Karen Kane, Tadashi Reap Awards in Dallas
Karen Kane and Tadashi were among the Los Angeles–based labels that were recognized during the 31st Annual Dallas Fashion Awards, held Oct. 30 at the Dallas Trade Mart, located on the Dallas Market Center campus.
About 700 guests attended the event, which was a record turnout, said Dallas Market Center officials. Actress and singer Vanessa Williams presented Carmen Marc Valvo with the Fashion Excellence Award. Former Neiman Marcus Fashion Director Joan Kaner received the Personal Style Award from Neiman’s Ann Stordahl and Karen Katz. Tadashi received an award for best After 5 collection while Karen Kane received the best modern wear line award.
Company president Lonnie Kane was on hand to receive the award from the Dallas Market Center’s Bill Winsor and Cindy Morris. “We were thrilled. The Dallas award gives you a true indication about what specialty stores like to buy and how the consumers respond. We had a very good year,” he said. Tadashi Shoji was also gracious in receiving his award. “This is our third nomination and we finally won, so we are very happy,” he said.
Other category winners included: Sondra Roberts (accessories), Luisa Cerano (bridge/designer), Free People (casual contemporary), Haven Girl (children’s), Otazu (jewelry) and Vivienne Tam (contemporary).
Valvo’s 2007 Spring collection was presented on the runway during the gala.
Another runway presentation featured Arizona Jean Co. denim jackets donated by JC Penney and customized by Dallas Fashion Awards finalists. The jackets will be auctioned in March 2007 as part of the annual DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation for Fighting AIDS) Collection fundraiser. A silent auction of an array of fashion accessories benefited Fashion Group International’s Career Day scholarship fund. —Robert McAllister
