The inimitable Sue Wong eschewed runways again and presented her Fall 2011 collection, “My Fair Lady,” in a spectacular setting—her 1920s-era Los Feliz home known as the Cedars, which has a storied history. Built for an executive of MGM—which is why lions are a theme in the décor–it was once home to actress Norma Talmadge and temporary digs for Jimi Hendrix.
Wong, who is known for her ultra-feminine beaded gowns, says the inspiration for her collection was the Edwardian English styling of the 1964 George Cukor film “My Fair Lady” and its theme of self-transformation. The movie features spectacular iconic costumes and dramatic Ascot hats designed by Sir Cecil Beaton, whose work features embellishments of the Edwardian era like embroidery, lace trim and appliqué work.
Wong asked guests to wear Ascot hats to her home, and while that’s something not many have in their closet, many do have a Sue Wong and broke it out for the occasion—resulted in a very well-dressed daytime crowd feting the designer and her creations in a free-form fashion show on the grounds of the estate.
Statuesque models wore ornate gowns and cocktail dress in gleaming satin, flowing chiffon and fine laces, embellished with jeweled crystal beadwork and intricate embroidery. Some featured skirts of organza petals and ostrich feathers. The color palette included black, champagne, nude, ivory, platinum and plum. The show-stopping couture hats were from Arturo Rios.
Wong’s motto is “Beauty. Magic. Transformation.” And her designs are meant to empower and transport the wearer to a fantasy realm of her choice.
The event also featured a silent auction of five Sue Wong gows, with proceeds benefiting victims of Japan’s tragic earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster.
