When Donna Marsh celebrated the grand opening of this exclusive retail store in La Jolla, the entire block of Fay Avenue was closed off for the red carpet affair and a tent similar to New York’s Fashion Week was set up. Guests sipped signature cocktails and munched on delicious hors d’oeuvres as they browsed from the jeans room to the spa room, to business attire and to the gown room.
Donna and Mark Steinback, owners of this upscale women’s store, were on hand to greet the guests. They have given San Diego and La Jolla a shopping experience that is a step up. The Donna Marsh experience includes designer clothing, accessories, gifts and special attention to customer service. There is something here for everyone, from trendy jeans, hot styles of Cynthia Steffe and Trina Turk and drop-dead gorgeous evening gowns by Badgley Mischka and Sue Wong. Rounding out the store are sophisticated separates by local Solana Beach designer Marisa Baratelli with her beautiful Thai silk creations.
Jack Berkman was emcee for the evening and began the grand opening celebration. A runway show highlighting the latest trends topped off the VIP event. Cropped pants and wider jeans were shown. Color trends were yellow, coral, tangerine and anything metallic. Many of the looks are reminiscent of the ’60s with Pucci prints, large geometric designs and paisleys all interpreted for today’s woman. Animal prints are still popular and could also be seen on the runway.
The highlight of the evening was the segment showcasing the exquisite designer gowns. At the end of the show there was a shopping frenzy with 10 percent of the day’s proceeds, plus the entire silent auction and the live auction proceeds, going to the charitable group Las Patronas.
The upscale Donna Marsh boutique is located at 7712 Fay Ave. For information, call (858) 454-3003 or visit www.donnamarshlajolla.com.