First Annual International Young Designers

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.