Aline media has also tied up with several sponsors to provide the girls with tools to make this shoot the best. Make up/hair was sponsored by Tony & Guy School, the gowns and shoes by Tony Bowls and Carraz of Glendale Galleria. There was even a live dj and a gourmet food truck Holy Aioli at this venue. I was thoroughly impressed.

Kara guides me though the space. Two huge studio rooms with six photo stations set up. There is a team of 12-14 skilled photographers running the shoot. Each girl has a name card, which acquires her slot to shoot once they are ready. It’s like an assembly line of fashion shoot production! Tony & Guy fashion students all decked out in black, preening models. Such an event is networking at its best. Jason Peskin, Director of Project Ethos strolls in to check out the shoot. His LA fashion week event is at the House of Blues this year; Runway Icon will be covering his event.

The main goal for the team of photographers at each station is to bring out the beauty of each girl, while giving her a set of images that could be used in her portfolio. The team at Runway Icon works best at fashion shoots, the photographers really know how to make the models feel comfortable. Met the radiant Courtney Hughes (www.chasethecrown.com) who is an official recruiter for beauty pageants. She really worked hard with the girls helping them and coaching them through their shoots. I thought her company name “Chase the Crown” was endearing.

I spot Raphael walking round coaching his protégés, he runs a tight ship. Runway Icon is fast leading the fashion photography industry. Raphael Maglonzo, along with AC, has been developing upcoming talent. They go beyond the particulars of photography and teach the art of ‘attention to detail’ by fixing dresses and locks of hair. They spend the day coaching the girls through their time slot, trying to get the best shots. Tony Bowls sponsored gowns of all shapes and styles, their dressers are so helpful. Each girl is meticulously pinned, clipped and taped from behind, giving her favorite dress a perfect fit.

I am formally introduced to Kenn Henmann, CEO of Aline Media and mastermind of this fashion shoot. He is so warm and engaging. “This really is what I love to do. I’m in such a zone”. One can sense his intensity of concentration. He meanders off to tend to matters. I also have the pleasure of meeting the crew from E entertainment Gretchen and Jerry. They are there to cover the event and interview some of the candidates for the upcoming Miss California pageant.

I manage to get a few words in with one of the volunteers – the charming Carmela Mondello, who is running for the Miss California pageant was there all day helping out. I spot Arnold of RI Team, having a great time. He shares with me “The newbie models are a kind of challenge but my favorite thing about events like these is shooting. I love the challenge”.

I float around the room observing huddles of fashionistas, preening and prepping for their shoot. I love the energy created by the thumping hip hop and house music. Young hopefuls accompanied by their guardians, aspiring models, Miss California candidates and title-holders. I love the girls with their pageant finery, vying for their moment with the camera and E Entertainment.

I am dying to chat with the incredible team of students from the Tony & Guy South Coast Plaza facilities. I introduce myself to Josha Marziolo who is the Director of this academy. He has a vast experience in shoots like this, he shares: “This is just another day in the office for me. I do think this event is well organized though, and I feel the good energy flowing. Such an event in comparable to the Super Bowl for my students, it’s satisfying to watch them grow like this. It’s just a lot of team work, man.” (chuckles). I then meet Michael Lawrence, the education director of the academy. Michael has done numerous events like this in his ten years of experience. He oozes charisma and confidence. After all he just won Make-Up Artist of the Year at the Photographic Awards. They give me a tour around all the stations to show how each student works with the models. I chat with student Jaren Scotto. I pry a little, as he has an intriguing story. He was in the army infantry for five years. The entirely different environment is what swayed him to jump professions. He would rather be around the “Music, air conditioning and ladies!” Jaren aspires to be salon owner one day. I love that this event is an alliance of such an infinite pool of talent.

