Texan designer Lela Rose was in town last Thursday for the Labels for Love MODUS UNION 2010 fashion show to benefit the Center for Heart, Lung and Kidney Disease at Children's Hospital. Lela Rose, pictured above with me, showed her spring/summer 2010 collection.  What I love about Lela Rose's work is her respect for fabric and the intricate embroidery and detailing that goes into each piece.  The spring collection borrowed inspiration for Alex Katz paintings with subdued hues of yellows, pinks, and subtle tie dying on frocks.

Lela never shys away from color so it was to be expected.  What wowed the audience were the frocks with origami style folding, one shoulder gowns with intricate embossed embroidery and silk gowns that flowed like a quiet stream on a spring morning.

The shoe, which were also designed by Lela Rose, were to die for.  Wedge heels that almost every Washingtonian woman flocks to, come spring and summer.  What surprised me was that the Lela Rose footwear was available at Payless.  I think everyone in the room vowed to swing by a Payless to snag a pair.  Celebrity hair stylist Ted Gibson and his partner, master colorist Jason Backe, along with his team, created the runway hair and make-up looks to compliment the collection.


Mary Amons, rumored to be a cast member of the Bravo reality series Real Housewives of DC, was the host and planner of the event.  Her hair, which looked so fabulous, was also done by Ted.  I absolutely love the color and her Lela Rose dress. Mary is also the founder of Labels for Love, which hosts the bi-annual District Sample Sale.

continue reading…