Los Angeles Fashion Week Spring '08: A Season of Contrasts
<p>This season Los Angeles presented the full range of its contrasting character. With nearly a month of runway shows, Angelenos were reminded of the diversity offered on the Left Coast, with the looks on the runway as varied as the venues in which they were presented during the Oct. 12-30 run. Runway shows were presented by <b>BOXeight</b> at <b>Vibiana</b> in downtown Los Angeles and at <b>Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios</b> in Culver City. The <b>California Market Center</b> hosted contemporary collections on the runway throughout the <b>Los Angeles Fashion Market</b>, and the <b>Los Angeles Fashion Awards</b> showcased the innovative designer nominees. And, of course, independent shows and events around town offered designers the versatility of creating a personalized presentation. The shows put the spotlight on everything from T-shirts, sweats and denim to contemporary labels, designer readyto- wear and red-carpet finery. For Spring '08, the runway reintroduced sportswear with bold colors, graphic prints and dynamic '80s silhouettes. A colorful new-wave look emerged with a techy cartoon twist reminiscent of Japanese animation. On the softer side of the spectrum, classic romantic looks, sheer fabrics and floral prints were prevalent. Key silhouettes ranged from high-waisted trousers to chic rompers and dresses in every possible variety. Eco-designers took center stage presenting looks ranging from casual bamboo dresses at <b>Ecoganik</b> to Gary Harvey's couture gowns made of recycled newspapers. And technology made an imprint on the season with high-tech fabrics, metallics, tie-dyes and ombré treatments. Whimsical themes took shape on the runway as some designers, including Jeremy Scott, made fashion from the "unfashionable," while others-including Suh-Tahn, Juan Carlos Obando and Jasmin Shokrian-took a more serious approach with innovative, architectural designs. Here is a look at the season's key trends.
The TrouserTrousers are key for Spring. Variations include high waists, wide legs, skinny proportions and pleating-and … |
On a WhimDesigners turn up the theatrics this season with an over-the-top sense of style. Inspiration comes … |
The Shirt DressThe shirt dress is the freshest take on Spring's key item. And designers created inventive … |
Sport ReportSportswear makes a return for Spring with clean styling, bold colors and high-tech fabrics. High-waisted … |
Cutting-Edge TreatmentsFabric treatments and design details take on a high-tech, artistic feel this season. Fabrics defy … |
Sheer DramaTransparency is a key aesthetic for Spring, and designers have an individual approach to the … |
Eco-ChicEco-alternatives have become the latest in fashion cool. Designs ranged from casually chic T-shirts and … |
Romper RoomThe romper takes a decidedly chic turn for Spring with all-over prints, vintage styling and … |
New-Wave RaveEighties pop meets techy cool with a new-wave hybrid look. Styles are perfect for casual … |
Modern ManMenswear takes a modern approach for Spring. Companies ranging from eco-conscious to hard-core rock 'n' … |
French TwistClassically styled dresses and clothing are reminiscent of 18th century French style. Ruffles, shirring and … |
Point of HueThe color trend continues into Spring, and the runway was filled with bold palettes. Styles … |
