Saturday night was a whirlwind of international splendor. First, I started the night off at the Concept Los Angeles Fashion Shows at Mack Sennet Studios. I was slated to see two shows, but was lucky enough to see three collections.
The first show was Emily Daccarett; her collection caused jaws to drop. There were panels of sheer fabric and lots of velvets and plaid in the green and blue varieties. There was also bits of lace and lots of appliqués. Beyond beautiful clothes, her show offered a fashion production. There was a film prior to the runway display, and a finale with scantily-clad men to accompany a white gown that didn't necessarily fit with the rest of the collection aesthetically, but still worked well.
And just as a bonus, Emily Daccarett is a member of the Daccarett family's Golden Valley Farm, so guests went home with miniature bottles of wine and delicious cheese along with a copy of the latest JIMON magazine; unconventional, yet much appreciated.
Between my first and second scheduled shows I had some down time, so I walked over to Stage 2 of the Mack Sennet Studios for the Sumie Tachibana presentation. Only moments later, Kat Von D walked in and seemed to really love the collection. And there was no surprise why; it was full of great fabrics, cuts and structure, a true representation of Tachibana's artistic talent.
Özgür Masur, a Turkish designer from Istanbul with an affinity for vivid colors and embellishments, was the last show I attended for the evening. Just like Daccarett's collection, there was lots of paneling, some sheer draping and beautiful fabrics. Every dress (slideshow) embodied a sophisticated, yet sexy woman.
Side note: I spent a weekend in Istanbul a few years ago, and I have always been captivated with the Turkish culture. Istanbul is one of the most beautiful places to visit, and there is such a warmth and beauty to their people and culture. This said, the Masur show was supported by the Turkish Republic Ministry of Culture & Tourism, Turkey, and Turkish Airlines, amongst a number of other Turkish brands, and was a part of the directive of Istanbul DESIGNERS, who hope to bring more Turkish designers to Los Angeles Fashion Week.
After the shows, I was taken to Mari Vanna on Melrose Place for the official Concept Los Angeles after-party, "Fashion With a Touch of Caviar." The Russian restaurant was as much of a place you would want to bring your great-grandmother as your chicest friend, a testament to the very Russian feel of both comfort and glamour. Guests were kept happy and full with a free flow of complimentary caviar and champagne, and wine for when the champagne ran out. Flavored vodka shots were unique for the night, representing a gastronomic explosion of tastes. The glamorous evening continued with more luxury as DJ to CHANEL and Porsche's official events, DJ Eva, flew in to Los Angeles to perform exclusively for Concept Los Angeles.
If this is what you call a traditional Russian party, count me in for the next one.