10th Annual Phashion Phest

by A.D. Amorosi

When Sharon Phillips Waxman's SPW/Phashion Phest Productions team isn't running fashion shows for Moore College or giving Ralph Rucci its annual award, Waxman's busy maintaining the excellence of Phashion Phest's mission in this, its 10th anniversary year. Bringing together the tri-state area's toniest salons, retailers and accessory boutiques to promote Philly as a fashion industry mecca is mission number one. Mission number two has been to gather these upscale types in a show that tops everyone else's idea of what a local fashion show can be, from pre-show to the runway. DKNY and Bloomingdale's, Hugo Boss, Fashions by Penina, Nicole Miller, Pileggi Boutique, Sparacino-Mens and the Shops at Liberty Place join forces with this area's hottest hair and makeup salons (Blink, Ettoré, Pierre & Carlo) to trip the walkway with 2004's steamiest trends. And no: Waxman won't say what her theme is in regard to those looks and locks. One secret she will reveal is that PP10's cocktail reception showcase features Goldwell of PA and several local jewelers, haberdashers and haute couture types (Bobbi Brown at Lord & Taylor, Hats In The Belfry, LAGOS, Optique International Eyewear). And again, Phashion Phest asks guests to bring dry-cleaned articles of business clothing for men or women to be donated to Project H.O.M.E. -- for the chance to enter a drawing to win a LAGOS "Heart of Philadelphia" necklace. To be still cool after 10 years is quite a feat for Waxman's Phashion Phest. To make it matter for less fortunate sorts is better still.

10th Annual Phashion Phest, Wed., Sept. 17, 6 p.m., $35-$60, Festival Pier at Pennís Landing, Delaware Ave. and Spring Garden st., 267-321-7726, www.phashionphest.com.