By Diana Cavagnaro | Fashion Files

Kenneth Barlis Couture collection

The second annual Kenneth Barlis Fashion Show was presented at the Lafayette Hotel on Nov. 7.

The theme for the evening was the Mayan culture, with the ancient Mesoamerican civilization as inspiration for the elegant gowns.The models came down the runway in metallic colors of gold, copper, and silver; their gowns embellished with sequins, rhinestones, and feathers. These intricate details added to the runway with a luxurious 2015 spring/summer couture collection.

The emcees for the evening were Robert Santos and Vanessa Van Hyfte from KGTV Channel 10. Barlis also showed off his menswear collection. Added details to the suits made his collection stand alone. Various singers and guitar players entertained the crowd: Katriz Trinidad from “The Voice” U.S., Dave Lamar from “The Voice” Philippines, and Mikaela Rodriquez. Another standout entertainer was Chula Vista resident Jessica Sanchez from “American Idol.” She was nursing a sore throat but was still able to deliver a knockout performance.

The night finished up with the bridal collection. Barlis showed his first bridal collection in 2010.    Guest models for the finale were Janine Tugunon, Ms. Universe first runner up 2012, and Esmeralda Padilla-Gould, Mrs. Asian Las Vegas 2014, who both showed off the exquisite bridal gowns on the runway. This current 2015 Bridal Collection is called the Cat’s Meow.

Pretty Seven Boutique

Pretty Seven Boutique recently opened in East Village, Downtown. The boutique carries an array of trendy and stylish merchandise at a reasonable price point. Customers come to purchase unique business and professional wear or find a new ensemble for going out on the town. The inside décor is elegant classic with themes of red, black, and white colors. The room is decorated with many fashion icons.

Friends Vanessa Angulo and Yolanda Zavala opened this boutique on Sept. 27. Angulo studied merchandise marketing at FIDM. They provide customer service and exceptional styling for their customers. Some of the brands they carry are Lush Clothing, Naked Zebra, and Collective Concept.  Accessories include clutches, necklaces, earrings, and belts.

If you would like to be pretty seven days a week, come in to 900 F St., Suite 170. They offer Downtown residents a 10 percent discount and are open Monday through Friday from 12 – 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to – 8 p.m. Every Wednesday evening is happy hour for shopping and networking.  The upcoming holiday party for Pretty Seven Boutique will be on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 12 – 6 p.m. All customers can take 24 percent off of one item.  Happy shopping!

Upcoming Events

Dec. 6 | Gone with the Wind Fabulous — This is a Women’s Empowerment Glam Expo and  crafter’s market for the holiday shopping season. Benefits the local Dove Outreach program. 1 – 4 p.m. located at 5945 Pacific Center Blvd., Suite 510.  RSVP at eventrbrite.com – search for women’s empowerment glam expo.

Dec. 14 |Wish Upon A Snowflake – This fashion show and toy drive is presented by Lady Lane at Jolt ’n Joe’s Downtown, starting at 6 p.m. The event will showcase independent designers and visual arts. Proceeds will go to local community youth organizations. Admission is $30 or $10 off with a new, unwrapped toy.

—Diana Cavagnaro is a nationally recognized hat designer and milliner and for the last 20 years she’s operated her business from Downtown San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter while moonlighting in the fashion department at San Diego Mesa College. She can be reached at [email protected].