Last Wednesday, February 12, Rusk presented NOLCHA Fashion Week held at the Chelsea Studios Pier 59. NOLCHA is an incubator for fresh fashion talent and a platform for discovering and promoting innovative independent designers. There were many designers’ collections showcased on the runway in three set interval times at 3:00pm, 5:30pm and 8:30pm shows. I originally RSVP for the 5:30 but the show started before I was able to make in time to take my seat. It was impossible to get to my seat with the standing crowd and guards who closed off the entrance. So I stayed for the 8:30pm runway show which was remarkable. With five designers showcasing their designs, three of the collections i was very drawn to. My top favorite designers were L. Catherine London, Gabrielle Arruda and Dany Tabet.
I loved L. Catherine London designs with their craftsmanship and combination of fabrics that made it look so luxurious with a European flare but designates contemporary glamour. Dany Tabet’s collection was so breathtaking and oozed with elegance. You couldn’t take your eyes off any of the eveningwear that walked down the runway. The quality, creativity, the movement and architectural details of the gowns were jaw dropping. Garbrielle Arruda’s designs were very modern, fresh and dynamic. The ready to wear garments orchestrated functionality and flexibility for fashionable longevity.
Each collection of designs conveyed a different message to me. L. Catherine London’s designs spoke spontaneity and tentative but coincide luxe practicality. The different shapes, cuts, fabrics and layers composed of versatility on the higher end for public consumers. This line is for those who are not afraid to be spontaneous, experimental and fun with their own attire.
I honestly fancy very sparkly and dazzling, non-overly avant garde dresses and gowns. Looking at Dany’s Tabet’s designs, it felt like the epitome of beauty; as if you were to put his gown on, you would feel like the most beautiful woman in the world. Although, his designs are not the mainstream apparel for the common consumer, every woman, young and old, enjoys that sensation of beauty and elegance but exerting strength, boldness and assertiveness.
Out of the three, I think Gabrielle Arruda’s designs were the most wearable for fashionistas on the street. With a “camouflage” collection, it read “for every girl, there is a style” to me. She showcased several different styles that would tailor to an individual’s personality in a coherent fashion.
It’s great to see fresh and innovative designers stay true to their vision, passion and inspirations and watch their work bloom into magnificent art. NOLCHA sets the stage and does not disappoint.
There were also a few celebrities who attended the show including , Derek J (Fashion Queens), Zendaya (actress/singer) and Courtney Kerr (Courtney Loves Dallas) and I had the pleasure meeting Derek J and Zendaya. It was a great show and I would love to go again in September. Thank you for reading and happy fashion week recap!