Lady LUX

Highlighting young and up-and-coming fashion and accessories designers, Gen Art is gearing up for New York Fashion Week with a range of initiatives and a new roster of talent, reported WWD.

Under the umbrella of the New Garde Fashion Show, three designers will showcase their items: William Okpo, designed by Darlene and Lizzy Okpo; Samantha Pleet, who crafts her apparel in New York using organic materials where possible, and Gemma Kahng, who recently rereleased her line.

This year’s event also boasts a new sponsor: Crest 3D White. The company has created a Little White Wardrobe competition in which designers make a capsule collection based on the toothpaste’s white, radiant theme. The winners will be announced as part of the showcase.

“Part of what we’re doing right now is taking the company to next level,” Gen Art’s CEO, Marc Lotenberg, said to WWD. “We’re hoping to switch up the script.”

The exhibition is scheduled for Feb. 9 at Exit Art. An afterparty will follow, hosted by actress Emmanuelle Chriqui, to help the work of Raise Hope for Congo, one of the celebrity’s favorite causes.

Such distinguished designers as Zac Posen, Rodarte, Phillip Lim and Rebecca Taylor have debuted their collections during Gen Art fashion shows.

Gen Art reprised its yearly Fresh Faces in Fashion, which showcases fledging fashion and accessories designers throughout the September events, after a two-year break and a switch to Sandow Media as owner.

For more information, visit www.genart.com.

Tagged in: new york fashion week, gen art, samantha pleet, gemma kahng, emerging designers, darlene okpo, lizzy okpo, william okpo, up-and-coming designers,