BrandHabit: Poolside Soirée

by Carlina Harris

The sky was blue, the weather about 70 degrees. The atmosphere was abuzz with fashion centric personalities on a roof top terrace, awaiting a much anticipated fashion show at famed Santana Row. It was the 2nd Annual Poolside Soirée, and it was bound to be a hot one!

Pre-show there were tons of chic boutiques hawking their wares. Two bars were set up to quench the thirst of the energetic patrons, while smartwater and vitamin-water stations were available for the designated driver as well. The mini hors d'oeuvres section satiated my date's appetite while holding us over for dinner. Pretty much, even before the fashion's commenced, the mood was set to a pleasant one.

I fluttered around to grab some bubbly, nibbled on goodies at the raw bar, and secured a pair of the last two available seats all right before the show began! I was lucky enough to get a chair under a shaded area- lots of attendees sitting directly under the sun seemed not to pleased with their uneven crimson tan lines materializing.

The show started with two poster showcasing waifs appearing from behind sheer panels, wearing platinum bobs, and one of the sexiest white cut-out dresses I've ever seen, sadly I don't think the designer that produced this vision in white was ever named.

Anne Fontaine opened the show--I remember last fall liking her collection of exaggerated shoulders. This time around she got rid of the shoulder pads, and brought out the stripes. I noticed a lot of spring-y looks, it was all very preppy.

My must haves included: Anthropologie for their great summery dresses; The Blue Jeans Bar for the adorable Minnie Mouse-esqe headband bows, paired with motorcycle jeans; Hlaska for the great leather travel bags, perfect to tote through Italy; Boutique Harajuku for the silky hareem pants, and flowy dresses (no one does flowy better than Gwen); and lastly Pink Stripes for the parasol styled, barefoot models rocking Hello Kitty bags!

The boys definitely had their moment too! Franco Uomo showed us all how real men should dress, in impeccably tailored suits. Brooks Brothers showcased great relaxed looks, a favorite was the men's madras shorts! While Eli Thomas had quite the Usher feel to it, the gentlemen in this show worked the fedora's, silk ties, contrasting cuffed shirts, popped collars, and suit jackets.

Of course the show had to end on a glam note. The newest boutique on the Row- Priscilla of Boston showcased it's Spring/Summer collection. This bridal atelier turned out gown after ethereal gown encrusted in crystals and tulle, each confection had its very own je ne se qua.

This show was even better than the last one I attended at this venue, the models were fierce, the clothes were stylish, and midways through the show there was even a synchronized swim! I had a grand time!