L.A. Fashion Week Fall '05: Cesar de la Parra
Drama was in the air when Los Angeles designer Cesar de la Parra unveiled his Fall/Winter collection for 2005. The show opened with three women, elaborately attired with wigs that practically touched the floodlights, sashaying down the runway. The designer’s inspiration this season was the opera, which explained the dramatic flair that surrounded his March 20 show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios in Culver City.
“I’ve been going to the theater and special occasions lately, and I don’t see women dressing up. Everyone is wearing jeans and T-shirts,” said the Mexico native, who spent three years studying at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College.
De la Parra infused his eveningwear collection with ample doses of sophisticated black, brown, gray and light-pink hues. The look was definitely on the frilly side, with waves of ruffles and corseted tops. Fabrics such as organza and satin added an element of elegance, while lace and fur trim upped the ante. The designer said his goal is to bring more glamour to Los Angeles. —Deborah Belgum
