Saturday evening Gen Art made an impressive return with its Los Angeles Fashion Week event, Fresh Faces in Fashion. The much awaited show was hosted by our very own MyFDB co-founder, Zoe Saldana, and took place at the former cathedral of St. Vibiana in downtown L.A. Fresh Faces in Fashion presented by MyFDB and Moroccanoil featured 11 of L.A.’s top emerging designers. The event ranged in styles and genres and included womenswear, menswear, swimwear, and accessories.

Stephanie Lampkin’s line Odylyne captured a Boho chic vintage feel. The models came out in airy garments ranging from bright yellows, to pale blues, to white dresses with a pop of slightly hidden color. The looks were paired with detailed headpieces, and big hair.

One of my favorite looks by 71 Stanton

71 Stanton was a favorite of the night, designed by Ellis Yu and best described as California chic meets high-class sophistication. The play on fabrics gives the designs an extra edge pairing materials like jersey with silk chiffon creating a garment so versatile it could be worn to an afternoon brunch or a night on the town!

Cat eyes and pouty lips perfectly complete this 60's vibe style for Dear Creatures

Another MyFDB favorite was Dear Creatures. Designers Bianca Benitez and Rob Sinclair created a whimsical line that is truly timeless. The models were styled perfectly for the collection giving off a 60’s vibe with cat eyes and pouty lips.

Funktional’s name says it all: a funky take on wearable clothing. Los Angeles based designer, Jennifer Park, pairs modern style with high quality fabrics. The models completed the Funktional look with tribal inspired make up and headdresses.

Stand and Deliver takes the cake for having the most out of the box runway show. The rock n roll couture line created by Grammy nominated musician Corey Parks included an intense make out session, a fistfight, and even a skateboarder or two! Corey got her start by designing her own leather jackets while on tour and has since designed costumes for artists such as Rihanna, Marilyn Manson, and Ciara (talk about range!). The collection included a lot of black and a lot of leather (Rihanna’s S&M song comes to mind).

Stand and Deliver definitely delivered some punches that night!

The most artistic award of the evening goes out to Australian swimwear line, We Are Handsome, designed by Jeremy Jules Somer and Indhra Chagoury.  I don’t think I need to say much more because the designs speak for themselves.

A must have for all you “Team Jacob” fans ;) by We Are Handsome

Chambers Fall 2011 collection smells like Teen Spirit! Established in 2010 by Devin Carlson, Jake Denney, Matthew Goldman, and Jack Anderson III, Chambers is the epitome of 90s grunge. The models walked to a Nirvana soundtrack and sported styles full of flannel, varsity style jackets, and even had sweaters tied around their waists (if that doesn’t say 90s I don’t know what does!).

What is your favorite look from the show? For those of you who attended, what was your favorite experience?

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As the empress of bridal whose wedding gowns often overshadow her arty-intelectual ready-to-wear lines, Vera Wang reminded all that her whimsical designs go beyond the Kim Kardashian (who happened to be in attendance aside Beyonce) wedding, and err on the side of avant-garde. This season, Wang took us too the sphere of Alice and Wonderland where colors varied from monochrome brights to blacks and whites, modern silhouettes, and accents of transparency all juxtaposed for a “trippy” collection.

For anyone who has seen Alice in Wonderland, the resonant sound of ticking clocks which opened the show was certainly familiar. Eventually transitioning into a lull of sweet, but soft sounding music which echoed on the runway. The atmosphere was fit as the first look, a stark white super piqué sleeveless peplum coat and texturized silk slip, took to the runway. The following looks were equally unpigmented ethereal white until the psychedelic prints which would remain though-out the collection, came in different styles of chiffon. The color palate primarily consisted of yellow, mint, magenta, indigo, and even a smokey charcoal. Wang cited “18th century French wallpaper” as the musing behind the “distorted to abstract effect [...] and trippy counterpoint to the modernity of pure whites.” As for the designs shapes and intricate construction, Wang enlightened us of her “exploration of tailor and transparency- collages of texture and detail.”

