendsetters too," he says. "I think people were ready to see a departure from me." What to expect next? "Intricate jersey work—pleats, tucks, beautiful lines." louisverdad.com

March 23, 2006 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (1)

Fashion Week Dispatch: Juan Carlos Obando (L.A.)

Last season Juan Carlos Obando counted Gabriel Garcia Marquez's "100 Years of Solitude" as his inspiration. This season, the designer noted three influences—contemporary artist Matthew Barney, sci-fi writer Phillip K. Dick and music video director Chris Cunningham. For Obando, narrative is key to his process. "Clothes are clothes," he says. "The only difference between a $10 t-shirt and a $100 t-shirt is the story that comes with it." In that case, Obando shows he has stories to spare, his latest collection even more impressive than his last. Realized and well-edited in a basic palette of black, gun metal, silver, red and ivory, Obando wowed with hand-pleated dresses in crushed georgette with wide wool-leather belts; a handful of lush cropped wool-cashmere jackets with oversized lapels; body-skimming wool cashmere jersey dresses with sashes that wrap around and around to create an obi effect; plus expert accessorizing — Obando designs everything — from fierce knee-high boots to red goat skin gloves. jcobando.com

March 23, 2006 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fashion Week Dispatch: Corey Lynn Calter (L.A.)

If you have some leggings and a pair of wellies, you've got a head start in achieving Corey Lynn Calter's layered mix-and-match look for fall. Additional under outfit staples included opaque tights and legwarmers worn long and lean (not '80s scrunched). A floaty polka dot blouse was shown beneath a handkerchief dress in a voodoo print. Long-sleeved fitted jersey was worn under a strapless chocolate ruched and laced dress. Dresses were doubled up, necessarily placed under delicately embellished sheer dresses. "It's always about mixing prints and colors for me," says Calter. "I think it's very practical and a great way for people to express themselves when there are a lot of uniforms out there that aren't very interesting." The designer, who took a couple seasons hiatus from the runway, returned with her signature wearability and always pretty bohemian touches. coreylynncalter.com

March 23, 2006 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 21, 2005

Fashion Week Dispatch: Louis Verdad (L.A.)

Although Louis Verdad claimed Frida Kahlo as a muse for his fall collection shown on Sunday (a rousing finale to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week), the designer didnt stray too far from his signature 40s silhouette and menswear-inspired suiting. Kahlos vividly colored aesthetic was evident in a satiny, turquoise, tunic-like top and a rich, burgundy dress with sheer ruffled layers (not to mention the models bold, defined makeup), but they were balanced by wool pants and tweed jackets in light charcoals and chocolates. Rachel Griffiths, Anna Wintour, Garcelle Beauvais and L.A.s fash pack crowded the front row to support one of the citys designing darlings. And by the time the last model sashayed down the runway, even the usually poker-faced Wintour couldnt help but grin.

March 21, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fashion Week Dispatch: Michelle Mason (L.A.)

There was still one day of shows left, but Michelle Mason unofficially claimed closing night festivities to fashion week Saturday night with a bash after her runway presentation. Vince Vaughn, Roselyn Sanchez and Paris Hilton (who, as always, appeared surgically attached to her cell phone), as well as L.A. fashion week pioneers IMG's Fern Mallis and Smashbox's Factor brothers, all showed up at the BevHilton, where sponsor Gran Centenario poured endless cocktails and guests left with a beautiful geometric-print scarf made exclusively for Mason by the hotel. Earlier in the day, the designer sent out a collection for her bridge line, Mason, that was so refined show-goers wondered if it was for her signature label. Highlights included a deep violet handkerchief dress worthy of any starlet, and a bright blue tie-neck blouse under a gray suit with knickers.

March 21, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fashion Week Dispatch: Jenni Kayne (L.A.)

Kayne's fall collection belied her young years (she's in her early 20s) and delivered the most celeb wattage at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios yet. With Ione Skye, Carolyn Murphy and Jewel in the front row Friday night, models sashayed down the runway in Kayne's contrast of Victorian-style velvet blazers and military jackets paired with '20s-era, boudoir-ish silk skirts and cropped, loose pants. The most daring aspect of the collection was the palette of navy and black (a combination usually considered a fashion no-no), chocolate, cream and purple. Bead-encrusted flowing skirts, tops and a floor-length dress are sure to sparkle on the red carpet.

March 21, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fashion Week Dispatch: Grey Ant (L.A.)

Grant Jarecki knows how to put on a show. First, he had drag-queen impersonators (Cher, Divine, Michael Jackson) in the front row. Then he broke up his show into three segments with a skit homage to teen horror flicks, Solid Gold dancers and ghetto hoochies from an '80s-era rap video gyrating in guests' faces. And the clothes were actually as fun and wearable, especially the high-waisted light and dark jeans (more authentically vintage than the famous Chloes of a few seasons back), '80s-style sweatshirt minidresses and groovy, roller-boogie leggings with swirls of metallic fabric. Get out the skates!

March 21, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 19, 2005

Fashion Week Dispatch: Carlos Rosario (L.A.)

