Los Angeles Fashion Week 2017: A Deep Dive into Emerging Trends and Designer Collections

My journey into the world of high fashion runway shows began with the inspiring FIDM Debut in Spring 2015. As a fashion school graduate, I was captivated by the creativity, uniqueness, and impeccable craftsmanship on display. Since that moment, attending fashion shows has become a personal quest, a way to witness the pulse of the industry firsthand.

In 2016, life took me to Michigan, a place not exactly known for its fashion-forward headlines. However, this year, a vacation to Los Angeles presented an incredible opportunity: an invitation to Los Angeles Fashion Week. Despite a busy travel schedule, I prioritized attending two runway shows, eager to immerse myself in the LA fashion scene.

Hosted by Art Hearts Fashion at the luxurious Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles Fashion Week 2017 exceeded all my expectations. The meticulously curated ambiance, from the vibrant music to the captivating art installations and elegant cocktail intermissions between shows, created an unforgettable experience.

Below, I’ll share my personal style for the event and delve into some of the most captivating looks that graced the runway, offering insights into the trends and designer visions that defined LA Fashion Week 2017.

My Los Angeles Fashion Week 2017 Look

For Los Angeles Fashion Week, I opted for a look that balanced contrasting elements with a touch of modern trendiness. This flowing, off-the-shoulder blue top, with its dramatic statement sleeves, immediately elevates the outfit with a fashion-forward sensibility.

The top’s soft, fluid nature creates a striking contrast with the edgier, more assertive vibe of the leather skirt. Grommet detailing adds a contemporary twist to the classic leather skirt silhouette, introducing texture and visual interest to the ensemble.

To complete the look, I chose white accessories as a crisp, contrasting pop of color. A white choker necklace, a white clutch positioned at the waist, and white pointed booties work together to create visual harmony and tie the disparate pieces into a cohesive and balanced outfit.

I also want to extend a special thank you to my sponsors, FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT and La Foglia, for their generous support in making my Los Angeles Fashion Week experience possible. These brands offer exceptional 100% organic skincare lines, formulated with pure, natural ingredients to nourish and treat your skin.

It’s also important to acknowledge that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I was honored to partner with these sponsors to support such a vital cause during Fashion Week.

Shop My Fashion Week Look

[

Puff Sleeve Wrap Top](http://redirect.viglink.com?key=adf3e4722921c865f9111d401dcb21f2&type=bk&u=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Ftopshop-puff-sleeve-poplin-wrap-top%2F4774317%3Fcountry%3DUS%26currency%3DUSD%26cm_mmc%3Dgoogle-_-productads-_-9383769113_-_-13956992%26rkg_id%3Dh-9d2908b671614e345ccd920208c7c1f5_t-1507583245%26adpos%3D1o9%26creative%3D57188931473%26device%3Dc%26network%3Dg%26gclid%3DEAIaIQobChMI7O6Smrnk1gIVHVYNCh1ftw4oEAkYCSABEgJU6vD_BwE)

[

Faux Leather Booties](http://redirect.viglink.com?key=adf3e4722921c865f9111d401dcb21f2&type=bk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.forever21.com%2Fus%2Fshop%2Fcatalog%2FProduct%2FF21%2Facc_features%2F2000196663)

[

Faux Leather Grommet Skirt](http://redirect.viglink.com?key=adf3e4722921c865f9111d401dcb21f2&type=bk&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.forever21.com%2FEU%2FProduct%2FProduct.aspx%3FBR%3Df21%26Category%3Dbottom_skirt%26ProductID%3D2000197413%26VariantID%3D)

[

White Choker](http://redirect.viglink.com?key=adf3e4722921c865f9111d401dcb21f2&type=bk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.forever21.com%2Fus%2Fshop%2Fcatalog%2FProduct%2FF21%2FACC%2F1000104114)

[

White Clutch](http://redirect.viglink.com?key=adf3e4722921c865f9111d401dcb21f2&type=bk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.forever21.com%2Fus%2Fshop%2Fcatalog%2FProduct%2FF21%2FACC%2F1000322049)

[

Statement Sleeve Top](http://redirect.viglink.com?key=adf3e4722921c865f9111d401dcb21f2&type=bk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwomen-s-statement-sleeve-stripe-off-the-shoulder-top-3hearts-juniors-blue-xl%2F-%2FA-52357166%3Fref%3Dtgt_adv_XS000000%26AFID%3Dgoogle_pla_df%26CPNG%3DPLA_Women%2BShopping%26adgroup%3DSC_Women%26LID%3D700000001170770pgs%26network%3Dg%26device%3Dc%26location%3D9031114%26gclid%3DEAIaIQobChMIo_2qxbnk1gIV1DyBCh0NgwaMEAkYBCABEgJdsPD_BwE%26gclsrc%3Daw.ds)

VICHI Swim

The first runway show I attended was VICHI Swim, which opened with a vibrant display of resort-inspired swimwear. Tropical prints dominated the collection, punctuated by dazzling sequins and a color palette that ranged from soft pastels to bold, bright hues. The overall aesthetic evoked the essence of a luxurious tropical getaway.

Accessories played a key role in completing the looks, with shell-inspired jewelry and playful tassel earrings adding to the beachy vibe. Lightweight chiffon coverups were strategically paired with select swimwear pieces, offering versatility and elegance. From daring bikinis to timeless one-pieces, the VICHI Swim collection presented a diverse range of styles to suit every taste and body type.

Among my personal favorites were the eye-catching yellow reversible monokini, a sophisticated blue lace-up one-piece styled under a flowing coverup, and a breathtaking gold one-piece featuring a dramatic plunging neckline that exuded glamour.

