Posted by Lorin Drinkard / Wednesday, February 8th, 2012

Hello, runway. / Photo credit: Lorin Drinkard
Like they say, fourth time’s the charm.
This week, Crystal City hosts the returning fashion frenzy of an event – Crystal Couture. Through Friday night, more than 40 designers from NoVA, D.C. and Maryland are strutting their latest and greatest spring lines on the runway for our viewing pleasure.
Five evenings of discounted duds, runway shows, hot jams and more. And the best part? It’s all open to the public and you don’t need your wallet to get in. Although after seeing some of the major trunk sales, you will be pulling it out faster than you can say,
“Ooh, love it!” (0:54)
Last night, Philippa Hughes of the Pinkline Project graciously hostessed the runway. While waiting in between model walks, guests browsed the couture racks of gowns, tops and more. Looking to start an arm party? Oodles of bangles and bracelets on display should get you your bauble fill. Other event highlights: complimentary henna tattoos and Paul Mitchell makeovers.
Now, onto the c-l-o-t-h-e-s. Check out snapshots of the Beltway (and beyond!) designers’ hottest looks for after winter. Also known as coming-out-of-hibernation time.
Ibhana Creations
From black and white graphic prints to exposed zippers, this international line (with a local boutique in Bethesda) added simple yet lovely touches to classic styles. Our favorite piece = a drapey, muted green jacket.

A sharp black dress from Ibhana Creations. Photo credit: Amol Pandit

Another Ibhana Creations design on the runway. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

The selected spring collection. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
South Moon Under
With fashion-forward stylings and an eclectic spin on things, South Moon Under showcased some clothes that make us wish all this dreary/almost snowy weather was dunzo. Think tribal + tropic + pops of coral. To find a NoVA store near you, click here.

Tribal pants, anyone? / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

Another warm(er) weather look from South Moon. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

Jeans get a major boost with a flirty top. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

Nude hues + tie-waist shorts. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

Best piece: a vacay-inspired rompsuit (part romper, part jumpsuit). / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
The C.A.T. Walk Boutique
Offering a range of sizes (from 0 to 26) in new and consignment pieces, plus fantastic accessories and shoes, The C.A.T. Walk Boutique represents the D.C. fashion scene. Stripes, purple tones, sequins and black touches make appearances in their runway walk. Bonus: check out the sleeveless grey hooded cape in photo #2. You’re welcome.

One shoulder, stripey goodness. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

Note to self: buy this. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

The C.A.T. Walk's lavender/deep purple look. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

Satin + shimmer. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Ugglee Collection
Samuel Mintah, the brains behind Ugglee, presented an assortment of looks on the runway. From monogrammed tops and cut-out shoulders to animal print and menswear pieces, Ugglee Collection brings originality and spice for spring inspiration. Hear Mintah share about his designs at this link.

Pastels take center stage. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

Maxi-mum style appeal. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

The Ugglee Collection mixes hearts + stripes. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

A look for men by Ugglee. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
Ke’Chic Boutique
Punchy lipstick, trenches and bridal-wear looks hit the runway to show off this College Park boutique’s collection. We’re loving their sleeveless pieces and mile-high heels. For more stylish Ke’Chic options, visit their website here.

That's a wrap. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

A swingy houndstooth coat from Ke'Chic. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit

Calling all brides. / Photo credit: Amol Pandit
For Crystal Couture’s upcoming runway schedule of events, check out their site here.
–Lorin Drinkard
Tags: arm party, couture, Crystal City, Crystal Couture, designers, fashion, fashion sale, Fashion Show, free, Ibhana Creations, Ke-Chic Boutique, Man Repeller, Northern Virginia, Northern Virginia Magazine, nova mag, South Moon Under, spring fashion, The C.A.T. Walk Boutique, Things to do in Northern Virginia, Trunk Show, Ugglee Collection