Last week, fashiongoers and art collectors met on the runway for one of Seattle’s most anticipated events, The 28th Annual Nordstrom Designer Preview Show. Nordstrom and SAM collaborate to showcase some of the top designers around the world. Proceeds from the ticket sales will support the Seattle Art Museum’s Pop Departures, which opens October 9,2014 and features pieces form American Pop Art in the 1960s, such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. I look forward to this exhibit because its will be something my whole family will enjoy!
Gucci soft leather platforms
Exhilarating, dynamic and chic are just a few words to describe this sold-out, exclusive event. The industrial space at the Smith Cove Event Center on Pier 91 was transformed into a “Pop Party,” with shopping booths set up for the fashion A-list. Some of my favorite items for purchase were these gorgeous Gucci soft Leopard platforms and a mini Valentino “Rockstud” clutch!
Shipping containers served as “pop up” boutiques, while appetizers and cocktails were passed and high energy music by New York-based DJ Javier Peral played in the background. Seattleites did not disappoint; they shed their fleece and North Face coats for gorgeous Stella McCartney suits, Chanel, Valentino and Mary Katranzou.
Annual attendee Rose Dennis wearing Chanel with her daughter Alexandra
Haeson Lee in Mary Katranzou
The People Behind the Scenes
At the party, I had the pleasure of meeting three ladies without whom this event could not have happened. SAM’s President, Jaennae Dinus, so bubbly and warm, stunned in a long sleek black dress. “It gives her great pride to be a part of this event,” she said. “Since its inception in 1985, SAM has raised nearly 6 million dollars to fund selected SAM projects including exhibitions, capital campaigns, arts education, museum publications, public transportation for school age children and endowment funds.”
Heather Baker, Jaennae Dinus, yours truly, Heather Battaglia
Heather Battaglia and Heather Baker co-chaired the event. Baker, who dazzled in a nude toned frock, has been a long-time supporter of SAM and has served on the committee for several years. Battaglia, dressed in amazing Chanel Reaction Boots and an impeccable Chanel Blazer (to the right) said she was “thrilled to be co-chairing the event.” She added, “I have great respect for each designer’s creativity and the craftsmanship of their ateliers. Equally exhilarating is to see how individuals of all ages and cultures wear a piece of a collection or translate a current fashion trend into their own look—a unique from of personal expression.”
The Show
Mod styling at the Nordstrom Designer Preview show 2014
With high anticipation, guests moved to their seats and International Fashion Week took over the runway with a “Pop Art” background and loud, thumping music. European and American Designers who shared partial collections included Dries Van Noten, Christian Dior, Michael Kors, Gucci, Akris, Stella McCartney, Dolce & Gabanna and, my favorite, Valentino.
The models had a 60s vibe updated with a sophisticated punk approach: messy beehive up-dos and sleek swept over bangs. Double winged eye liner was provided by MAC Cosmetics.
Some of the trends on the catwalk for Fall 2014 are Exotic furs, oversized coats (think volume and dimension) and 70s glam, with bold pop-art prints adorning sweaters and skirts. A trend I personally welcome was an abundance of flat and square-heeled boots that will give my feet a break from the lofty heels of seasons past. For more on fashion trends in the show, go to Vanguard’s coverage by Lisa Cole.
Guests wearing Stella McCartney and Chanel at Nordstrom’s Designer Preview 2014
Well-heeled: the crowd at the front row of the runway show
Fresh bites and fresh air at the pier for the Nordstrom Designer Preview 2014
The Goodbyes
After the show, guests headed back over to pre-order items that captured their attention. The large doors opened and the crowd welcomed a cool Seattle breeze. Two food trucks delivered dessert for all and tantalized taste buds with delish crepes and homemade donuts. A good time was had by all, while raising $190,000. There was no question this evening was a success and I look forward to the exhibition it supported and Designer Previews in years to come.
Photography by Jed Sarmiento.
