Los Angeles Fashion Week Spring '05: Da-Nang

Da-Nang returned to the runway on Oct. 29 at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios in Culver City.

To set the scene, two muscular models dressed in camouflage and straw hats guarded the runway entrance while a drummer played the African djembe, a bongo-style drum. Models walked the runway wearing looks from the company’s labels, Da-Nang, Rangoon and children’s line Da-Nang Kids.

Creator Albert Dahan said the line, designed by his wife, Estelle, is a lifestyle brand and the soft, washed-down fabrics are the common threads between each collection.

For Spring, Da-Nang showed more feminine looks than it did last season, including many styles in bright colors, prints and ruffles. The women’s line featured silk chiffons, Indian-inspired printed silks and silk burnouts combined with comfortable cotton voiles, poplins and cottons. Camisoles, shrugs, jackets and long tunics were layered over shorts, capri pants and tiered skirts for a feminine, yet casual look. Sequins and embroidery decorated the fabrics, and belts and layered necklaces accessorized the look. —N. Jayne Seward