As I rushed to get to the tents in time for Vivienne Tam's show last night, I got stuck waiting in a huge line at the entrance. Apparently security had been "heightened" and no one was getting past the doorman unless they had a hard invite. Cool. By the time I squeezed through all the annoyed and frantic guests who were probably not getting in, I realized that I didn't have time to warm myself up with a few complimentary vodka sodas. Even cooler.

Either way, once inside, the crowd was pretty good. Actress Emmanuelle Chriqui (of Entourage fame) and ex-Destiny's Child Michelle Williams were getting mobbed by paparazzi, while socialite Susan Shin and her well-pedigreed posse were scrambling to find their front-row seat assignments. Model Ling was also on hand to show her support.

Once the lights went down and the cracked-out techno started up, the opening looks strutted out: Somber-hued pieces with good bodies, but lacking in the detailing and complex workmanship Tam is famous for. Then, about halfway through the show, a heinous ill-fitting, 80s-flashback off-the-shoulder aubergine prom dress floated out from backstage. Are you kidding me? Did the dressers accidentally send out an old Jessica McClintock prom gown? Tam redeemed herself a few looks later with a lovely red-and-black print baby doll dress with front pleat and drape details—definitely my favorite piece of the evening—but as I left The Tents all I could think about was that "Purple Rain" disaster!

-Barbara Roan

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Similar Topics:Fashion, Fashion Week

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