On Monday September 26^th, Market Square and surrounding venues in Pittsburgh hosted the beginning of what marked Pittsburgh’s second annual Fashion Week. The kick-off event began with a cocktail reception at McCormick and Schmick’s restaurant in the city. Guests of all varieties arrived donning the latest fall trends mixed with hints of classic European designer staples. While vintage Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and even the coveted Hermes Birkin bags made their appearances in the fashion forward Pittsburgh crowds, the atmosphere of the room stood out the most. It felt like, just for once, everyone was immersed in the avant-garde society of New York City’s fashionable elite during the peak of its fashion seasons in the months of September and February. At McCormick’s and Schmick’s, guests dined on the likes of seared tuna and other assortments of fishes. The sushi that was served there as well consisted of everything from the California to the Salmon Roll. While eating these delectable hors d’oeuvres and drinking martinis with a cucumber intricately placed in each glass, people socialized and took in the Marc Jacobs Fall 2011 Runway Show shown on the vast projector screen in the room.

After finishing up at McCormick’s and Schmick’s, everyone made their way over to another favorite Pittsburgh restaurant located right next door, The Capital Grille. At this venue, guests sampled lobster macaroni, filet mignon and humus dip paired with white and red wines. An old Hollywood vibe could be felt in the room as the dim lighting, rich mahogany wooden walls, and velvet décor laid the foundation for the setting. The flash of photographers’ cameras added to the glitz and glamour of the night as individuals in the crowds got to show off their best model poses. Once this part of the Monday festivities finished up, it was time for the big show; the most anticipated event of the night.

Fashion enthusiasts strutted with each step they took down Fifth Avenue as they made their way to the tent at Market Square for the show. The entrance to the tent was like a red carpet event, lined with columns with bushels of flowers and even more photographers. Walking through the entrance, guests knew that they were about to get an exclusive look into a world of fashion that was only going to be seen by them that evening. The show was previewing the Fall and Holiday Collections of fashion group Doncaster. As the house lights went down and the spotlight shined brightly on the runway, the DJ spun his dance club worthy tunes and the models began to walk out. From all ages and clothing sizes, the women who modeled showcased each piece in the collection with such flawless execution. Leopard and lace garments seemed to dominate the Fall and Holiday Doncaster Collections and were worn be a few famous Pittsburgh area faces. WTAE news anchor Wendy Bell along with local native Jacqui Gnazzo, most recognizable for being featured in the second season of the hit E! Network reality television show, Kourtney and Khloe Take Miami as a DASH store employee or “DASH doll,” graced the runway. As the show came to a close, it was then that the crowd moved on to the final event of the night, the after-show VIP party in the lobby of Piatt Place.

The final part of the evening included a champagne and dessert reception at Piatt Place.  Guests topped off the first day of Pittsburgh Fashion Week with toasts galore while munching on cupcakes that exuded exquisite style, with the Chanel logo in icing, as well as taste. A band played in the background as the night drew to a close, making it the perfect ending to a fashionable event. Guests left with gift bags that included the August/September issue of Maniac Magazine.

Ultimately, this event could not have been possible without the help and sponsorship of Piatt Properties, The Capital Grill, McCormick’s and Schmick’s, Izzazu Salon, Tiffany & Co., Fairmont Pittsburgh and most importantly the Doncaster fashion team and Vice President of Design, Patricia Clyne. A special thanks also goes out to Ladies Hospital Aid Society (LHAS) of Pittsburgh who were a crucial part of the event committee and were the event beneficiary for the evening as well. For the past 113 years, members and volunteers of the LHAS committee have given back immensely to the Pittsburgh area by assisting the underprivileged through the use of financial, medical, social, and educational services. The LHAS committee this year, under the direction of current President, Ms. Laura Penrod Kronk and Executive Director Ms. Dee Dee Troutman have done a tremendous job so far in living up to one of its main goals, “to provide support for the sick and the poor living in our diverse neighborhoods” and will continue to do so for many years to come.

This night was certainly one of the most fashionable Pittsburgh has seen in a while and it was definitely refreshing to see how the city has evolved through its stylish inhabitants. It is safe to say that everyone who left the event is already looking forward to next year’s!

~~By Matthew Hacke