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}