Designer Shines at Fashionable Fete

Fashion’s fourth wall came tumbling down last night when fans rubbed elbows with New York’s hot new designer and “Project Runway” winner, Irina Shabayeva, at Helen Ainson’s fashion show and party to raise money for area breast cancer programs.

Models (all customers of Helen Ainson) mingled in gorgeous gowns against a glittering backdrop of evening light. On display were pieces from Irina’s spring 2011 collection, an ethereal and extremely feminine grouping. It is also a slight departure from the previous season, a bold, edgy collection that evoked the drama of designer Jean Paul Gaultier, whom Irina sites as an artistic inspiration. Willing to experiment and follow the muse, she is emerging as one of New York’s more dynamic designers. And judging from the bottleneck on Route 1 alongside the fashion tent, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that Irina’s designs stop traffic.

“This dress is incredible,” gushed Lila Sullivan, a sophomore at Darien High School and one of show’s models. “I could live my life in this dress.” A budding designer herself, Lila created her own line of clothing for a school project last year. “But nothing I did was as beautiful as this,” she said of the blush-colored, multi-tiered gown.

One of the more striking pieces on display was a structured, anthracite, runway-worthy gown, modeled by Deborah Good. Strapless and boasting fantastically full train, this piece created a silhouette Rita Hayworth would have appreciated. “I’ve never modeled before in my life,” said Deborah, whose grace belied her lack of experience. “But I’m having so much fun. I feel gorgeous in this dress. Irina is incredibly talented. And it’s wonderful to see so many come out to support such an important cause.”

Model Erin Kelly blossomed in a scarlet, rose-patterned strapless gown. And the designer herself dazzled a deconstructed cocktail version of the anthracite gown.

“I’m happy to get out of the Manhattan bubble,” said the gracious Irina. “Meeting people, making those connections, it’s important.” True to her word, she spent the evening in smiling conversation with just about everyone.

“I’m thrilled,” said Erica Jensen, owner of Helen Ainson. “Everyone looks beautiful and like they’re having fun. And I think we’ll end up raising a good amount for the cause.”

Get ready to stop a little traffic yourself. Irina Shabayeva’s eponymous line will be available soon at the Helen Ainson boutique in Darien.

 

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