March 16, 2016 –OC Fashion Week (OCFW) presented by Maserati Newport Beach welcomed guests for high-fashion runway attendees to The Resort at Pelican Hill.  President of OC Fashion Council, Kathryn Marino opened the couture runway by acknowledging Orange County as a luxury fashion hub with over $35 billion in annual sales. Marino praised the designers for their individual accomplishments and for continuing the legacy of Orange County incubated design. Runway collections presented were Dawn Sunflower Couture (VOGUE/Glamour), Charmaine Joie Couture, MW by Mimoza Windisch, b.spoke, Claire Farwell London, and Victoria By Elizabeth.

Highlights include designer Charmaine Joie Couture’s ornate collection with an Old Hollywood aesthetic. Lots of sheer looks with applique details. Floor-length gowns with boat and sweetheart necklines, romantic styling on the hair, curled and tufted to perfection. More contemporary looks featured crystal adorned headpieces and sequined styles with art deco fabrication and sheer contrasting panels. The finale dress was worn by America’s Next Top Model alum Naima Mora who also showed her new collection during OCFW.

Designer Dawn Sunflower followed Old Hollywood runway with a romantic bridal collection. Silhouettes were ethereal in movement and nature. Beautifully constructed trumpet skirts with timeless tailoring and placement of princess seams. A standout piece was a bolero with an open back and lace trim, beautifully layered over a corset dress with lace shoulder straps. Upper bodices noticeably took-on more French influence toward the end of the collection. One closing look arrived as a conservative style with side-tie closures that boldly converted into an embellished, after-wedding bodysuit. 

(Photos: James Giovanni/OC Fashion Week -Models Naima Mora and Candice wearing Charmaine Joie Couture)

ABOUT OC FASHION WEEK 2016:  Maserati of Newport Beach presented audiences front row to a lineup of incredible couture collections from an eclectic and distinguished array of designers. The World of Fashion Photography competition captured highlights of the best of the runway.  The event was held at La Capella at The Resort at Pelican Hill, the intimate space with large ocean view featured an incredible seaside, five-star luxury resort runway experience. Hair is presented by Toni and Guy Hairdressing Academy, make-up by Manna Kadar Cosmetics, and accessory styling presented by Betinnis in Brea. To learn more about HAUTE OC & OC FASHION WEEK visit http://www.hauteoc.com.