ES Collection

Next on the runway was ES Collection, a brand dedicated entirely to men’s fashion. Their swimwear collection presented a balanced mix of solid colors and eye-catching prints. The silhouettes were diverse, ranging from classic briefs and boxers to more relaxed shorts.

While less frequent, stylish jacket coverups occasionally punctuated the swimwear looks, adding layers and versatility. A recurring design element throughout the collection was tie detailing, which effectively unified the diverse pieces. (The pun wasn’t intended, but it seemed fitting to leave it in!) Thick waistbands, often in contrasting colors, were another prominent feature that added structure and visual interest.

Standout pieces for me included a bold black and pink patterned brief and vibrant yellow shorts accented with blue trim at the hem. I particularly appreciated the collection’s unique color and pattern combinations, offering a refreshing departure from conventional menswear swimwear designs seen elsewhere.

Mister Triple X Resort

Mister Triple X Resort closed the show with an energetic and unforgettable presentation. The show began with three models appearing simultaneously, launching into an unexpected hip-hop dance routine that immediately set the tone for an electrifying runway experience.

A strong color palette of black, white, and red ran throughout the collection, creating a visually striking impact. Staying true to the resort wear theme, floral and tropical patterns were also prominently featured, adding a vibrant and playful touch.

Striped swimsuits with graphic overlays created a unique “referee meets resort” aesthetic, blending sporty elements with tropical leisure. Another recurring motif was the use of reflective, mirror-image engineered patterns reminiscent of inkblot designs, adding an element of visual intrigue and modern artistry.

Models were accessorized with fresh plant leaves in their hair, a beautiful and natural touch that perfectly complemented the tropical resort theme, enhancing the overall visual narrative.

Personal highlights included a women’s one-piece swimsuit adorned with a captivating mix of stripes, roses, skulls, and butterflies. The back detail was exquisite, and the flowing kimono coverup added a layer of elegance. Intriguingly, the model’s back tattoo, in a surprising way, enhanced the overall look, adding a personal and unexpected element.

Another piece that captured my attention was a simple black one-piece swimsuit with thin red and yellow piping. The piping beautifully contoured the model’s body, suggesting a flattering and figure-enhancing design.

JONATHAN MARC STEIN

The Jonathan Marc Stein collection resonated with my own outfit’s theme for the evening: the interplay of hard and soft, structured and flowing. The juxtaposition of leather alongside satin and chiffon created striking contrasts, resulting in truly captivating and innovative pieces.

Recurring themes included metallic and sequined embellishments, playful fringe details, and a futuristic, glossy lipstick that unified the collection with a cohesive aesthetic.

One of my favorite looks was an all-white women’s ensemble featuring a plunging collared crop top that tied elegantly at the front, paired with high-waisted shorts. The look was both sophisticated and effortlessly chic.

I also admired a men’s open leather vest with a chain detail looped through the belt holes on each side, adding a touch of edgy sophistication. The structured collar of the vest was particularly impressive, and the accompanying pants were equally noteworthy. Subtle metallic pinstripes on the pants provided a perfect connection to the collection’s overarching metallic theme.

Dinkra

The Dinkra show stood out with its distinctive elements: exaggerated hairstyles, artful patchwork designs, tribal-inspired prints, and geometric accessories. The collection embraced a vibrant and bold use of color, creating a visually dynamic runway.

While the majority of the collection was a celebration of vibrant hues, the designers cleverly incorporated moments of grounding with simple black and white pieces, providing balance and visual respite. Stripes and chevron-like patterns were also recurring motifs in Dinkra’s diverse and visually rich collection.

I was immediately captivated by the opening look: an off-the-shoulder dress featuring a striking combination of chevron and patchwork, paired with knee-high boots. The interplay of patterns and textures was impeccably executed, creating a truly memorable ensemble.

Another standout piece was a black and white chevron dress with dramatically exaggerated structured shoulders, making a bold silhouette statement. Silver booties elevated the outfit with a touch of modern metallic flair, while a blue necklace added a subtle yet effective pop of color.

Diana Couture x Le Ciel Design

Diana Couture x Le Ciel Design presented what was perhaps my favorite show of the evening. The meticulous thought and effort invested in this collection were immediately apparent.

The line drew inspiration from Thailand, evident in the ornate brass finger claw nails, opulent gold accents, intricate embroidery, dazzling jewels, and elaborate headdresses.

A prominent theme throughout the collection was the concept of the warrior heroine or goddess, powerfully conveyed through dramatic wings, symbolic props, and flowing capes that exuded strength and grace.

Feminine empowerment was another central theme, beautifully expressed through the juxtaposition of sheer organza and delicate chiffon with structured and rigid silhouettes. This contrast created a mood of delicate beauty intertwined with an undeniable sense of inner strength and presence. The models’ deliberate and composed walks further emphasized this sense of calm, controlled power.

A subtle yet impactful detail that might have been overlooked was the collection’s color progression, beginning with black hues and culminating in pristine white. This transition seemed to narrate a story of transformation from darkness to light, or the triumph of good over adversity, adding a layer of narrative depth to the presentation.

The entire collection was breathtaking, making it challenging to select just a few favorites. However, if pressed, one standout piece would be the ivory organza cape adorned with intricate black web-like linear patterns. It was an absolute showstopper, commanding attention with its artistry and ethereal beauty.

Yet, the ultimate showstopper was undoubtedly the finale piece featuring magnificent gold wings. In a moment of theatrical magic, the model demonstrated the ability to control the wings’ opening and closing with a hidden button. The entire audience gasped audibly as the wings moved, creating a truly unforgettable and awe-inspiring spectacle. It was a perfect and impactful note on which to conclude the evening.