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First Annual International Young Creators/Designers Fashion Week

By Tandi Tuakli

Every week I hear about a new fashion week happening somewhere in the world- from Portland to Bali and it seems that at last every designer has his or her showcase, at one of these fashion events, but apparently not. Despite the already overwhelming number of fashion shows taking place, has not deterred a group known as Creators' Palace from believing that there is room for more.

Taking advantage of a lull in the fashion calendar in New York, this group of mavericks put on an event aimed at giving young struggling designers a chance to showcase their work and hopefully get their next big break during the International Young Creators/Designers Fashion Week that was held from November 30, 2006 to December 4.

For all those designers still waiting to hear back about their GenArt application, the International Young Creators/Designers Fashion Week was a medium to have their clothing seen and perhaps even launch a career. Although the event was plagued by a number of problems, most notably a lackluster turnout, as well as long and frequent delays and an inconsistent schedule, some allowances must be made for an inaugural event. The best thing about the event was its unfiltered presentation of diverse aesthetics including both conceptual and commercial designers.

The rawness of the event proved to be a double-edged sword: the location of the event and its organization left much to be desired, but thankfully the innovation of some of the designers had me leaning forward on the purple velvet couches.

One of the designers featured was O. Damien Peterkin , a self-taught 23 year old eveningwear designer. Sitting across from him atop a raised platform covered in purple carpet that doubles as the runway, it is easy to be distracted by the mirrored walls and ceilings, but Peterkin is engaging and eager; his charming personality accessorizing his Burberry meets Enyce ensemble. Despite all the distractions, what stands out most about Peterkin is his talent.

The Backstory:

He insists that he has had no formal training in fashion design. In fact, his only experience was an internship, at which he learned more about the business side of the fashion industry. After finishing the internship in 2004, Peterkin decided to start his own line of eveningwear. Today he continues to run his one man operation out of his home.

Peterkin's aesthetic and interest in eveningwear is due in part to his admiration of Oscar de la Renta. Of his idol, he says simply, �He's the best.� Peterkin would like to become as near and dear to a new generation of fashion-savvy women as Mr. de la Renta is to his loyal following.

Peterkin says his clothes are designed for women from mid-twenties to late thirties, but like de la Renta , Peterkin's designs could be worn by a daring fashionista of any age. He says that he wants to give an edgier option to women with an appreciation for well-made eveningwear. Peterkin points out the fact that eveningwear can be too formal and staid, commenting that, �These girls want to dress up, but they still want to look young.�

The Look:

His designs have a sharp beauty to them. For women interested in being unconventional and innovative without sacrificing glamour, there is now another option. It really is not that hard to imagine a Hollywood starlet posing for paparazzi in Peterkin's tight silver strapless dress or a doll-faced young model swathed in a Peterkin original featured in the fashion editorial of a high fashion glossy.

Personal Style:

When it comes to dressing himself, his urban English gentleman style comes from his love of vintage clothing. He recommends Andy 's Cheapy's for great inexpensive fashion finds. �I also love shopping at Zara and Lounge.�

Inspiration:

Where does Peterkin find the inspiration for his work: � Bryant Park is my favorite spot for inspiration. I like people-watching�I look at women who look really chic and think �How could she look better?'� It's this inclination to make chic women look even better, that will hopefully distinguish O. Damien Peterkin (as if the name weren't enough) amidst an eager crowd of aspiring fashion designers.

Looking Ahead:

O. Damien is unsure what path his career might take. For now, he hopes to find trendy boutiques in the New York City area to carry his pieces and build his business from there. He would like to hire at least one other person to help with his workload, preferably a talented seamstress.

All photos by Seth Sabal - www.sethsabal.com
For more information on International Young Creators/Designers Fashion Week: www.creatorspalacefashion.s5.com
For more information on O. Damien Peterkin: www.modelmayhem~
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