There's a new fashion force in L.A. and his name is Carlos Rosario. Who else could boast having Vogue ed-in-chief Anna Wintour (who's in town for Sunday's Rodeo Drive Walk of Style event) in the front row of his very first showing at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week? Rosario gave fashion purveyors something to talk about Friday afternoon, with sharply-tailored suits, some with exposed darts, others with English riding coat-like tails. There were lots of asymmetric wool sweater dresses, slinky silk gowns straight out of The Matrix, and a few smart sheaths, one beaded in a pattern of women's faces, and another simple, cream-colored silk dress with red spirals and folded cap sleeves, perfect for a premiere. Stay tuned for more ...

March 19, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fashion Week Dispatch: FIDM's Emerging Artists (L.A.)

Though FIDM's Emerging Artists show lacked star power (OK, a buffed and brash Jaime Pressly did traipse the catwalk in friend Jenny Pyle's skimpy, paint-splattered bathing-suit looks), it was heavy on adept designs worthy of up-and-comers. The majority of looks were professional and diverse, from the pretty, Oscar de la Renta-like full skirt with graphic cutout detail by Emily Francisco, to Dena Burton's bold faux-fur, cowl-neck poncho recalling a sophisticated Julie Christie in "Dr. Zhivago." If nothing else, the show was a fine barometer of L.A.'s potential talent pool -- now if only they could find financial angels like P. Diddy (who's investing in Zac Posen).

March 19, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fashion Week Dispatch: Juan Carlos Obando (L.A.)

It was at times derivative of Tom Ford-era Gucci and the Proenza Schouler boys, but Juan Carlos Obando delivered some of the slickest, sexiest legging-style pants made out of stretch silk, some of which featured ties around the ankles. Other winners were the empire-waist, belted swing coats in cream, chocolate and hunter green canvas, and a silky, ruched, long-sleeved halter blouse with piping detail. Very sssexy.

March 19, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fashion Week Dispatch: Magda Berliner (L.A.)

Berliner stuck to what she does best: reworking and mixing vintage lace -- Victorian, doily, eyelet, etc. -- with disparate materials such as chain maille and deer hide to create haunting, though delicate, dresses. Standouts included a long vest made from what appeared to be a South American blanket and a cream-colored leather jacket over a slip of a beaded, Deco-like dress.

March 19, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 18, 2005

Fashion Week Dispatch: Pegah Anvarian (L.A.)

Buzzworthy designer Pegah Anvarian injected a good dose of sexy to the first day of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios Wednesday night. L.A.s fashionable crowd were treated to a barrage of her reliably slinky looks for fall, like cashmere-jersey draped dresses, this time with Rami Kashou-esque braided flourishes. But they also saw sharply cut, tailored pieces, including a sleeveless houndstooth trench-style coat and cuffed menswear-inspired tweed pants. Anvarian said she was inspired by New York in wintertime, and it showed in her palette of soft plum, gray, cream and classic black. Starlets like Claire Forlani, who was in the front row will love the mini Grecian-style dresses that Natalie Portman made so current at the Oscars. Stay tuned for more ...

March 18, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 16, 2005

Fashion Week Dispatch: Pret a PSP (L.A.)

Sonys entry into L.A. fashion week, Monday's "Pret a PSP" show for the much-anticipated PlayStation Portable, drew a motley crew of guests and a very honest Michael Vartan: "Apparently if you come to these events and you're lucky enough to be on television, you get a PlayStation Portable for free." Okay, so he wasnt there to see PSP accessories like Marc Jacobs leather clutches or Diane von Furstenbergs leopard-print bags. But he and other goers -- including Courteney Cox, Jessica Alba, the Duff sisters and Paul Rudd -- got something else for free that they werent expecting. Bijou Phillips, modeling for the night, experienced an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction, revealing boobage to all. Follow that with supermodel Alek Wek's ugly tumble, and youve got one heck (or wreck?) of a show. Hopefully the Mercedes-Benz at Smashbox shows will be just as entertaining. Stay tuned for more ...

March 16, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 14, 2005

L.A. Takes Fashions Center Stage

The amorphous event known as fashion week in L.A. kicks off this week with Gen Arts "The New Garde" presentation, featuring three breakout designers; a two-night series of indie shows at the PDC; and a quasi-fashion event showcasing accessories for the new PlayStation Portable (though this easily has the best designer names attached, with contributions from Marc Jacobs and Diane von Furstenberg, among others). But the main event, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios, doesnt start until Wednesday, with a curious blackout of shows on Thursday night. Hmmm ... could it be because a certain MJ is throwing a party for the opening of his new boutiques that evening? Check back often to find out which (if any) A-listers will show and which C-listers will try to nab their front-row seats ...

March 14, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 28, 2005

Suites, Smashbox and Fashion (L.A.)

Visitors of Oscar suites, think youve seen the last of swag rooms in L.A.? Think again. The game plan has been announced for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios, running March 16-20, and it includes a handful of designers like Anouk and Mighty Fine's Disney Couture setting up camp at the BevHilton. But thatll just be a side event to the main attraction at Smashbox, which will feature shows by Michelle Mason, Grey Ant, Petro Zillia and more. Updates to come ... Check mbfashionweek.com for complete listings

February 28, 2005 in FASHION WEEK: LOS ANGELES | Permalink | Comments (0)

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