The sixth annual La Jolla International Fashion Film Festival burst on the scene July 24-25 at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. Stylish people flew in from around the world for this fashion happening. Fred Sweet, the producer of La Jolla Fashion Film and CEO of San Diego Model Management, was on hand to greet all the guests along with director Linda Comer. Opening night began with an action-packed screening of the fashion films. On Saturday morning the first program began and attendees could come and pitch their ideas for a feature film to Louie Nguyenn, director of Global Development of HKFilm. Continuing in the afternoon was a Directors Panel with Robert E. Ball Jr., Antonio Contreras, and Indrani Pal-Chaudhuri. Next came the Producers Panel with Ashley Avis and Edward Winters who produced their own feature length film. Rounding out the afternoon was the Ethical Fashion Initiative Seminar with Simone Cipriani.
Cipriani talked about how we can help artisan’s get work at decent wages. Next a complimentary screening began which was part of an outreach program for the community. My favorite film during this screening was “Color Riche” by Bruno Aveillan for L’Oreal. This film was eye candy to watch and definitely color rich!
Next came the much-anticipated red carpet with directors, writers, film stars and celebrities from around the world. Clicking paparazzi surrounded the step and repeat. All these stylish people and their entourage made their way inside to their seats. MC’s for the two days were models and actors, Daryl Johnson and Elsa Martinez. Celebrities and filmmakers were chosen to announce the winners of the International Fashion Film Awards including the famous designer Sue Wong who creates glamorous creations for every woman. One of the highlights of the evening was Prince Mario Max Schaumburg-Lippe who is a TV-presenter, model and actor. To the delight of everyone he decided to make a selfie of the entire audience. LJFFF was fortunate to have royalty in attendance this year. Princess Leith Eaton De-Grimaldi, who recently married Prince Jean-Claude De-Grimaldi of Monaco, was a presenter.
During the screening a special performance was given by Antonio Contreras and his team reflecting the golden era of Mexican cinema. It began with the song “Besame Mucho” and finished with an awesome dance performance.
The 2015 International Fashion Film Awards for Global Excellence went to:
Tony Herebia, Alejandra Catalina, Garcia & Iyalode Studio from “Ay Jose” for Best Makeup, Paul Donovan from “The Chase” for Best Hairstyling, Maison Antonio Urzi from “Queen Brushands” for Best Costume Design, Robert E Ball Jr. from “The One 2” for Best Editing, and Luis Barreto Carrillo & Amber Moelter from “Peyote Dreams” for Best Documentary. James Franco, who is an actor and Academy Award winner, was awarded the Innovators Award via Skype. He has worked for fashion films such as 7 for all Mankind and Gucci. Adrien Servadio from “Stardust” was awarded the Best Visual Effects. This fashion film revolved around the human body and fire.
Additional awards went to Lykke Li from “Gucci SS14” for Best Music, Rie Yamagata in Ace Norton’s “The New Sovereignty” for Best Fashion, Josh Brandao from “Silver Girl” for Best Art Direction, Mika Ceron from “Circle of Fortune” for Best Creative Concept; Antonio Contreras in “Ay Jose” for Best Actor and the New Icon Award went to Michelle Phan.
I loved Louis Bergogne’s film, “Paris Est A Nous,” which won for Best Cinematography. It was about a romance in Paris and the main actress was on roller blades scurrying throughout the city.
Two films were honored for Best Director: Josh Franer and Phillip Montgomery in “Homeward (Found)” and Victor Claramunt in “Breading Rules.” Continuing their winning streak Jessy Schram in “Homeward (Found)” won for Best Actress. Ari Schneiderman in”Homeward (Found)” also won for Best Picture. This fashion film collaborated with L.A.-based clothing company Buck Mason and is a heartwarming Love Story, which leaves the audience with the message, “Home is Where the Heart is.”
The two nights concluded with a must-attend after party at Stella’s. All the fashionistas packed into Stella’s for dining and networking into the late night. For additional information on this incredible event, stay tuned at www.ljfff.com. UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturday Aug. 15 – Haute With Heart Fashion Show for St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center at Hilton Bayfront. Fashion Show presented by Leonard Simpson. For tickets call (619) 442-5129 ext. 115. Saturday Aug. 22 – Style Soiree Fashion Show Fashion Week San Diego has partnered with Grossmont Center from 3 to 4 p.m. in front of movie theatre by fountains. Three fashion bloggers will also discuss different looks from the boutiques. — Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned couture milliner based in the Gaslamp Quarter. Learn more about this hat designer, teacher and blogger at DianaCavagnaro.com.
