The Los Angeles Fashion Week is not similar to New York Fashion Week when it comes to organization and selection of shows, but Los Angeles provided some excellent shows.Los Angeles have a growing fashion scene with some fantastic designers, the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) and also the thriving downtown California Mart downtown with model showrooms to compete NY's Garment District.
Individual designers placed had their shows at private locations (Sue Wong, Lauren Elaine) and collective categories of young designers came together to put on shows (Concept at the Art Deco Ace Gallery featuring Thai Nguyen, Jen Awad, Project Runway's Directives and Mila Hermanovski). Briefly, here is a round-up of some LA Fashion Week highlights.
Jen Awad put on an extremely intriguing, notable and 60's looking show at Concept. There were lots of min-skirts, lace up tops, bows, and models sporting make-up and hair style similar to Brigitte Bardot the 60's icon. The show was a real departure from the full skirts and romantic looks from the last collection from Jen. Jen Awad's Fall 2011 collection offered casual looks, but also several gowns worthy of the Hollywood Red Carpet. After Jen Awad, was designer Thai Nguyen showcasing a collection of full length gowns and cocktails dresses. People really liked the attractive flowing gowns he offered.
Also it featured at Concept were Mila Hermanovski Project Runway's collection of used Cashmere sweaters as well as tunics with geometric shape. The tiny collection reminds the work of Nicole Miller's. Each of Mila's creations is unique because of the reused materials she works together with. No piece may be like any other. Her collection is beautiful as well as sustainable. Mila (Brave New Frock) has been dealing with Costume Designer Colleen Atwood and helped style Helena Bonham Carter's recent Oscar gown. It is excellent to see her talent in design continuing post Project Runway.
Other highlights of LA Fashion week were shows by environmentally aware Boho-chic label Gypsy05 with casually comfy Alternative Apparel. Overall, LA Fashion Week was much improved that showcased the fashion talent.
