Mercedes-Benz Design Suites Expands
For the fourth season Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios in Culver City, Calif., will host the Design Suites at The Beverly Hilton, with over 50 designers presenting Spring 2006 collections October 18–20. More than 1,200 visitors including press, buyers and stylists are expected to attend.
Nancy Tam, Design Suites manager, said that the number of exhibitors has grown from 36 last season to 52 this season. Tam added that the suites are a way for up-and-coming designers who are not showing in the fashion shows to present their collections and be a part of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.
Swimwear lines Abigail Lebay, Jacquelyne Love, Dolce Mare and Forplay and action sports line Split are new additions this year, according to Lauren Gurvich, West Coast director of sales and marketing for the Design Suites. Gurvich reached out to denim, swimwear and action sportswear lines to provide a broad range of brands that are important to the California lifestyle and fashion market.
Some of the exhibitors include Avita,BGN Paris, Bone People Brand Jeans, Charlotte Tarantola accessories, Chinese Laundry, Dylan & Dillion, Faire Frou Frou, Kasil Jeans, Modern Adornment jewelry, Red Engine jeans, Roca Wear, Taverniti So Jeans and Thinktank tees. The Design Suites are open to the trade. For a full listing of exhibitors and more information, visit http://www.mbfashionweek.com/spring2006/the_suites/.—Rhea Cortado
