Fresh Designs at the Designer Launchpad Runway Show

{PC - Kerryn Leigh}

I was invited to see the Designer Launchpad fashion show at the California Market Center (CMC) during the last market week. These shows are a great way to see new up-and-coming designers and their collections. This show was busier than the previous one I attended during the last LA Fashion Week. Unfortunately, I missed half of the show due to traffic for the Lakers but was able to view the collections up close after the show.

My favorite line from the show was Kerryn Leigh. It consisted of great basic pieces that can be mixed and matched for numerous looks. The philosophy behind the line was to create wardrobe classics that live beyond trends and seasons. The pieces were so soft to touch and felt like a soft hug against your skin. This line is one that I could see making its way into my closet.

While walking among the booths after the show, I ran into Alexana from Dollimou who showed her collection at the last Designer Launchpad. She's an absolute doll in person and since I was there, she showed me what was coming in her next few collections. I love her line as it's perfect "beach chic" and am very excited for her holiday collection.

I am looking forward to seeing the next batch of new-comers CMC showcases in its next Designer Launchpad.

Miranda & I at the Designer Launchpad Runway Show.

{what I'm wearing: Dress: Betsey Johnson, Shoes: Derek Lam, Bag: Louis Vuitton}

Designer Launch Pad 2010 Runway Show at CMC

I headed back to the California Market Center (CMC) last Saturday for the Designer Launch Pad Runway Show held upstairs in the penthouse. Seven emerging designers presented their Fall 2010 collections. These new designers did not disappoint.

Beautiful custom designed lingerie from Love Dragons helped to start the show. The looks were accessorized with beautiful hats and shrug coats. There was something to satisfy every mood, from sexy to flirty.

{PC - Volker Corell}

Loungewear from Toute la Nuit came down the runway next. Each piece was something you could imagine slipping into and enjoying a relaxing evening in at home. I loved that the pieces were stylish and Toute la Nuit showed that loungewear does not have to be boring!

{PC - Volker Corell}

Dollimou had a fun take on the "classic" California girl's wardrobe. Sending casual-chic t-shirts, sweatpants, dresses and tank tops down the runway complete with heels! I loved the fun, bold, tourist inspired graphics on some of the pieces.

Mariska was one of my favorite collections from the evening. The trench coat and military inspired jackets had my name all over them! I'm a sucker for an amazing tailored jacket, it gets me every time. The collection had a very sexy and mysterious feel to it, one that will turn people's heads whenever these pieces are worn.

Gia Lee created a collection of neutral colors and bold geometric prints that are perfect for the weekend getaway to Palm Springs, right down to the 1960's inspiration.

Jen Awad became my LAFW crush this season. I was lucky enough to be invited to see her entire collection a few days later at Concept. I love how she mixes rock n' roll and classic lady-like style that blends perfectly together. A black fitted faux-leather dress with an oversized collar made me swoon a bit.

The swoon-worthing leather dress on left

The show was amazing and I loved to see such talented Los Angeles based designers. There are good things to come from these designers and I'm looking forward to their next collections.

The evening ended for me with dinner at the Wood Spoon in downtown LA with some of my fashionable friends. Fashion, good food and fun girlfriends...perfect day!

Left to right: Laurie, Macala, Me, Kelsi, Sandra, Ana Maria

{PC - Kelsi Smith}