L.A. Fashion Week (LAFW) has long been seen as the underdog among global fashion events, but this year, it made a bold statement with a refreshed approach. Held at a single location—the W Hotel—the week felt more like a summer camp for style enthusiasts. Designers, stylists, and journalists gathered for a whirlwind of shows, pop-ups, and personal encounters. Quick introductions and familiar faces from emails became face-to-face moments, as people navigated the space between runway shows and creative collaborations.
Since acquiring LAFW in 2022, Ciarra Pardo, president of N4XT Experiences, has focused on reshaping its legacy. “L.A. deserves a fashion week that mirrors its own culture,” says Pardo, who points to past years where the event failed to truly celebrate the city’s unique blend of industries and aspirations. This year, the programming aimed to reflect L.A.’s growing tech and beauty sectors, as well as its sustainable fashion goals. The atmosphere was electric, driven by experimentation and openness, rather than tradition.
“We encourage designers to explore different formats,” Pardo explains. “They don’t have to stick to the traditional runway style.” As a result, the event featured an eclectic mix, with brands like Rio, Private Policy, Priscavera, and Theophilio showcasing their designs in everything from runway shows to immersive pop-up experiences.
One of the highlights was the Nike Sport X Style Studio, curated by fashion director Keyla Marquez. The space, filled with metallic curtains and the scent of Diptyque Oud candles, offered a break from the usual hustle. It celebrated a new Nike collection, with campaign images styled by Marquez and shot by Thalía Gochez. The suite also included custom designs by Marquez, Sailor D. Gonzales, and Rusty Reconstructed, along with workshops led by jewelry artist Georgina Treviño. Over the week, attendees sported personalized Nike bags and shoes, a testament to the collaborative nature of LAFW.
Thursday night saw the studio transformed into a lively party, where DJ Niño Genesis played and guests indulged in an extraordinary charcuterie spread. Attendees, including Nike’s Bob Dominguez and creative minds like Spencer Christovale and Dime Jones, mingled in the stylish atmosphere.
On the runway, Ed Hardy brought a wave of nostalgia with a show that celebrated its iconic Y2K aesthetic. The collection, featuring flashy Ed Hardy patches and low-rise embellished jeans, captured the spirit of early 2000s celebrity culture. With a nod to the past, the show blended classic Ed Hardy style with modern silhouettes. The energetic runway opened to the sounds of the Yeah Yeah Yeah’s “Maps,” evoking memories of the golden era of pop culture.
LAFW 2024 succeeded in breaking away from its past, offering a fresh, dynamic platform that celebrated L.A.’s distinct style while embracing experimentation and creativity. This year’s event showed that L.A. Fashion Week is ready to forge its own path on the global fashion stage.
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