Los Angeles Fashion Week (LAFW): The Melting Pot of Dreamers, Designers, and Divas

If New York is the grand old dame of ‘Fashion Weeks,’ then Los Angeles is that sizzling, fun younger cousin who just got back from a year abroad and won’t stop talking about it. And we’re here for it.

Gypsy Sport's runway show at LAFW 2022

Photo: LAFW

This year, Los Angeles turned up the heat (literally and figuratively) for its Fashion Week, hosted at the extravagant NYA Studios. Gone are the days when LA played second fiddle to the NYFW.

Thanks to visionaries at N4XT Experiences, the West Coast has officially claimed its seat at the table, with a fashionable fusion of art, technology, and – wait for it – sustainability.

For those keeping score, that’s LA: 1, Rest of the World: 0.

 

Now, let’s chat ‘designers.’

Theophilio‘s Caribbean-driven charisma was a major showstopper. Weaving stories of the Jamaican diaspora, it had me vibing to Bob Marley in my head. And that sequined trenchcoat and the ‘I Love TP’ bedazzled shirt? A total vibe.

This runway didn’t just parade clothes it echoed stories, resonated culture, and celebrated the spirit of inclusivity. And honestly, that’s the kind of fashion energy we’re manifesting for 2023!

Theophilio runway show LAFW 2023

Photo: Arturo Holmes (Getty Images)

Pivoting from Jamaica to LA’s local vibe, Advisry‘s ‘City of Trees’ – an ode to Sacramento – brought film, art, and clothing to narrate a story. And when we talk about ‘multidisciplinary,’ this presentation nailed it. Keith Herron, the brains behind the brand, is the quintessential millennial – he follows his heart, and honey, his heart is pure gold.

In between the sizzling runway shows, we were treated to edifying panels, interactive activations, and my personal fave, the Beauty Lab. In collaboration with Lancôme, it’s more than a sneak peek into beauty tech it’s the dawn of a more informed, gorgeous future.

Of course, in true LA style, the event was sprinkled with a dash of star power. From Sergio Hudson (Beyoncé’s go-to guy, just FYI) to Claude Kameni (shoutout to Tracee Ellis Ross and Viola Davis for being fans), it was a glamour-packed week.

Theophilio Runway Show SS23

Photo: Launchmetrics Spotlight

Closing out with No Sesso‘s show and the Saintwoods after-party, the week was an emotional rollercoaster.

The culmination? LA has arrived, stomping its chic heels on the global fashion stage. And trust me, it’s here to stay. The world watched as LA crafted its unique blend of inclusivity, innovation, and inspiration. And if this is the future of fashion, sign me up!