2009 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York
2009 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York
From the moment you walk into the tents at Bryant Park in New York City for Fashion Week, to the time the last bow takes place, excitement fills the air! Before the shows began, I had the opportunity to step back stage and speak with one of the top models in the Max Azria Show. She could not be happier, as she was one of the select few chosen for the show.
Moments before the show, everyone is mingling, talking and greeting celebrities; then “Boom”, the show starts and in seconds everyone is in their seats in anticipation of the first look at the new collections. Interesting, that after all the weeks of preparation, fittings, rehearsals, and casting, the show takes place in 12 minutes.
Max Azria’s luxurious fabrics, fluid movements, and signature design aesthetic have made the collection a favorite among style-setters such as Angelina Jolie, Kate Beckinsale, Rachel Bilson, and many others. Organza, voile, crepe de chine and taffeta, along with mink, sable, broadtail, and chinchilla are all used in the most delicate way. His collection also includes a complete line of ready-to-wear and accessories.
Dennis Basso at the 2009 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week
High Fashion Furrier
Glamourous, sexy and chic describe this outstanding 2010 collection of Dennis Basso. Several stars were seen in the audience. Nicky Hilton, Joan Rivers, Denise Rich, Ivana Trump, Mickey Rourke, and. Brooke Shields. Dennis is considered a lifestyle. His pizazz and charisma set him apart from the rest.
Not all shows were in the tents.
BETSY JOHNSON’s show looked like a Broadway production. She showed in the famous “Plaza Hotel” center stage smack in the middle of the Palm Court restaurant. Her whimsical and colorful line dressed up the entire Hotel lobby. Betsey jumped up on stage with her rock group and entertained the viewers as she danced and flirted with everyone. She is an amazing woman, full of high powered energy and pizazz, not to mention her line that is filled with fantasy!
At the end of the evening, a different type of show took place in the middle of the meatpacking district.
MARIA PINTO had one of the most interesting shows of all. She did not use a runway; rather, her presentation was not in a huge space and her models hardly moved. They stood very still, almost mannequin-like, so everyone could take a long look. So many times the models walk by so fast, you do not get a chance to really see the garment. This was a very cool atmosphere, with a very upscale crowd. It was more like an informal, formal cocktail party with supermodels, dressed to kill, but just standing there. Fascinating to watch! Maria’s collection artfully crafts a tango of fabrications that include spiral chiffons, whisper-soft leathers, stretch wools, and a new price-conscious shirred jersey series that incorporates rich textures with intricate designs. Maria came out and stood with her models for photo opportunities and mingled with all her guests. She is a lovely woman with very enduring quality. One of the famous women who wear Maria’s collections is Michelle Obama. Maria is based in Chicago and has a very loyal following. Congratulations Maria Pinto, you’ve earned it!
Ashleigh Verrier / Verrier Designs.
While in New York for Fashion Week, I had a chance to visit with a delightful up-and-coming designer in her studio, Ashleigh Verrier of Verrier Designs.
Please enjoy the video of that visit.
