Since opening three years ago, West Ave has gradually added a mix of fashion retailers, so owners of the complex at Kirby and Westheimer decided it was time to show off what their stores have to offer. They erected a huge tent in the center in the middle of the center for a stylish runway show called "Fashion On the Avenue" and invited some of Houston's top trendsetters to catch a glimpse of what's in store for spring.
Mirror/MirrorhostRebecca Spera emceed the show that featured selections from Tootsies, Ivannia Boutique, Ivory Bridal Atelier, Langford Market, Q Clothier, Rye 51, SAM and lilli, St. Nicola, Stash Co. and Suitsupply. The catwalk was filled with bold neon colors and swirly prints, with styles ranging from paisley linen blazers for men to lace rompers for women.
Also featured were embroidered ivory lace wedding gowns, leather cross bags dripping in fringe, a ruched sundress with jeweled straps, pastel loafers and leather moto jackets with skinny pants. Some of the looks were accessorized with Ziio necklaces earrings and bracelets that combine silver, gold, semi-precious stones and Murano glass. The line is repped by Houstonian Terrie Turner, who was on hand, along with husband Mike.
Since some of the retailers concentrate exclusively on accessories, fashion show organizer Lenny Matuszewski got creative, sending models in jeans and T-shirts laden with handbags and shoes. And what's a fashion show without a little beefcake?
To showcase vintage bags from Stash Co., a couple of male models appeared in leather aprons and not much else.
Seen in the throng were Vivian Wise and Sergio Morales, Mauri Oliver, Yasmine Haddad, Beth Wolfe, Jane Page Crump, Jared Lang, Kim Padgett, ElMatha Wilder, Dominique Sachse and Nick Florescu, Patti and Don Murphy, Michael Chabala, Dr. Roland Maldonado, Tena Faust, Elizabeth Stein, Al Trullenque, and Dr. Cecil Yeung.
When the show ended, guests headed for after-party hosted by Ligne Roset in its West Ave store, with tunes by DJ Little Martin.
The evening, which benefited CancerForward, was an in-house affair as West Ave salons Azur West and Edward Sanchez Vanity Lounge, did the hair and makeup for the models and Eddie V’s, Del Frisco’s Grille, Cru, Nara, Saint Genevieve and Trenza provided light bites for the crowd.
Organizers said they planned to make "Fashion on the Avenue" an annual affair.
Beefcake mixed in with the spring styles at Fashion on the Avenue.
