An Evening Of Emerging Talent At Gen Art's "Fresh Faces In Fashion" - Stylehive

The folks at Gen Art have always had a knack for finding some of the best talent in fashion. In fact, designers like Zac Posen, Chaiken, Phillip Lim and Rebecca Taylor are all icons that have grown from the Gen Art name. So when their yearly "Fresh Faces in Fashion" event makes its way to San Francisco, swarms of the fashion elite flock to the Regency Center to see the emerging talent. Now in its 5th year in San Francisco, six designers presented their collections down a 60 foot gleaming white runway, while four accessories designers showcased their talent at the event's after-party. I had the joy of sitting front row at the event (and by the way, I was sitting right across from Kara Saun from "Project Runway" season one). From mediocre models and "been there done that" detailing to gorgeous gowns and thoughtful design, I got to see every stitch and sew up close and personal.

Christopher Collins' collection was first to hit the runway with a modest mix of pants, ruffles and dresses that remained classic by ways of a neutral color palette with a dash of lush greens.

Serial Cultura by Jennifer Jennings took her love for textiles and sent down M.I.A.-esque garments with structured silhouettes and printed geometric shapes €“ the pleated triangle dress was the eye catcher.

Menswear label uba by Rajesh Anandan gave us utilitarian garb of combat. Men stomped down the runway in strap-happy jackets and "cargo optional" pants. And by "cargo optional," I mean the pockets were optional. As each hunky male model reached the end of the runway, they ripped their pockets off. The crowd went wild. The model smiled. And this was repeated about 10 times.

OdileOdette gave us their "Hollyhock" collection which was inspired by the hollyhock flower and Frank Lloyd Wright's Hollyhock House. The retro collection of red buttons and sustainable fabrics would make Kenley from "Project Runway" smile €“ and it's up to you if you want that to be a good or bad thing.

Sofie Olgaard blended the sophistication of "The Great Gatsby" with the disco glamour of the 1970's to create a beautifully minimalist collection of jumpsuits, effortless skirts and sensible separates that were simple, but thoughtfully executed.

But it was Louisa Parris' collection inspired by artists Piet Mondrian and Josef Albers and textile guru Sonia Delaunay that stole the show. The georgette and chiffon gowns floated down the runway with delicate ease. Imprinted with blocks of color and perfectly offbeat silhouettes and cuts, the gorgeous gowns moved with the grace of an alluring Greek siren.