Celebrating Couture

Naeem Khan returns to San Diego May 9 for the annual Celebrating Couture fashion show at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront to benefit The Old Globe. The combination of Khan and the Globe is magical. Khan describes his 2014 collection as “highly textured.” He is already well known for his use of imaginative embellishments on lush fabrics, but he has carried this feature further in the new collection. Intricate decoration graces incredibly beautiful garments that follow simple classic lines in gowns that are sexier than ever before. After all, one of his most famous clients is Beyonce. “I took the sex from cabaret, but made it elegant,” says Khan. On bodices, there are leopard spots made of stacked sequins. Skirts are hand dyed to match the animal spots and are seen in hues of gold, chocolate, cream, and black. Black ostrich feathers, fringe, and gold lame are featured, too. Lavish, yes, but Khan’s traditional use of embroidery is still present, and that embroidery is often elaborate. At the May 9 fashion show, look for bold prints, metallics, one-shoulder and off-the-shoulder dresses and tops, as well as lots of vibrant lipstick red, black, and cream colors.

Michelle Obama loves the gowns of Khan and has drawn international attention to him by wearing his garments to important occasions. It helps, of course, that she looks totally gorgeous in the clothes. Alicia Keyes is another fan, as is Queen Noor of Jordan. In the San Diego community, many high profile women wear Khan’s clothes. Sheryl White, Iris Strauss, Valerie Cooper, Jo Ann Kilty, and Karen Cohn have been photographed wearing magnificent Khan designs.

The Globe Guilders partner with Neiman Marcus for this always-popular event. Guilders have planned a Champagne reception, appealing silent and live auctions, and a delectable luncheon, followed by the major attraction, Khan’s prestigious fashion extravaganza.

Lois Lewis is chair of the fashion show, and co-chairs are Dolores Smith and Patricia Paul. Sandra Redman is Honorary Chair. Valerie Cooper heads the honorary committee. Barbara Bolt is in charge of reservations. (619.889.7121, www.globeguilders.org/fashionshow)    DARLENE G. DAVIES