Philly Fashion Week just wrapped up this past Saturday, and I dropped by the city in time to catch the finale event–the Couture Runway Show. Since PFW is obviously smaller than other fashion weeks, I feel like a lot of really great aspects fall under the radar, and newcomers don’t know what to expect.
Initially, one of my friends made the remark, “isn’t it going to be a bit tame for Fashion Vandals?” which made me realize that Philly doesn’t really get enough credit, and the amount of talent and variety in the city often goes unnoticed due to its proximity to NY.
Prior to the show I was fixated on the red carpet host, Karina Bradley (really, Riss, that’s what you’re focusing on? Yes, yes I am.). She was this totally over-the-top, heavily sequined Barbie-esque pop star with the hair of a beauty pageant contestant, about as much eyeshadow as me, and every time I looked at her she somehow managed to change outfits without my noticing…
The show itself ran the gamut from dramatic wedding gowns, fresh and bright menswear, to otherworldly gothic creations. Highlights included AmareSinh’s collection–heavy on sheer panels, detachable pockets, and hidden belts.
English Clientele’s polished formalwear, with just the right amount of whimsy (that’s right, I said whimsy).
And you had to love the styling choices made by DMarsh Couture… The models all wore butterfly-adorned clear plastic bands around their heads–something which resulted in a mixture of oohs, ahs, and confused laughter from the audience.
Although what absolutely made the night for me, and is the source of my new designer crush was Autumnlin, a last-minute addition to the designer lineup. But I’ll have an entire post devoted to that tomorrow…
