Art, Fashion and Culture Converge at Agenda

The RVCA Artist Network showcased the many artsy poses of Erin Wasson.

The worlds of action sports, streetwear and art converged in a cultural mash up at the Agenda Trade Show. Exhibitors and buyers literally took over the Hyatt Regency in Huntington Beach, Calif., for the January 8 - 9 run of the event. The scene was colorful and upbeat—a full-on display of art, fashion and function setting the stage for Fall fashion trends in the action sport and streetwear markets.

Erin Wasson gets the paint treatment from artist Kelsey Brookes.

Images of Erin Wasson captured the art-meets-fashion edge upon entry to the show. Various artists in RVCA’s Artist Network Program painted the model-cum-designer in an art installation set behind the check-in booth. Other brands such as Insight showed their individuality by transforming their suite into a creative enclave complete with a live painting installation by “Garage Artists” Dethkills and a performance by Tijuana Panthers.

Amongst the streetwise grit, there was even a touch of celebrity and sophistication. Gourmet made a high-class statement by assembling their shoes on silver platters on an elaborate banquet table. And legendary skater Paul Rodriguez, aka P-Rod, made an appearance to celebrate the launch of his new P-Rod for Nike SB clothing collection.

And yes there were plenty of fashion trends to be found. The ’80s were still going strong, with acid-wash denim, leather moto jackets and body-conscious dresses. There was a continuation of classic Americana-themed looks, a plethora of plaid and military-inspired jackets. Social causes and Internet culture had a strong presence, too. TOMS Shoes debuted new fashion-centric styles for Fall, and RVCA showed of-the-moment blogger fashions designed by Fashion Toast’s Rumi Neely.

Here are some fashionable highlights from Agenda.

A Volcom ad featuring '80s style hipsters in leather jackets, off-the-shoulder mesh tops and shredded jeans.

Insight's oh, so '80s dress - acid washes, strapless and bustier-inspired.

Insight's tribal print bodysuit.

TOMS' ombre shaded shoes for Fall '10 inspired by the historic Indian Spice Route.

A fashionable wedge for Summer '10 by TOMS.

RVCA dress designed by Fashion Toast's Rumi Neely.

Shoes by Gourmet delivered on a silver platter.

Some serious shades by Crooks Castles.

A plaid shirt with denim panache by hot new men's line Aknowledge.

Aknowledge delivers more bang for the fashion buck with a pair of competitively priced '80s painted splattered distressed jeans.

Devine Calloway signature shawl collar cardigan by Etnies.

And like fashion, art is a work in progress....