Fashion House YSL to Hold Second Art Auction

Those with an interest in the world of high fashion may have noted the recent auction of artworks hailing from the personal collection of legendary fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, but with all of the turmoil happening in haute couture these days, it's probably forgivable if the event was missed. The death knells, ringing out not so long ago, of French house Cristian Lacroix may lead to the idea that any sort of sale is directly linked to the effects of the global economic downturn on the classic sensibilities of the high fashion world. In a sense, this may be true in the case of YSL's auction, but the tone is distinctly different from those of other brands of late; the proceeds are going to charity. Namely, to AIDS research. Perhaps feeling charitable at the hands of personal misfortune (even if YSL stays afloat, the current state of affairs has to sting a little), or perhaps simply due to a personal inclination, the designer's decidedly opulent art pieces have lent their star power to helping further research for this serious health concern.
As if the masterpiece paintings and rare accentuating objects sold in the last auction weren't enough, the fashion mogul's estate has decided to hold another round of bidding on more of his collection. Coming from his country estate as well as his two urban residences in France, the items range from original Van Gogh paintings to a valuable ancient Chinese vessel, with plenty of eye-catching and rare items in between. Over the course of many years, Saint Laurent cultivated an impressive art and artifact collection with his partner, resulting in a treasure trove of items that are sure to draw even the most cash-strapped of bidders. After the designer's death last year, his partner made the choice to sell the pieces –a decision criticized by some, but applauded by others.
Of course, the auction may prove perfectly valid as grounds for dressing up and causing a bit of a stir in fashion mags. After all, the beauty of a Van Gogh doesn't have to mean that viewers' own artistic tendencies are totally out-shined. With a mild season prevailing in Paris, the event is ripe for a host of fluttery, flattering dresses, and audiences are rapt with attention to discover just what vintage YSL designs will make their way into the auction house. No matter the designer duds, there's plenty of room for costume jewellery to make a grand appearance at the event. With all the extraordinary items on the block, shelling out for pricey stones and branded baubles isn't likely to be in vogue. Instead, auction attendees can get a visual –and financial-- lift from radiant Swarovski crystals, complex chandelier earrings, beautiful brooches, and other jewellery pieces that look worthy of a few raised paddles but don't cost as dearly as anything in the lot.

Designers Tread the Red for Annual Gala

The red carpet, that is. While we're used to seeing scores of stars strut their stuff down the scarlet rugs at major events year round, typically donning adventurous gowns and suits that get dissected and discussed in magazines for months afterwards, it's rare that we're treated to a glimpse of the designers themselves. One exception to be depended upon is the annual Council of Fashion Designers of America gala, which is held to commemorate the efforts of national fashion moguls who present their new collections each season, and to select a group of especially impressive talents to serve as honored winners and stars of the fashionable show.
Sometimes referred to as the "Oscars of the fashion world," the CFDA gala attracts major designers and those who are breaking into the industry alike, as well as many notable celebrities and models. Project Runway host Heidi Klum, who was dazzling in a multifaceted silver gown showing off the notion that expectant moms can still be glamorous, arrived on the arm of Michael Kors, a judge on the show and one of America's most prolific and well-loved designers.
Other notable appearances included Vera Wang, distinguished by her famous bridal and formalwear collections. Wang chatted with reporters, straying from revealing any truth to rumors that she's slated to appear on the upcoming season of Dancing with the Stars. New designers took home several awards in many categories, highlighting the industry's continual ability to produce quality designs and creative minds despite an economic slump that has had a profoundly negative impact on the luxury industries and related fields.
In fact, the concern over the global financial crisis was largely absent form the gala's proceedings. Stars and designers alike showed non of the aesthetic reticence that has cropped up at some of the year's other red carpet events, opting for extravagant outfits that fully embrace the freedom and creativity of the fashion world. Jewellery was in ample supply, with everything from classic diamond chandelier earrings to bib necklaces and sparkling bangle bracelets adding their fair share of oomph to the atmosphere.
One especially notable feature of the event was the outspoken host; Tracey Ullman, whose comedic talent is fare more highly praised than her particular penchant for fashion, kept the audience entertained and ensured that the show ran smoothly as awards were handed out and the year in design was reviewed. Jimmy Fallon, of Saturday Night Live fame, was also part of the proceedings, serving as an award presenter for men's fashion design.
The mood Council of Fashion Designers of America's sumptuous red carpet event is a good sign for the fashion fans waiting with baited breath for a verdict on the health of the designer industry. As spirits were high and couture was higher, the night held the promise of perseverance.