SeeCalifornia.com

Pictured are runway photos from a recent fashion show featuring emerging, up & coming designers in California.

Women looking for the perfect party gown or dress this holiday season 2013 may notice these trends: luxury silks and shiny fabrics, fitted bodices, flared skirts and warm colors. You’ll see a lot of black, red, burgundy, burnished orange and even some olive.  It’s the season of classics as shown by emerging designers showcased in a recent fashion launch in Orange County. Their concepts follow closely with styles worn recently by Angelina Jolie and other entertainment celebs going for elegance.  We scoured Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales and several department stores to discover this year’s options in “rack” gowns.  Some of the best bets and prices seem to be at boutiques carrying Faviana (faviana.com) “Dress Like a Star” knock-offs such as Mia Bella Couture in Del Mar and Fresno, and in other small shops throughout California. Prices range from around $350 to $1500 for a gown or flashy party dress. Your best bet this season is to go online and find what you’re looking for–then track it down.

As for men, it should be easy getting ready for the date or event–mix & match slacks and jackets or traditional suit and tux options for dress up are safe bets.