L.A. Fashion Week Spring 2011: Designer Launchpad Presented by Fashion Business Inc. and Focus Trade
New and emerging brands were placed front and center at the Designer Launchpad show on Oct. 17. Comedian Brett Walkow emceed the event, which drew retailers and the fashion curious to the Focus apparel and accessories show, located in the penthouse of the California Market Center.
Los Angeles–based label Simply Mimi exhibited eight casual looks constructed in silks and Tencel knits. This line’s first collection showed some chiffon skirts, see-through tops, jump suits and strapless dresses.
Phoenix-based Coleccion AP also showed eight looks. Designer Alma Primero Salaz took evening sizzle and put it on casual bodies in her collection. The silky materials and sequins typically used for gowns were instead used for pants suits. Primero Salaz hopes to produce her label in Los Angeles.
The Renata J label is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and produced in India. Designer Renata Jhunjhnuwala showed eight looks, which included styles such as strapless cocktail dresses and maxi dresses. She chose bright, floral-inspired colors for her third collection. “Every girl wants to stand out,” Jhunjhnuwala said.
The Angelino menswear brands showed more than 12 looks, which consisted of slim-fit shirts, vests and jeans. The shirts were characterized by high collars, big cuffs and details such as embroidery. There were also a few styles for women.
Free Nevaeh offered tunic tops and dresses with various garment dyes.
Kids’ Dhana eco-wear line also hit the runway for this show.—Andrew Asch