Many of the silhouettes were characterized by different style of peplum trend, with eyelet corsets and drawstring belts adding a particular flounce each design. Different kinds of leggings, from gauzed material or simple stretch cotton, shorter hemlines, sculpted skirts, and hooded overlays, added to the contemporary aesthetic. Bringing the collection to an electrifying close were variations on the show-stopping high-low draped troupes and gowns, featuring trains of organza in what I will now refer to as the Alice in Wonderland-esque prints. Wang’s Spring vision is certainly characterized by the imagination and it will be interesting to see where her designs turn-up. However, I will venture to guess that former Secretary of State and front row attendee, Madeleine Albright, will not be donning any of the collection at The While House.

Lauren Valenti is founder of fashion and music website, TheVogueVibes.com , as well as a Contributing Editor to the MyFDBlog during fashion week

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Despite the absence of singer-turned-designer Gwen Stefani, who is currently in the studio recording the No Doubt’s new album,  the L.A.M.B Spring 2012 collection was still on lively display during New York Fashion Week. Opting for a presentation rather than her usual, larger than life and star-studded runway shows, the showcase was less exciting but allowed attendees a closer, more detailed look at the bold, colorful designs.

An interesting take on the typical presentation, models were proped up on elevated white platforms arranged in a circle, with violet neon lights streaming around the room. Stefani’s go-to guy on the one’s and two’s, DJ Jeremy Healy, curated the music for the presentation with a comprehensive mix of hip hop, reggae, and pop that was as vibrant as Stefani’s collection. A track that had the collection’s onlookers head bobbing was the heavy bass remix of  “Hold the Line” by Major Lazer, who happens to be the producer of No Doubt’s new LP.

This season, Stefani drew inspiration from three distinct themes, the “Rat Pack” group, Indian women of Maharaja, and the Mod vespa culture. Somehow, despite their typical clashing aesthetics, Stefani incorporated many details which kept the collection fluid, as she does for her own style of course. Many of the L.A.M.B signature styles were evident in the cargo-style jackets and pants, printed maxi-dresses, flared mini-skirts, and sexy jumpsuits. Similar to what we’ve seen in the past, bold patterns, candy-colored stripes, high-voltage hues, and black-and-white combinations dominated the color palate.

Completing the design’s ensembles were chunky platformed heels, tribal statement jewelry, and handbags which consisted of large travel totes and chic tiny clutches. Keeping in form, the beauty styles were as equally dynamic as the collection, with hair tied up in towering topknots and eyes shaded with jet black eyeliner.

While some might argue that her collections are predictable, or just an extension of her personal style, I would respectfully disagree and say that that’s what individuals look for in the L.A.M.B label. Despite musing from multi-cultural backgrounds for spring, Stefani’s designs complemented each other, made a statement, and remained utilitarian. In other words, it was a collection that was quintessentially Gwen.

Lauren Valenti is founder of fashion and music website, TheVogueVibes.com , as well as a Contributing Editor to the MyFDBlog during fashion week

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Celebrities on hand to celebrate the styles included Ashlee Simpson, who was seated between Katie Cassidy and Jessica Szohr, and sitting opposite to them was LeAnn Rimes. I’m sure the men in their lives will be thankful they came to this show. Simpson showed off a severely short new do, while country singer Rimes graciously smiled for photographers.

The tone of the collection overall felt futuristic as models walked the runway to earshot techno beats. I later found the designer was going for the “Golden Age of Americana.” Unless the “Americana” he’s talking about involves scantily clad models reflecting opulence and dominance? I’m not sure he’s on point with that one. Although, with all the headline making scandals, I suppose it could be true. Azria also had an architectural influence, which translated to his color palatte consisting of neutrals and blacks that were complimented by gold and metal accents. Major industrial hardware for some seriously smoking dresses! All of his fringed accents added a touch of playfulness along with sparking sexuality.

On the runway models Daga Ziober, Nimue Smit, Marike Le Roux, and Herieth Paul donned the sultry looks. Their slicked back up-do’s were created by hair stylist Neil Moodie for Bumble & bumble. All of the models had natural makeup looks and shinned on the runway’s lights thanks to makeup artist Lisa Butler from Temptu Pro.