Two friends very dear to Runway Icon and Raphael play an integral part in this event today: Peter Phang Young of INTA gems and master photographer Capeto Argaez . The vivacious Mr. Young is bursting with high energy. He is the official crown sponsor for Miss California and Miss Teen California . His family has owned their precious gem business in the city for over thirty-five years. His parents Jerry and Connie Young have been sponsoring the contest for six years now. Peter loves “Watching the growth of the contestants and contributing to their dreams”. His future plans are to develop a fine jewelry line catered specifically for pageantry. Capeto flew in from Colombia just for this shoot with dear friend Raphael. He “Loves the dynamic environment and is really looking forward to being here though fashion week.”

12 noon. The second round of girls anxiously files into the studio. The Runway Icon team shows no signs of fatigue. I spot them taking pictures of each other in their down time, perfecting the lighting and camera settings. The system is fine-tuned by this point. The rotations of models are timed to perfection. We take turns breaking for lunch. Holy Aoili, the gourmet food truck, provides heavenly food to our hungry crew. The general mood is one of excitement. This format of shoot is ideal for a lot of first time models. This large-scale shoot provides for a nominal fee along with the coaching and assistance that is provided is an A line Media seamless event.

2pm. Lunch is eaten between shots.After each round of shots, the beaming photographers proudly pose with the model. Little tokens and memories of their hard work all day! These go into the “fans album” on their constant Facebook updates.

Aline Media also brought in stylists to assist with the models. I was able to catch a few words with stylist and personal shopper, Manuel Jackson. He was here to talk to contestants about style and help pick out dresses for the shoot. It was interesting to learn that he also owns and operates a gentleman style house. He “Acts as a liaison between pr/media outlets and personal styling. I am seven months into business. ” Check him out at Ekquality Style Hause: Every King’s quality.

3pm. Raphael is bobbing his head to the blaring music as he oversees the production. Photographers are now getting some outdoor shots in with the light slowly softening. The buzz has not died down yet, a fresh group of girls are ready to shoot now. The empty couches in the studio are occupied by parents and supporters. I am enthralled by the collaboration and the flawless production on this scale.

4pm. Things are winding down slowly. The gowns are being stowed away and the rolling racks slowly disassembled. The T & G team eagerly taking group pictures whilst packing down. Seventy aspiring models leave this event today with a variety of amazing images that they can use in their portfolios. Smiles seem to grace everyone from this intensive but exhilarating day. I watch how Runway Icon, the common thread to all parties present, orchestrates a mega fashion shoot with such success. It’s always rewarding to see such success in collaborations. The studio is all packed away and equipment boxed up. Our convoys of cars drive to The Palms restaurant. The laughter is loud and the food exquisite. This is a mega house of talent at the table, signing off from the beautiful day at Beachwood.

~AmbiKa “B” Sanjana

The concept of Doctrine is based on the fundamentals of its very definition. A doctrine is something learned or taught…this company was built on the foundation of its members’ superfluity of fashion industry experience. Individuals bring their knowledge into a collaboration to produce a quality LA made denim.

The models of the Doctrine runway show had a wide variety of styles based on the basic denim. But coupling those with blazers and blouses made the outfits widely different. They represented a casual and yet oh so chic look.

Doctrine produced denims designed by the endearing Teresa Sung. Her focus is making a clean fit and really emphasizing on the washes. She does a lot of experimentation with weights but focuses on a scale of 8 1/2 oz -12oz for this Fall/Winter 2001 range. The denim used for making this collection is Egyptian cotton; says Teresa “This denim makes Doctrine jeans much softer than most jean brands out there!”

Stylists and female celebrity mentionables eagerly anticipated their Women’s collection presented at LA Fashion Week. The audience was very receptive and showed great appreciation for the pieces presented on the runway. The models were styled in earth tones and messy undoes which highlighted the jeans flawlessly. We loved how dangerously low some waistlines went, a perfect summer accent. The variety was spectacular as there was a type of style to fit numerous body types and wash requirements. Even though there was a broad range of fits and washes, this season’s signature looks featured slim jeans, gaucho pants and capris.

Doctrine’s jeans all have a unique but subtle signature back pocket detail, which is derived from their logo. The understated arrow logo detail is very distinctive. The collection that was presented at LA fashion week was classy & sophisticated. The price range for a pair of Doctrine Denims is competitive $165-$215 and can be found currently at Saks, Bloomingdales, Harvey Nichols and various locations in Las Vegas.

