Los Angeles Fashion Week Fall I 2003: San Paredes
Designer Paul Magalad kicked off Los Angeles Fashion Week with a runway show for his San Paredes label on March 30 in Chinatown. The show featured a tight collection of artfully draped, gathered and tucked pieces. The designer showed a flair for drama with pieces that appeared conservative at first but then showed a provocative side. A cowl-neck top in blue sackcloth opened to a back that was bare except for a few straps of thickly twisted fabric. A raw-edge swing dress in bias-cut striped chiffon gathered back into an undulating vertical ruffle. And a patchwork- quilt skirt became a one-shoulder, asymmetrical poncho—with the print worn inside. The models in the show were all former Miss Chinatown winners, and they— and Magalad’s collection—were well-received by the enthusiastic crowd. A few looks—including a red strapless dress that was gathered and tucked into a modern bustle—prompted calls of “Lord, have mercy!” and “Damn!” from the guests. —Alison A. Nieder
