LAFW SSI4: Fashion Splash

For some reason L.A. Fashion Week this season was a bit hectic, so it was nice to go someplace that felt like home – Sunset Gower Studios for L.A. Fashion Weekend. Upon arrival I was greeted by my favorite security guard at the gate and then by my other favorite security guard when I arrived at the tent.  L.A. Fashion Weekend celebrated its 10^th season at Sunset Gower this weekend and it was my 9^th in attendance.

A bevy of fashionable individuals mingled in the lounge area, which was hosted by Nobu Hotel. Some got their hair styled by Plant Salon and their make-up touched up by Geisha Studio. Others enjoyed wine from Moscato Allegro and Tin Roof Cellars and beer from Beck’s (Peace Tea, Monster Energy, and water were available for the non-drinkers). AMP Radio provided the rockin’ tunes and Bibby Financial donated $5 to City of Hope, for cancer research, every time someone made a hole in one on the putting green.

The reps from Rollasole were on site to demonstrate their vending machine, which dispenses their comfy, fashionable flats. Michael Kuluva designer for Tumbler and Tipsy collaborated with Rollasole and designed a bedazzled gold pair with a bow for the line.

Amazing Shine showed off their Blue Jeans Nail Kit that comes with rivets, buttons, studs, and gems to bedazzle your nails with. The kit also comes in black and has a denim like finish.  Also on display were false eyelashes in a rainbow of colors.  

I also had the pleasure of talking to the designer for Straitjacket Sam. (Love the name!) Rachael creates edgy, one-of-a-kind handcrafted leather neckties, skinny ties, handbags, statement earrings, and cuffs. She prefers to use leftover pieces of leather, which results in the raw edged look of her pieces.

Another great thing about L.A. Fashion Weekend is running into friends like:

Fashion Blogger Justin Howard and Actor Paulo Benedeti

Alan McCune and Enrique Godoy Ynzenga of Skinny Executives.

And my secret crush - Michael Kuluva (Tumbler and Tipsy).

The theme for tonight’s show was Fashion Splash hence the lineup of swimwear designers and the hunky lifeguards, who escorted Mikey Koffman on the runway as she introduced the Nobu Hotel Models. 

Salt kicked off the show with a stylish collection of swimwear designed by Layla Pakzad.

Stone Fox Swim presented a variety of beachwear looks designed by California Native Chelsea Bell. The pieces combined Cali beach culture with a rock n roll attitude and featured a variety of custom designed prints and colors.

Mi-Ola’s colorful sexy swimsuits were inspired by the tropics and designed with surf enthusiast in mind. Each suit is wave tested to ensure it stays put while you’re in the water.

Amour luxury Swimwear designer Connie Borja sent out a variety of sophisticated swimwear pieces that ranged from classic to athletic to flashy.

Mandalynn closed the show with a collection that was inspired by sun, fun, and travel. Designer Amanda Dukehart’s styles are meant to be mixed and matched and her signature pieces include the 3 strap Britt top and matching bottom as well as the vintage inspired Betty one piece with a plunging neckline. 

Narrative and photos by Nikki Neil