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Taking a glitz and glamour approach, in true Kati Stern fashion, the Venexiana S/S 2012 was a parade of shimmering couture gowns set to the sounds of  anarchic punk and rock n’ roll. After former careers in music and architecture, Hungarian-born Stern launched Venexiana back in 2003, and since then has designed her breathtaking gowns which are inspired by music. Her show is always one of my favorites as the lethal combination of show-stopping evening-wear and vibrant runway tracks gets my sartorial blood flowing! This season, the  crowd rocked out during the finale walk to the Iggy Pop cover of the classic rock tune, “Louie, Louie”, made famous by The Kingsmen. Opening the show was half-a-minute’s worth of medievally royal music before a punk-rock song seized the airwaves and introduced the first look, a pink off the shoulder evening gown embellished with Swarovski crystals. The collection featured an astounding 71 looks which were predominantly glimmering-detail gowns and cocktail dresses.

While I could safely venture to say that just about every color of the rainbow made an appearance at one point or another in, it seems Stern was feeling bold hues such as blood red, burnt orange, bright fuschia, and most of all, scintillating golds! Details that were absolutely essential for her Spring designs were the Swarovski crystals, maticulous embroidery, sewn sequins, and flower detail. Stern’s architectural backround was evident in the structure of the gowns, which paraded down the runway, voluminously silhouetted. In addition to the designs, the 30′s and 40′s style beauty looks the models donned were absolutely stunning and complementary to Stern’s elegant designs. I was particularly fascinated with the retro-style up-dos which featured a sophisticated  cross between a braid and twisted bun.

Whether Venexiana unleashes your inner punk-rock cinderella, or might be too extravagant for your taste, it’s impossible not to fall in love with Stern’s rebellious spirit. While most designers opt for a quick wave and bow after their show’s finale, Stern took the full length of the runway by storm and made the show’s ending just as exciting as its commencement.

Lauren Valenti is founder of fashion and music website, TheVogueVibes.com , as well as a Contributing Editor to theMyFDBlog during fashion week

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The venue’s large open space was soon filled with fashion forward guests including Anna Dello Russo, Carine Roitfeld, the youthful Julia Restoin Roitfeld, and Franca Sozzani. Bloggers Bryan Boy and Susie Bubble were spotted and of course Rumi Neely wasn’t too far behind. A few minutes prior to the show’s commencement, Gerard Butler was escorted from backstage and the photogs (and females) went crazy.

Once the show commenced thunderous beats turned eyes to the catwalk where heavy metal metallics were all the rage. Arising from backstage silver metallics were taking over; the men’s and women’s looks we’re so bold they couldn’t be ignored. A plethora of silver metallic pieces were followed by pink and forest green reflecting garments. The detailing was a real stand out, as were the shoes which brought the metallic trend to the toes. Like shards of glass coming at you, each new ensemble was breathtaking and inspiring– which is exactly what the collection intended to do.

“As the world becomes increasingly complex, Diesel Black Gold’s new collection proposes light and reason. Fashion becomes utilitarian and optimistic. Instead of looking inward, it sets out to explore.” said the brand.

Models Erjona Ala, Karmen Pedaru, Maryna Linchuk, and Kate King were glistening in the metallic clothing. Their natural hair and makeup looks were done by industry dream team, makeup artist Pat McGrath and hair stylist extraordinaire Guido Paulo.

Thanks to Diesel, I’m ready to get my shine on!

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Rooftop parties are always a hit, especially during fashion week, and particularly when they involve chic attire. Flooding on to the roof of the Empire guests got intimate with designer Walter Baker’s new collection. Opting for a presentation, models towered above on pedestals for the showing. The designer is all about the details when it comes to his urban line, WALTER. Made with the city girl in mind, the clothing had immaculate detailing and playful accents that upgraded them from casual to edgy. “My clothes tend to attract uptown girls with a downtown sensibility” said Baker. You don’t have to be a good girl gone bad to rock the pieces either, some looks were simplistic, while others were much more daring.

