I didn’t really know what to expect from the InspireDesign runway show at Fashion Focus Chicago. It was a cold and wretched night, but inside the tent, the dazzle and buzz of the crowd warmed things up. There were 5 designers presenting their lines, and the results of the Mario Make Me a Model Contest were announced.

Here’s another slideshow/video that I made of the runway show. This time, I chose Edith Piaf’s “Cetait une histoire d’amour” for a soundtrack (I hope it doesn’t annoy you!).

Overall, this show was a little edgier than the Incubator show…and a little less “wearable.”

Imaginary People was defined by muted, darker tones of black, white, sage, and “fog.” Cropped tops, asymmetrical details, and leggings make up much of the collection. My favorite ensemble was by far the all white Riding Hood paired with a tank and high-waisted leggings.

To me, this is a showstopper. All-white is generally so elegant and refined, but it’s usually shown in crisper, sharper lines. The draping and the the layers of white soften the look and add an amazing amount of visual interest. And the hood is attention-grabbing itself, is it not?

Michelle Tan’s color palette was also muted neutral tones, with a few washes of color thrown in. The first few designs featured shorts and cropped pants (which aren’t really my thing), but the skirts and dresses that came next were much more detailed and intriguing. And when the model demonstrated that a coat was detachable and converted into a cute motorcycle jacket, the crowd actually ooooed and awwwed. lol. Here are my favorite ensembles from Michell Tan’s line:

(Wide Collar Embellished Vest, Pin Tuck Top, and Laser Cut Skirt) I think the thing that really does it for me in this outfit is the wide collar vest. It’s a unique look and is visually dramatic.

(Crinkle Silk Strapless Dress) The deconstructed nature of this dress and the detailed bodice almost seem as if they are the remnants of an 16th century court dress. It feels wanton and a little unhinged…and I love it!

Next up, we have J.Cheikh. I don’t know much about menswear, but there were some fun and funky pieces in here that I could see some of my more daring man-friends incorporate into their wardrobe. One thing I did notice about this line was the shiny nature of the fabrics. I didn’t think I liked it at first, but it grew on me, and now I think regular men’s suiting looks so flat and one-dimensional. lol.

This black/silver notched shawl collar suit was one of my favorites! So sexy and unexpected!

Narcisse was one of my favorite lines of the evening…mostly because it brought to life some of my dreams of being a hot french adventure game character on the runway. lol. From the feathers to the knife holsters, to the velvet gowns and satin corsets…this line speaks of the darker side of sexy. These are the clothes of a courtesan assassin. lol. Like I said, these are exotic and gorgeous designs defined by a slinky seductiveness. And they are not for the faint of heart.

I definitely love this Coque Feather Bustier and Black High Slit Skirt (did you see the knife??)…My only wish is that the model actually had some boobs to fill it out. It definitely needs curves to up its sex appeal.

Another corset/feather/knife combo. lol. (Black Satin Corset, Coque Feather Skirt)

Textured Sheer Strapless Dress, Ostrich Feather Vest

Liquid Metal Dress with Triple Chain Straps

The last designer of the evening was Reddoll – and it was my other favorite (mostly because it appeals to my own personal style). It was feminine and flirty…defined by classic shapes that evoke womenswear of the 40s. Pencil skirts and cocktail dresses abounded, and I was in heaven!

My favorite piece of the whole night was this Camel Peplum Jacket and Camel Pencil Skirt.

*SWOON!!! I love this suit!!! Here are a few others that impressed me…

Black Bell Sleeve Top, Lace Pencil Skirt

Ivory Ruffle Dress

“Cloud” Tulle Dress….amazing, right??

Even better from the back!!

It was a great night and I loved being introduced to these new designers! I’ll definitely be dreaming of knife holsters, corsets, peplum jackets, and tulle dresses tonight!

Check back tomorrow for the Vert Couture Show…tons of eco-fashions that knocked my socks off!!!