I don’t mean to brag, but I think I had the best Valentine’s date ever last night. He’s stylish, successful, and plays a mean game of tennis. No, I’m not secretly dating Andy Roddick (but if you wanted to start that rumor, I’d be okay with it). Last night, André Leon Talley was honored with the Fashion Innovator Award at EMERGE! , a fashion event that showcased six of the best up-and-coming designers. I was so fortunate to cover this event on behalf of Her Campus and am giving my favorite fashionistas (a.k.a. you) the low-down.
The Red Carpet
Just because this event was for emerging designers doesn’t mean that it wasn’t filled with celebrities. The superstars at this soiree would make any reality television addict swoon. From America’s Next Top Model’s Toccara Jones to The Real Housewives of New York City’s Alex McCord and Simon Van Kempen, EMERGE! was an unforgettable star-studded affair. Even J Alexander, a.k.a. Miss Jay from America’s Next Top Model, attended the fashion extravaganza. Though J always rocks show-stopping pieces, his fashion philosophy isn’t very different from a typical collegiette’s. “If it’s comfortable, wear it,” says J. “And mix it up.” Yes, there is such a thing as comfortable and fierce outfits!
The Award
If all of these celebrities didn’t get you excited, this will: Diane von Furstenberg- yes, the Diane von Furstenberg- presented André with the Fashion Innovator Award. Two fashion powerhouses under one roof? It was almost too much glamour to handle. Almost. Before André walked on stage to accept his award, Diane told the audience fun anecdotes about her and André’s fashion adventures. Not only did Diane refer to André as a dear friend, but she also mentioned that she always keeps him in her prayers. I know what you’re thinking: how can you get on André’s level? After Diane’s precious prelude, it was the moment we had all been waiting for: André’s acceptance speech! Looking fabulous as always, André thanked Diane and called her the sister he should’ve had. Whoever said the fashion industry was cold clearly was not aware of Diane and André’s relationship. After he stressed the importance of up-and-coming designers, André told the audience to continue emerging. Just like that, the fashion show began!
The Fashion
Let’s not forget that there were six designers showing their Fall 2012 RTW collections. Each designer brought something fashion-forward and innovative to the table. Elie Kuame, the Belgian designer of Elie Kaume Couture, showcased fun pops of color and well-executed bodices. Michael Alan Stein of Michael Alan Stein Designs displayed versatile dresses for the everyday woman. Are you looking for some awesome separates and feathered pieces? The young geniuses behind Goca Designs gave us just that! Funkinbeautiful’s designer Terri Stevens coupled detailed pieces with super sassy hats. Autumn always calls for fashion-forward jackets. With an array of beautiful silhouettes and fun fabrics, Evoli Fac’cion provides us some great outerwear to gush over. Last, but not least, Barbara Bates showcased extravagant separates that any fashionable diva will love.
Eli Kuame
Michael Alan Stein
Goca Designs
Funkinbeautiful
Evoli Fac’cion
Barbara Bates
With their incredible talent and spot-on vision, you can bet that we’ll be hearing from these designers again!