It’s the most wonderful time of the year: Fashion Week in New York City. On February 6th I had the privilege to enter into a world of trend and couture presented by UsaFashionShow. The champagne brunch was held at the elegant Jimmy Sung Restaurant located in Midtown Manhattan. The event showcased numerous international designers such as Lourdes Atencio Libman and Dress by Andres, as well as fine furs and accessories by Peter Duffy. Yet the standouts from the show were Irene Munger’s Blackpool and K*Claudene’s jewelry.

The industrial city of Blackpool in England became the inspiration for Irene’s label. Her 2005/2006 collection entitled, “Twilight,” highlights her aesthetic talent for simple lines, practical wear and metallic colors that shimmer off the body. Munger attributes her motivation for her newest line to “the magical moment between dusk and dark, when the night begins to cover the day, giving every object new form and color.” After receiving her degree in 2001 from The University of Art and Design Zurich in Switzerland, Irene lived in New York for a year working for fashion designers Isabel and Ruben Toledo.

K*Claudene	K*Claudene

Yet today’s show proved that Irene is stepping into her own with her use of deep gold, blues and rust along with other metallic hues that accompany her pocket dresses, antique tops and hats. Canvas, brocade, and silk are emphasized in this collection along with delicate leather. Each garment is hand sewn in her studio in Switzerland and even though the pieces are elegantly woven, they can be worn everyday, making her collection as versatile as her vision.

Blackpool	Lourdes Atencio Libman

Krista Claudene’s collection K*Claudene, featured rare beads, gemstone and pearls. The amazing aspect about the line is the length and resourcefulness of her necklaces. Some pieces of Krista’s intricate jewelry collection reached down to the midriff of the models, making it the perfect piece for a plunging neckline. Turquoise, amber, red, white and black stones showing that the K*Claudene collection does not fear color. Some necklaces started around the neck, but were then strung over the shoulder proving that her jewelry is more than an accent to an outfit, but the focal point. Clothes take a back seat to her aesthetic aptitude, making her jewelry an essential accessory for those who wish to blaze a path into the future of fashion.

Andres

The Champagne Brunch and Runway Show series continues from March till late August. Please check out UsaFashionShow’s website at www.usafashionshows.com. It is one of the only fashion shows in New York City where you can buy the designs right off the runway. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to shop for the latest look before they reach the windows of Sax Fifth Avenue.

Irene Munger’s website is www.blackpool.ch. For all other designers and information, please email info@usafashionshows.com.