Article by AmbiKa “B” Sanjana

Seth was an absolute pleasure to interview. His passion and creativity just permeated through. In spite of the fame and recognition he has got after winning Project Runway Season 7, he is modest and well grounded. He expressed how he has been crazy about clothes since he was a little boy. He shared memories of how he learnt how to press his pants at the age of 8, pick his own outfits and how he would want to go shopping. He is fascinated by the construction of garments. The defined silhouettes and precise fit of these pieces in SA MOD told the story of Seth’s experience and training. He said “ I wanted to create a ready to wear collection, that resembled the 40’s-60’s style, just reinvented to make them relevant now”. He expressed his love for big cities and couture, how he wanted to create wearable garments that screamed couture. A few of these pieces are available already under the label: Seth Aaron at Anne Bocci Boutique, Portland.

Seth conceptualized this collection as a ready to wear collection that resembled couture. He wanted to “Bring couture to the high streets whilst making it wearable and affordable.” The product was classy and sophisticated. We appreciated how he styled each outfit on the runway with the uniform style of shoes, which kept audience focused on garments. The use of leather, bold accessories and his trademark mock rock/military style captivated all spectators at Avalon that night. He concluded our talk by saying “It was a huge pleasure to work with and support a cause like Ethos, which gives young designers such a great podium to present their trade. The level of professionalism was one I am used to and enjoy working with. I am done designing this collection, and now it is ready for production. I enjoy and look forward to hearing feedback from fashion forward audiences”. Seth will be working on his Spring/Summer 2012 designs at his studio in Portland over the next few months. He looks forward to taking some time off soon to relax in his new home in Washington. We all await his new designs and hope to see him back in Los Angeles soon.

Article by AmbiKa “B” Sanjana

Fashion journalists, publicists and PR heavyweights rushed to the well organized check–in to get their credentials and seating accommodations finalized. Mikey Koffman, producer of this event, oversaw the entire area and put final touches on every detail just before doors opened. She embodied the very essence of kitschy-fashionable…buttoned down crisp white shirt, funky bowtie, chucks, gray skinny jeans and cut off gloves. Her short blond hair, tatted sleeves on both arms and sunglasses oozed confidence in a very rock star way!

Tons of celebs and fashion royalty started to pour in and assumed their positions on the red carpet. We spotted the Quest Crew, Ron Jeremy and many others. The rainy dark skies lit up with the flashes of paparazzi, like bursts of lightning. The lounge area inside the tent had an open bar and was animated with high energy. Everyone seemed eager to see the line up of designers for the night: Biatta, Z brand, Nicole Lee, Nuvula, Civil Society and Dina Bar-El.

Biatta started the show off with a sexy lingerie line. The angelic models displayed a flirty, romantic look with loose curls and the perfect red lip accent. Z brand was up next with a contemporary men’s street wear line. We saw lots of cargo pants, hoodies, checkered shirts and basic jeans. Nicole Lee took the stage next with a line of purses, totes and satchels. The minimal styling of the models perfectly accented the accessories. We loved the chic undoes and sunglass look. Nuvula’s presentation was our personal favorite. Their garments were so creative that seemed like they just came straight from the imagination onto the catwalk. Nuvula had very edgy designs with exaggerated elements which were still wearable. Civil Society opened their show with the most adorable kid who simply won our hearts as he strutted down the runway throwing up an “LA” sign. The line presented was very trendy and chic, with the use of leather, vests, skinny ties and skinny jeans. The male models all displayed the perfect amount of class and oomph! Dina Bar-El showcased her fantastic couture line of gowns/cocktail dresses next. Each dress portrayed elegance with graceful fabrics and defined silhouettes. Her use of bright hues like orange, red, teal and fuchsia really added that dramatic and beautiful end to the show.

Mikey was the mastermind behind this brilliant affair. When we asked her what her expectations were for the next 5 years she promptly replied “Rockin n Rollin, making this like a hundred times bigger and better!!!” Her foresight and perseverance were some of the essential ingredients for this seamless event.

