Luv Designs, Dollface Debut at Celebrity Centre
More than 200 fashion fans and supporters turned out at the Celebrity Centre in Hollywood on Oct. 22 to view the Spring collections of three budding Los Angeles designers who capped off Los Angeles Fashion Week with their independently produced event.
Designer Chrystal Morris, who uses the name Chrystal Michelle on her label, opened up the two-part show with her Luv Designs collection, featuring sexy silhouettes with plunging necklines as well as more vintage-inspired pieces with big waistbands and lace treatments. Morris, a 2003 graduate of American InterContinental University, had been doing custom bridalwear and other pieces and recently branched out into ready-to-wear and sportswear.
“I try to make it feel as comfortable as possible, almost like you have nothing on,” said Morris. “It’s definitely geared for the L.A. woman.”
The designer used stretch French teri, poly rayon and woven jersey materials with juicy colors like lemonade and cranberry.
The team of Kathryn Umayam and Keshia McCray wrapped up the event by debuting their Dollface collection, consisting of contemporary lounge and streetwear.
Umayam and McCray worked together while at Joie and recently decided to try their hands at producing a line of locally produced garments for the young, contemporary market. They showed about 25 styles featuring updated camo prints on pants and ruffled shorts as well as on tailored jackets. The collection transitioned into more feminine looks with ruffled cocktail dresses in hypnotic blue as well as more formal strapless gowns in a sizzling yellow shade called hot mustard.
“Kathryn is more girly. I’m more edgy,” said McCray, explaining the variations in design. Following the show, the designers and guests convoyed over to The Wet Lounge on Sunset Boulevard for an after party.—Robert McAllister
