Spring forward – A new event will debut 2015 collections this fall

Known for debuting fresh looks from some of the most talented southern designers—and several with ties to Baton Rouge and New Orleans, like herself— Hazel & Florange designer and entrepreneur Andi Eaton (one of our 2013 People to Watch) is leading a new style event this fall.

Called the Southern Coalition of Fashion and Design, the week-long celebration will include runway shows, presentations and parties, including events held at New Orleans painter James Michalopoulos’ Old New Orleans Rum Distillery.

“The aim is to provide Southern-based, or born, designers with a national platform to showcase both established and on-the-horizon designs,” says event spokesperson Leonela Guzman.

Boutique buyers, style bloggers, media and trendsetters will get the first look at new collections for 2015’s spring season. And given Eaton’s track record for talent spotting, this year’s event could produce some breakout stars in Louisiana fashion.

Designers previously featured in Eaton’s productions include Project Runway stars Matthew Arthur of Mattingsworth and Anthony Auld Ryan of Anthony Ryan. Louisiana-based designer Amanda DeLeon has shown at Eaton’s shows, and last season her fall 2014 line LaNouvelle-Orleans premiered at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City.

Tickets will be available later this month at sc-fd.org.