Article by AmbiKa “B” Sanjana
Photography Raphael Maglonzo, Geoff Sam, Arnold Panganiban, Je Potski
Videography AC

Biatta Intimates Collection

Nuvula Collection

Dina Bar-El Collection

Denim of Virtue

Adiktion

Laguna Beach Jean Co.

Doctrine Jeans

Z Brand

Nicole Lee USA

Civil Society Clothing

XCVI Fall Collection

The top floors of the Bardot lounge looked mesmerizing, decorated with paintings/photographs showcasing a surfeit of new talent. The tier of balcony’s and private VIP terraces overlooked the grandiose center stage where seven upcoming designers showcased their new collections. As anticipated from the success of all their previous shows, Jason Peskin, Executive Director of Ethos, is known for booking the best entertainment. Robonists and Yolanda Be Cool rocked the night with their tunes.

The show was kick started by vivacious host Cham Nou, with the Vitamin Water Zero Flavor Fashionista Challenge. Each Designer was challenged to design a garment in their individual style, inspired by a specific flavor & color of Vita Zero. It was an audience choice award and the winner was determined through a text vote poll. This was such a relevant challenge and the prize offered for the young designer was a generous $3000. Designer Renata J won this challenge with her design for Vita Zero flavor XXX. Her dress that won the maximum votes was her red one-shoulder shaded maxi dress with exaggerated rosette detailing & embellishment.

The show unfolded into a fascinating mélange of styles that each designer presented for their Spring/Summer collections. The line up for the night was: Fredrick’s of Hollywood Swimwear, Melissa VeliaReneta J, Age of Aquarius, Ermelinda Manos, Dominique Ansari and Seth Aaron Henderson. Designer Melissa Velia had the most prominent start to show. A ballerina arabesqued down the runway doing an interpretation of the Black Swan. The model ballerina was styled with a theatrical bow shaped hairdo and wore dramatic black pointe shoes. Fredrick’s of Hollywood Swimwear models used beach ball props that they tossed out into the audience. Most of the music used on the runway was electronic mixes of contemporary top 40 music. Age of Aquarius definitely switched the pace and set a cool mood using old school hip-hop tracks. The retro refined velour jumpsuit in bold shade of aborigine & antique buttons stood out in this collection. Dominique Ansari and Reneta J played it safe with neutral colors and pastel ensembles. There were a lot of asymmetrical silhouettes and dresses with use of ruching and appliqué.

Designers Ermelinda Manos and Project Runway Winner Seth Aaron Henderson really stood out with their distinctive collections. Ironically both collections were inspired by 50’s-60’s military look but each designer had such a polarity in the way they showcased this style.

I caught up with beautiful Ermelinda backstage, radiating exhilaration after her successful show. This Vegas based designer has been making clothes since she can remember. She shared with me that she was experimenting with the “hippy reflex” look in this collection as she celebrated a strong independent look. Her use of lace, raw silks and net in this summery dress collection was exquisite. Flowing silhouettes and flirty hemlines strongly identified the youthful nature of Linda. Her entire collection was wearable and had great marketability. Her design sense permeated through the styling of her models as they sashayed down the runway to a mix of French vocal music. I like how the opening garment of her show as well as the finale, were variations of the same composition and shared sheer accents. The finale dress was a stunning floor length maxi with décolleté that elegantly revealed the model’s back and shoulders. Runway still maintains that Ermelinda is a force to be reckoned with.

Project Runway Winner Seth Aaron debuted his SA MOD line to close the show. He stayed with his signature hues of black, white and red only adding nuances of purple to complete this brilliantly crafted collection. Seth was such a vibrant bundle of energy when we talked. He came across as a humble & driven designer. His entire SA MOD collection was created to perfection in just 11 days. The defined silhouettes and precise fit of these structured garments told the story of Seth’s experience and training. He said “ I wanted to create a ready to wear collection, that resembled the 40’s-60’s style (i.e.: a 50’s cocktail dress deconstructed), just reinvented to make them relevant now”. A few of these pieces are available already under the label: Seth Aaron.

