October 24, 2007

Fabulous Finds: "Soleful" Purpose Keeping Up with Eco Fashion...

by Carrie Pollare, Editor

Being the editor of White Apricot is a very tough job. Not only do I have to try to keep bringing you exciting and informative new stories, but I’m also forced to attend lots of events to make sure I’m on the pulse of what’s happening in the world of eco and socially conscious fashion, beauty and lifestyle. And it’s such a drag…like, for example, having to sit front and center at an amazing fashion show that helped kick off LA’s Fashion Week recently, featuring some of the most talented, emerging, high style and couture designers in the business. Oh well…someone’s got to do it.

Now, let me get serious. Produced by Pollinator Media Group and Pink Cloud Events and hosted by BoxEight Productions, Eco Nouveau (www.econouveau.com) featured the Spring/Summer ’08 collections of sustainable designers Gary Harvey, Bahar Shahpar and Amanda Shi (Avita) at a venue that definitely doesn’t scream fashion show…but it was perfect. I’m talking about Vibiana (www.vibianala.com), a restored cathedral in Downtown LA that was transformed into a vibrant high energy runway and stage.

I pride myself on being quite the “fashionista,” but I was unprepared for the genius of Gary Harvey. I have to say that these gowns are for the red carpet or black tie extravaganza, not for going out to dinner (unless you want to make a major statement), but they’re unbelievable. Each one brought bigger “ooooo’s and aaahhhh’s” from the sizeable crowd. I’ve included a photo of the “Newspaper Dress,” which is made out of 30 copies of the London Financial Times, attached to a pink corset, and of my personal favorite, the “Mac Dress,” which boasts 18 trench coats, attached to a “Burberry” corset and worn with a cropped “Burberry” Mac. All of Harvey’s designs are inspired by vintage couture and made entirely from recycled garments. You can learn more about him at www.garyharveycreative.com and you should…because everyone should experience these works of art.

After you’ve “ooooo’ed” and “aaahhh’ed” over Gary Harvey, come back down to earth, get online and check out the very wearable work of Bahar Shahpar. Her collection was light, feminine and more everyday in style, using all ecologically sound materials. I was particularly fond of her use of silver and gold metallic linens in a belted shell and trouser outfit and a pleated swing dress. Learn more at www.baharshahpar.com.

Since I can’t be everywhere at once (although I do try), I, unfortunately, missed Amanda Shi’s runway show. Don’t worry. We’re already all over Avita and will be covering the line very soon.

I love my job!

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