California Apparel News

Now here's an idea for showing your latest collection during Los Angeles Fashion Week. Take to the streets, not the runways.

Recently the retail chain New York & Co. decided to display its latest Eva Mendes collection on the streets of Manhattan and on the steps of the New York Public Library at Bryant Park, once home to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week before it moved over to Lincoln Center.

The models rode on a double decker bus, going to three different spots. They started at Bryant Park then went on to Flatiron Plaza and eventually the New York & Co. flagship store at 58th & Lexington.

Some creative designer in Los Angeles could do the same thing here, but using the subway instead of a bus. They could start at the Hollywood & Highland shopping center, home of the Dolby Theatre, where the Academy Awards take place every year. Dancing down the stairs along the Awards Corridor, the models could then take the red line subway at the Hollywood & Highland station towards downtown and get off at the Civic Center stop, which is near the vast Grand Park. Waltzing down through Grand Park, the entourage could gather on the steps of City Hall, to remind the local politicians of the fashion industry's importance.

From there the group could get on the subway at the Civic Center station and get off at Union Station, the 75-year-old railroad station done in a Mission Revival and Streamline Moderne style of architecture. The wide corridors and tall ceilings are perfect for showcasing a collection.

A post-fashion show celebration could be held at the Traxx restaurant at the station.