Seth’s attention to detail and flare for couture intermixed well and the product was a classy contemporary ready to wear collection! He styled the outfits to a uniform style of shoe, a clever trick designers use to keep focus on just garments. His use of herringbone really spiced up the runway in audacious cocktail dresses. The use of leather, bold accessories and his trademark rocker-military style captivated all spectators at Avalon that night. He concluded by saying “It was such a pleasure to work with and support a cause like Ethos which gives young designers such a great podium to present their trade. The level of professionalism was one I am used to and enjoy working with. I am done with this collection, and now its ready for production. It’s always humbling to hear feedback from fashion forward audiences”. Seth leaves back for Portland next week to go back to the drawing board at his studio. He will be taking some time off soon to relax in his newly purchased home in Washington. He expressed his love for this city, and hopes to set up a workshop here in LA soon.

The after party continued into the wee hours of the morning. The air was abuzz with musicians, models, stylists, press, celebrities, artists and a bevy of Hollywood fashion royalty. Ethos orchestrates such a brilliant platform for all these art forms to integrate. Events like Carpe Diem, build a network for aspiring and upcoming designers to launch their labels. Ethos continually manages to put on premium productions and event,s while still giving each designer a launching pad to start making their LA dreams come true.

Ethos has done it again! I left the venue charged and inspired. The echoes of lively laughter and the up-tempo thump of house music trickled onto the Blvd., parking lots aflurry with rolling racks and labeled collections. Excited buyers compared gifts from their swag bags whilst handing out cards to persistent publicists. We seized the night and kicked off the start to another LA Fashion Week.

Article by AmbiKa “B” Sanjana
Photography Raphael Maglonzo
Videography AC

The quest of adding a hot new line to the LA fashion scene began when Ambika and Valerie collaborated their styles, ideas, and aspirations for creating a clothing line unlike any other. Their love of fashion and their mutual frustration that Western clothing did not incorporate enough cultural influences, particularly of their own Indian/Moroccan descents brought these two girls together to fill this fashion void.

This Moroccan and Indian united clothing line is geared to the needs of a refined bohemian, the feminine, active woman that is comfortable yet chic. No matter how unique and exotic the design is, their main focus is to combine cultural heritage with a bit of an urban twist. Taking the ethnic elements of clothing (beautiful yet rarely seen) and mixing them with the traditional Western style is something they feel is fashion-relevant right now. Most importantly, the designers of B. Vika want women to understand and embrace the diversity and differences within, to be proud of who they are and where they come from.

Though many designers motivate and inspire them in creating these one of a kind pieces, two designers top them all, Manish Arora and Louis Vuitton. Manish Arora is a kitschy designer from India who has made a huge impact in the International market. He has a very bold fashion-forward style that also combines Indian styles/patterns with Western influence. His style of fusion is very inspirational to them. Louis Vuitton has a business model that has built the brand into one that is timeless and classic. It symbolizes much more than fashion today, more lifestyle and luxury. This is definitely a direction B.Vika wants to go.

B. Vika has launched two collections thus far: “Maroc Mor” & “Soleil Maharani.” Both lines incorporate a lot of high end elements, fabrics, and motifs that are very symbiotic and cultural to their heritage. The girls launched their “Soleil Maharani” S/S 2011 resort wear collection recently at Los Angeles Fashion Week. With an incredible response and astounding feedback to their new collection, they have steadily carved a special niche for themselves in the fashion world.

My favorite of the B. Vika collections is the “Soleil Maharani” which translates to “Sun Queen”. There are tons of glamorous bikinis inspired by the peacock and its many different symbolic meanings. The attention to details with all the hanging charms and embellishments really stands out. Their garments have a unique blend of Moroccan and Indian styles featuring detailed embroidery, handcrafted embellishments, and luxurious textures. The peacock is an ancient motif in many cultures throughout the world. The two peacocks facing each other found on the designs stands for unity and amity, both representing the longevity of friendship between the co-founders Ambika and Valerie.

