L.A. Fashion Week Spring '08: Moda Made in Italy
Claudio Montias made an audacious debut at Milan Fashion Week on Sept. 23. One month later, he and three other Italian designers made something of a repeat performance at South Coast Plaza, the luxury shopping center in Costa Mesa, Calif.
On Oct. 23, they took the stage in a runway show held at the mall’s elegant Bridge of Gardens plaza. It was the American debut of Montias as well as that of Italian designers Georgia Turri, Rosamosario and Lavinia Turra. The gala show was co-sponsored by the California Apparel News, The Fashion Group International and the Italian Trade Commission.
Montias, who has held design positions at Versace and Dolce & Gabbana, produced a 15-look runway show at the event. It featured the designer’s footwear styles and also showcased his ready-to-wear, including an attention- grabbing dress written up in the press after the Milan show. The dress’s top half gleamed with a silver-colored fabric. The lower half was literally metallic; it was made of colorful steel rings and gold.
Rosamosario gave Italy’s interpretation of lingerie and sleepwear with a 10-look show. With cotton, silk and lace, the label offered items such as translucent white gowns, which covered ornate bra and panty sets.
Lavinia Turra embraced the romance of Italian literature with her collection. Some pieces, such as a tunic shirt, were emblazoned with the words of poet Gabriele Via. Turra’s 15-look line also featured some classic, feminine body shapes and rolled hems, or a modified version of the bubble skirt.
Georgia Turri hoped to supply something for every woman in her 15-look show, which featured shoes. The line offered everything from ballet flats to pumps. After the show, the 200 guests moved to South Coast Plaza’s Jewel Court for champagne; espresso; and, of course, pasta. —A.A.
