photo: Pete Springer.When I received the email “will you go to the Belmont Street Fair for a fashion show?” I speedily ran through my mind to find excuses.
Nonetheless, I prepared for the battle on Belmont. I laced up my black Coach combat boots, donned my aviators, slipped into my Marc Jacobs combat pants and my new black fur motorcycle jacket. After pushing my way past painted faces, dogs wearing handkerchiefs, and a trolley, I came upon the behemoth building that is home of KOiPOD Salon. The building is more Pearl District than Belmont in its rectilinear modernity. The fashion show featured looks from Local35, Moxie, Pin Me Apparel, and the debut collection of salon owner Kahala Orian, KOiPOD.
photo: Pete Springer.
at moxie. photo: Pete Springer.
The show kicked off with two hip hop dancers then opened with the clothing from Moxie. Moxie is the label for young women who resemble the really well dressed non-mall shopper in high school (I can certainly identify with that!). Local35 continues to work its focus on hard denim, silkscreen tees, and hoodies. Apparently, they now sell the marvelous J. Linderberg as well. Pin Me Apparel (ultra loves Sally!) has dramatic flair with a retro feel for all sizes. Not many boutiques can claim that niche. I fell into a faint over the white fleece admiral coat with metal fireman clasps.
design: KOiPOD. photo: Pete Springer.
This led to the unveiling of Kahala Orian’s KOiPOD. Orian takes the essence of salon creativity to the runway with his menswear line. The collection was heavy with KOiPOD branding, from personalized belt buckles to knit hats. The line had an urban warrior feel, less about tailoring but more about comfort and making a statement with uniquely placed zippers and random embroidery. Orian relied on military hues and reverse seaming for his debut.
design: KOiPOD. photo: Pete Springer.
-Ashkan
updated Monday September 11 2006 21:32
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