I had the pleasure of attending a few of their fashion shows and was absolutely amazed. My favorites are the cute casual pull over jackets (Maroc Mor collection) depicting some of the most beautiful styles and bright colors I have ever seen. Each design is different with its own significance and the amount of detail put into each of these garments is one thing designers could definitely learn from these girls.

I had the pleasure of interviewing the beautiful and talented Ambika & Valerie. When I asked what they want people to remember when they think of the line they reiterated the importance of their message to consumers, “We want people to embrace our diversity and to love the differences within each other. When they think of our line we want them to remember our exotic brilliance and unique style of our brand.” Everyone is different and should be proud of their heritage no matter what. If you are a B Vika consumer, you are reminded of that every time you put on their unique pieces. I anxiously await the latest collections B.Vika has to offer.

Article by Elsa Sheikhpour
Photography by AC, Arnold Panganiban and Raphael Maglonzo
Models: Ellesse Jordan Tzinberg and Elizabeth Haley

I spend the majority of my time in the morning in my closet. I love fashion; I often dazzle at the wonderful creations of Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Gucci, and the list goes on. Everybody I believe has their favorite fashion designer, simply because they might like the way the clothes fit, or the material, or even the eccentric designs the artist may use. Shopping with friends I realized everyone has their own opinion on style and what is fashionable. Sometimes we might find a top and wish the designer added sequins, or extra buttons, or made it in a different color, but unfortunately we either must settle, or keep searching for the perfect top. Fashion designer Ermelinda Manos does not settle, she gets inspired and goes straight to work.

I met the fabulous Ermelinda Manos. An innovative upcoming fashion designer, who growing up took one look at Valentino and Channel and knew fashion was her true calling. As a child Manos would always play dress up in her mother’s clothes. What made her excursions through her mother’s closet so different from the average little girl was her keen eye for fashion. Manos had expensive taste, taking her mother’s designer dresses and altering them to fit her. As she got older, her love for fashion never faded. After high school, she knew enrolling in a fashion institute was the right career path for her. Soon she began to intern for various designers and began to get a taste of the fashion world in action. However, she soon learned that being in someone else’s shadow and watching them call the big shots was not enough. The job added to her desire of one day designing her very-own line. With her families support, at 24 Ermelinda Manos launched her own line.

Our team at Runway Icon was the first to get an inside look at her 2010 Fall Collection, inspired by 50’s glam. Manos presented a wide range of styles, from long evening gowns to beautifully crafted silk tops. This fall lines collection consisted of a lot of beautiful animal print. One of my favorite pieces was a long brown empire waste gown with subtle pieces of animal print worn by model Gretchen Camrath.  The dress was designed in a way that accentuates every curve and falls very gracefully. After wearing the dress Camrath was amazed, “This dress is so comfortable and it feels so good.” While modeling the dress, Camrath definitely got the attention of pedestrians, a couple people stopped and made sure to get the designers name. Manos very humbly took the credit and shifted the attention towards the models. In the midst of all this action, like a true fashion designer, Ermelinda Manos was inspired for next seasons Fashion line. You go girl!

If you are not a big fan of animal print, not to worry, her other pieces are simply stunning.  Her line is very comfortable and elegant, bringing back the 50’s and adding a little more modern flavor with a hint of sexy. Model Sheida Sheikhpour wore a very flattering sequenced dress. Ladies, this Little Black Dress (LBD) is perfect for every occasion!  It is sexy and form fitting but still very comfortable. Sheikhpour did not want to take the dress off, she was quick to say, “I love this dress! Ermelinda is so talented; I want to take home her whole line. I wear one and want it and then wear another piece and want that one too. This is dangerous. ” Her simple, yet glamorous pieces further prove Manos knows style. If you need an eye catching design, Ermelinda Manos is the perfect designer.

