L.A. Fashion Weekend: Emerging Designers’ SS2012 Runway Show

On Saturday I was back at Sunset Gower for the Emerging Designers’ Runway Show. Since it had been a long week of shows and very little sleep I stopped by the Neuro booth for a shot of something that would wake me up. Neuro drinks are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and botanicals. There are 9 different types and each serves a specific function. One will enhance brain power, another curbs your appetite, there is also one for endurance, and one to help you sleep better. After a shot of Neuro Gasm I was ready for a glass of Moreno because champagne and fashion go hand in hand.

I love attending the shows at L.A. Fashion Weekend because the staff is friendly and accommodating and Mikey Koffman (creator and producer of LAFW) likes to ensure that guests at her events have a good time. So, in addition to a great reception there is usually some special surprise at the begging of each show. Today it was a performance by SuperStar Shyra. After the singer’s energetic two-song set we were ready for a little runway action.

Earlier I noticed a number of fashionable gals dressed in pretty lace dresses. Turns out they were showing their love for NathanaelleCouture. Created by European designer Nathanaelle Hottois the collection paired elegance with flattering silhouettes. Models looked glamorous in their oversized hats and various lace ensembles.  Nathanaelle started sewing at the age of twelve and for the Spring Summer 2012 Collection she was assisted by 7-year old Amira Haines. The two looked adorable in their matching outfits. 

The driving force behind Lawren Michele is an ambitious designer by the name of Lawren Michele Pope. At the age of 13 Lawren started a successful clothing company, Fuchsia, with classmate Veronica Scott and now she’s designing her own line. Her functional contemporary collection featured a variety of feminine pieces perfect for those warm summer days.  



Designer Kristi Moon creates eco-chic streetwear under the Age of Aquarius label. Her garments are made from sustainable, recycled, and organic textiles and low impact dyes are also used. Kristi’s collection ranged from casual loungewear to more sophisticated looks.  



C Nice’s contemporary collection combined simple, classic lines with fashion forward elements. The company takes great care in creating clothes that are comfortable and healthy for your skin. They also avoid the use of scratchy labels and chain stitching so their apparel doesn’t irritate your skin. The garments are made from beneficial fabrics such as organic cottons, eco-cashmere, bamboo blends, and low-impact dyed silks. 

Out on the red carpet I had spotted Nony (designer for PetroZillia). I’m guessing she was there to check out Tumbler and Tipsy because Michael’s designs are right up her alley. I had the pleasure of meeting designer Michael Kuluva in the reception lounge and not only is he talented but he is also super sweet. His unisex, eco-friendly ready to wear clothing is chic and modern and he creates hand-made one-of-a-kind pieces from reconstructed vintage fabrics and clothing. This was Tumbler and Tipsy’s first runway debut. The SS 2012 collection was flamboyant and fun – reminiscent of the Club Kids era. A number of ultra-luxe sequin garments graced the runway in addition to comfy jersey knits. This was definitely my favorite presentation of the day. I look forward to seeing more from Tumbler and Tipsy.



Today also happened to be Mikey’s birthday, so when the show was over she was presented with a birthday cake and a bottle of Moreno. After that we were all invited to Le Posh Salon for a little pampering, champagne, and hors d’oeuvres.

Narrative and photos by Nikki Neil

Dress by 2bRych, Purse by Inspired by Claire Jane