On Tuesday, twenty cutting-edge designers and much of LA’s fashion elite swarmed Club Topicana at historical Hotel Roosevelt to join Gen Art in kicking off Fashion Week with a bang. Hosted by former model and emerging style icon/former exotic dancer/Kanye West playmate Amber Rose, the “Alumni Reunion” celebration drew exceptionally attractive crowds to mingle, ogle, and imbibe – all while expertly maneuvering around the Roosevelt’s huge [and, admittedly, inviting] pool. Armed with a camera, a pair of fierce stilettos and Clint Catalyst, I headed into the belly of the fashion beast to explore.

Each of the featured designers was flanked by a model showcasing one of their creations, and we waded through the ocean of heels and hair to track them down, with much success.

 Jeffrey Sebelia’s red Jedi made a lasting impression with her sizable shades and crimson lips.

Clearly, she made papa proud.

My personal favorite of the evening, designer and former Project Runway contestant, Kit Scarbo.

Her model’s futuristic skin-tight power mesh and shoulder pad get-up was directly up my alley.

Rami Cashou’s creation was all class in sleek fitted black, with generous ruffles around the hem.

Freddie Rojas impressed with an asymmetrical cloud of gray chiffon. I’m terrified of prints being in this fall, but this piece gave me hope.

Elmer Ave’s equestrian construction towered and awed with leather saddle-like epaulets, plaid, and, much to my satisfaction, a corset.

Eduartdo Lucero with his leopard gangster.

One of my evening’s highlights was the arrival of Bobby Trendy – a dubious apparition in blue organza.

Now, a Model Appreciation Minute, with your hostess, Alison Gingerich.

Nicole Linkletter, winner of America’s Next Top Model.

So I have no idea who this guy on the left is. Still, I’m sure that we, as reasonable people, can agree that he is a model and should be appreciated.

Words and Photos by Zoe Ebb