As a designer, Manos gets her inspiration from all parts of the world. Being of Albanian descent and growing up in Greece allowed her to become very familiar with European fashion. In her interview Manos claimed, “I am European. I love curves. We all love curves. I think that’s true beauty. In Europe that’s a real woman and that’s how I grew up.” Her fall line definitely has hints of European infused with American fashion. Her diverse cultural background is reflected on her style and the designs she creates. One of the most important things for Manos was making sure her fashion is for every woman, no matter what height, shape, or size.  During her interview Manos said, “Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. I want to be the designer to accentuate that beauty and make a woman feel beautiful.”  After seeing her fall collection, I am certain Ermelinda Manos has the talent to go far in the fashion industry.  At the age of 24, Manos is one step closer to conquering the fashion industry. Her young age, her diverse cultural background, and her unique style make Manos a force to be reckoned with.

Article by Elsa Sheikhpour

Photography by Arnold Panganiban, Al Fua & AC

Opening the show with a James Bond-inspired routine, SU’s Joshua James entered the stage and proudly displayed the latest edition of SU Magazine. After a few opening words from Mr. James, everyone were treated to the hottest releases from performers Ray J, Official Hot Mess, Kevin Rudolf and many others.
There were two fashion shows from Bessie’s Boutique and Young & Reckless fashion lines. Celebrity models included Amanda David of Model Latina, Deal or No Deal’s Patricia Kara, actress, model and fashion designer Lauren Elaine, SU’s Supermodel of the Year Maiya Gerde, SU’s fabulous cover girls, and many of SU’s rising stars. Jade Cole from America’s Next Top Model also made a surprise appearance on the runway.

Some of the notable guests included Denzel Whitaker, Fabio, KD Aubert, Caite Upton (The Amazing Race), the stars from Gossip Girl, the entire cast of Victorious, producer Dan Schneider and many others. SU’s Editor Kimberly Lawrence, as well as the rest of the SU team worked tirelessly and successfully in putting together one of the most memorable events during the LA Fashion Week.

Shortly after the event, Ms. Justice tweeted “Such a fun night!!! Ahhh I’m so happy! I have such awesome friends. And my mom’s the coolest. Good night all around :{)” Congratulations on 10 amazing years, SU! Runway Icon celebrates with you and we wish you much more success in the future!

Article by Joel Dellosa
Photography by Joel Dellosa, AC and Romeo Joy Manalang

Click to view Runway Icon Photography Slide Show

The few girls I was able to have quick conversations with all seem so intelligent and very focused on capturing my crown. I know I will be crowning an incredible individual on November 21st, 2010! The road to Palm Springs will be fun filled and I cannot wait to see what is done with the addition of Facebook votes and an online portal for each contestant!! This is the largest state pageant to be held within the history of the Miss Universe Organization! What an incredible feat, girls you should feel so blessed to be part of such a ground breaking year!! Take it all in and enjoy every second of the pageant!

Good Luck to all Contestants over the coming weeks and I look forward to seeing you all on November 19th!

Best Wishes,

Nicole Johnson

Molly B is a born and bred Southern California girl with a compulsive love for everything bikinis.  This love of bikinis was first recognized during Middle and High School where Molly B had a different bikini for each activity or situation she participated in.  She maintains that each girl should have a bikini collection similar to that of their purses and shoes.  Her collections are very representative of the life she has spent at the beach and are made to get wet!  Molly B’s intent is to make quality bikinis that can be worn trekking through the rain forest, jumping off a cliff, or sitting on an old dock.  She understands that an active lifestyle demands a quality bikini that can keep up.

Molly B is currently debuting her 2011 line which is inspired by the nostalgic beach lifestyle of 1970′s California.  A time where surf sessions, barbeques and bonfires lasted well into the summer night.  A time where a bikini had to stay on and perform for an entire day full of activities.  As the world gets smaller and technology gets faster, Molly B encourages women around the world to slow down.  Water is the life to our planet, and Molly B girls can be spotted on all different types of coastlines embracing each drop.

For more information, check out www.mollybbikinis.com or simply drop by the Molly B design studio at 4966 Santa Monica Ave Suite E San Diego, CA 92107.

Article: Joel Dellosa
MUA/hair: Alan Robinson & Stacy Canaris
Models: Lisa Razzoq & Stacy Canaris
Photographer: Joel Dellosa