This weekend I was invited to attend El Paseo Fashion Week in Palm Desert. I went last year and had SUCH a fun time that my husband and I are making it a tradition to attend annually now. I missed opening night last year so it was a treat to get dressed up and get a front row seat to all of the fashion/action. I brought a few different dresses with me and I’m so glad I went with the dressier option. People were dressed to the nines and some women even wore full length gowns!

We arrived early for the cocktail reception and just as I was about to go in to grab my spot in the media section, I realized I had left my camera’s battery STILL PLUGGED IN charging at the hotel. We scoured the place for ANYONE who shoots with a Nikon to see if anyone had an extra battery available and EVERY single person had a Cannon. So after having a major minor panic attack, I thanked my lucky stars that I had a full battery on my iphone and made the best of it. The tenth anniversary celebration kicked off with eight designers but my top three faves were Anthony Franco, Eduardo Lucero and Oliver Tolentino.

There was a major buzz in the room as soon as the Anthony Franco collection started down the runway. There was a boxing theme throughout but what caught my eye were the beautiful prints and stunning chic suits.

The Eduardo Lucero collection had a bit of a sexy matador feel to it. That is just my interpretation…but I loved each look that came down the runway even more than the next.

The dresses by Oliver Tolentino were BEYOND gorgeous. The crowd was ooohing & ahhhing in delight. I’m pretty sure that every woman in the room mentally checked off her dream gown that first night.

And here are just a few of my favorite random shots from opening night. My husband and I immediately recognized Karen Barone who we now know is a renowned artist. After the show, a live band had the crowd dancing. Me and my hubby snapping a selfie. After the show, we walked over to Mastro’s and ran into the legendary James Goldstein. What an interesting life that man has led. His business card really does say Fashion, Architecture and Basketball. I’d sure love a tour of his closet!

Fashion Week El Paseo is going on now through March 28th. Click here for more details or to purchase tickets.

*Big thanks to Mannfolk PR for providing my press pass.