Mercedes-Benz takes Los Angeles for a smooth ride at Smashbox Studios, bringing a bevy of West Coast and International designers to show off their version for Fall 2008 couture

By Stacey Silberman

HOLLYWOOD, CA (Hollywood Today) 3/5/08 – Smashbox Studios brings high fashion to Los Angeles for the debut of West Coast and International designer’s 2008 Fall lines, with Davis Factor as host and Mercedes-Benz as sponsor, combining couture automobile design with men’s and women’s high fashion from March 9^th to 13^th at their Culver City studios.

Max Factor heir and Smashbox co-founder Davis is ready to rock n’ roll as he kicks-off another fashion event with celebutante friends in tow. After all, Paris Hilton, one of his childhood friends came to take in one of the Spring shows last October. And there were other celeb attendees as well who came to see what the LA fashion scene has to offer.

The designers already onboard are Paco Rabanne and Veronika Jeanvie, Joseph Domingo, Monarchy Collection, Kevan Hall, Kelly Nishimoto, Orthodox Clothing, Julia Clancey, Whitley Kros, Octavio Carlin, Suh-Tahn, Falguni Creations, Bow & Arrow by Alan Del Rosario, Lauren Conrad Collection, Maggie Barry for Xubáz, Nicholai, The Gallery, Jenny Han, Samora, Ashley Paige and the new line by Robin Antin, creator of the Pussycat Dolls.

“Many of the designers who are showing with Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios are debuting their collections for the first time and we are honored to be the premier destination for LA fashion shows,” said Smashbox co-founder Factor. “Keeping in tune with last season’s green theme, we are moving forward with almost all of our eco-friendly initiatives, it is important to keep the focus on creating a better future for our planet and for Los Angeles.”

World-renowned master couturier Rabanne, has come out of retirement to mentor the 28-year-old Ukranian designer Jeanvie, as she makes her United States debut in LA. Rabanne discovered the young designer who showed unique promise after he discovered her on the Kiev scene in 2007 and offered her his expertise, which she couldn’t refuse.

In honor of the collaboration, the designers have garnered the attention of Mercedes execs, eager to give the two honorees special mention at Smashbox.

“Mercedes-Benz is committed to innovative design in a range of disciplines, so we are pleased to have Paco Rabanne and Veronika Jeanvie as the ‘Mercedes-Benz Presents’ Designers this season at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios,” said Lisa Holladay, National Events Manager, Mercedes-Benz USA. “The design duo’s collaborative works compliment our car design philosophies through their creative metal workings, use of fine fabrics, and the seamless synthesis of their visions.”

Although there has been some politics regarding the location of the LA shows, both Factor and Smashbox associates stand by their vision for the LA fashion shows. According to reports, some in the LA fashion industry believe the show would be better suited to downtown LA’s fashion district because it would be more beneficial for the LA shows and designers.

“Los Angeles is such an interesting city and its fashion scene is ever evolving,” said Fern Mallis, SVP of IMG Fashion. “Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios is a reflection of the news, issues and creativity in this marketplace.”

While Smashbox has lost some of the designers who showed Spring lines at the venue, they are optimistic that the designer’s Fall lines will ignite fashionistas to buy for boutiques and individuals who look to the LA fashion shows for the latest couture.

During the course of the five-day show, Smashbox will attract a host of curious editors, buyers, industry insiders, celebrities and fashionistas, looking to expand their wardrobe, buy for celeb clients, report to their publications, photograph for the tabloids, but most of all, to get inspiration from the innovative new collections that the models will wear as they strut the LA catwalks.

“Mercedes-Benz is thrilled about the glamorous designer line-up at Smashbox Studios this season,” said Holladay. “Our elegant Star Lounge, modern Mercedes-Benz Reflections Gallery, and three exclusive Mercedes-Benz vehicle displays, exemplify how our brand highlights timeless style in LA’s most fashionable setting.”

But mostly, it’s a great people-watching experience, where one gets to mix with an interesting crowd, which is a great reflection on pop-culture ala LA.