The 10th annual La Jolla International Fashion Film Festival took place on July 26-27. Talented filmmakers come from around the world for this two-day event. Friday was the opening night reception at The LOT with an art installation by Antonio Contreras and Jacques Silberstein. Saturday morning featured two screenings running simultaneously at the same venue. Afternoon screenings moved to The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center.

The red carpet added entertainment this year with the Breton Follies, Sonic Masquerade, and the ballad of Frida Kahlo, “Nothing Sacred” (from the documentary of the same name) sung by Elsa Martinez. The biggest star on the red carpet was Nova, the wolf from the film “Midnight Trip,” which won the IFFA Award for Best Picture; Nova stole the hearts of everyone.  

Fred Sweet, who is the founder and producer of this amazing event, welcomed the audience. The masters of ceremonies were Tabitha Lipkin and Luke DePron, who got the films rolling. During the event, Lipkin wowed the audience by her many fashion changes wearing designs by Rene Atelier and Ugochi Iwuaba.  

The feel-good film “Princess” presented diversity in fashion and took home awards for the Best Message, Best Set Design and Best Actress in a Leading Role (this honor went to Jo Price). Antonio Contreras won Best Documentary for his film “Nothing Sacred” about the life of Frida Kahlo. His film “The Falling Leaves” was awarded Best Hairstyling to Tony Callejas Herebia. The highlight of the evening was the musical performance of “Autumn Leaves” by the incredible vocalist Carmelia Toot Bell. The crowd was mesmerized. 

The film “Denying Beauty” took home two awards: Best Makeup and Best Director by Rossano B. Maniscalchi. “Denying Beauty” was filmed in the Tenuta de Artimino, which is on the estate of the Villa Medicea and surrounded by the breathtaking Tuscan countryside. The film “Azalys,” by Anastasia Ruiz and Arthur Choupin, was about a gemologist who went on a mystical journey for the answer to his stone. Benjamin Bismuth took home Best Actor in a Leading Role for this one. Best Fashion was awarded to “French Deal.” 

“Isabelle” was awarded Best Narration, “Cry” had amazing scenery and was awarded Best Cinematography, and “Package” was awarded Best Creative Concept. This film had the audience in stitches. Best Art Direction went to “Patron Saint Museum Test” and Best Visual Effect went to the campy film “Alien Adventures in Mercury.” The beautiful sounds of “Out Of Sync” took home the Best Music Award. Best Accessories went to “Film Me,” Best Cast Ensemble went to “Initiation,” and Best Jewelry went to “Senses.” 

The techno-age film “Prada-Nylon Farm” won for Best Supporting Role Fashion Brand, “The Flourish” won for Best Costume Design, and “Chasing Current” won Best Editing with its beautiful underwater scenes. “Nouvelle Vague” took home the award for Best Sound Design. If you missed this remarkable event, stay tuned by visiting LJFFF.com 

Upcoming Events 

Saturday, Aug. 10: “Dreaming of Style” — 42nd Haute with Heart Fashion Show and Luncheon to benefit St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. For tickets, visit: stmsc.org/center-events/register-for-haute-with-heart-fashion-show. 

Sunday, Aug. 11: Del Mar Ladies & Gents Day at the Races — Health and beauty, shopping and retail located at the Seaside Cabana. Drawing for $1,000 in prizes. Pick up VIP invites at San Diego Massage Envy locations, which includes admission to racetrack and private trackside Seaside Cabana. 

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned couture milliner based in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher and blogger at DianaCavagnaro.com.