Complimenting each ensemble were the makeup looks done by Ricardo Rojas Salon. Winged tipped eyeliner and coral lips really are the perfect summer beauty combo. Completing the ensemble were Michael Antonio shoes in nude and black hues.

It was a gorgeous out and we were excited to spot America’s Next Top Model alumna Jaslene Gonzales (above right) along with Real Housewives of New York‘s Alex & Simon van Kempen.

See more of the even in the photo gallery below.

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True Blood's Joe Manganiello next to Tyler Ellis, daughter of Perry Ellis

Once the house lights dimmed the audience adverted their eyes to the catwalk, where neutral hued pieces constructed from lightweight linen and cotton were center stage. The collection was relaxed and casual, but I was inspired to see how color blocking made its way onto some shirts. Everything was simultaneously modern and classy, yet sportswear chic at the same time.

The audience started howling once again when the models hit the stage sans shirts for the show’s finale. Earshot applause for both the clothing and the guys was all that could be heard. Post-show Manganiello didn’t pull an Anna Wintour and dart off, instead he was mobbed by females who wanted to sink their teeth into him.

While there were highlights before and at the close of the show, the garments continued to receive positive praise (and not just because of who was wearing them). Oh and if you’re wondering, the boys in the video are rockin’ the brand’s “desert floral trunk.”

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Gone are the dark shadows from last season’s collection as Christian Siriano’s Spring collection is all about the radiance of the sky at sunset. With smoldering shades of chartreuse, coral, and citrus, designs dripping in chiffon, organza, and tulle glided down the runway.

This season, Siriano left his usual showcase location at Lincoln Center, electing the beautiful Eyebeam Atelier of Chelsea to house his Spring show. The front row featured an interesting slew of celebrities including Creative Director of Marie Claire Nina Garcia, the soulful singer Corinne Bailey Rae, and Siriano’s former counselor at Project Runway Heidi Klum. The runway’s facade featured an illuminated wall of shabby bricks which complemented the collection’s hues superbly.

Delicate ready-to-wear jersey blazers, crepe skirts, and croc blazer designs transitioned into the dramatic evening-wear for which Siriano is best known for. Floating down the runway, tulle and “barnacle” applique dresses and silk organza gowns wowed the crowd. In terms of inspiration, Siriano cited Katherine Hepburn which only held true in my eyes for the first half of the collection. For a second season, the collection was styled by Danielle Nachmani, who also happens to be the stylist for Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen.

The show’s runway music, featuring the sounds of Juliana Hatfield, Tracy Bonham, and The Beautiful Bodies, was put together by Siriano’s beau, Brad Walsh. Although Siriano is known for his bubbly character, I though the pop-infused tracks weren’t a great complement to the elegant collection.

Notably featured in the show were Siriano’s footwear collection for Payless Gold. Some of my favorite styles which stomped the runway were the vampy lace-up bootie, salmon sculptural wedge boot, and of course the classic peep-toe pump. For his collection of his runway to reality designs, Siriano said ” For Spring 12′, my inspiration is exotic tropical underwater specimens found while traveling to Bali, Honduras, and Belize. I was inspired the underwater creatures- their origins and how they developed these textures and colors.” An inspiration which seemed to hold true for the garments as well, the footwear collection is sure to be a sensation for those looking for an affordable way to integrate Siriano’s Spring collection into their everyday wear!

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Lauren Valenti is founder of fashion and music website, TheVogueVibes.com , as well as a Contributing Editor to theMyFDBlog during fashion week

Claws out…Carlos Miele‘s “immersive landscape” collection for spring/summer 2012 is perfect for any mature well to do socialite who’s looking to holiday in St. Barts. Miele went for organic prints with a natural twist. There were vivid oranges and sea cliff hues, along with fluid black and white prints that evoked movement.

The gowns were crafted from silks and ciffon, which hung naturally against each model’s silhouette. If you’re really looking to bring out your inner cougar, the designer of course showed some flashier pieces accented by gold leather belts, which you can see in the finale video below.

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