3.1 Phillip Lim Runway Show--NYFW for American Express Cardmembers Only

If you live, work, or visit New York City during Fashion Week, you'll see large crowds of onlookers on the steps to the Bryant Park tents, waiting to see who gets in, and who comes out. Although it is glamorous and exciting, and well publicized, the week of fashion shows is really the industry's "trade show." You can't get in unless you have press credentials, or are an invited guest of the designer. But the people on the steps in this photo, are American Express card members, and they are about to get inside!

American Express, a sponsor of Fashion Week, has opened the door for a select group of it's card members to gain entree to Fashion Week. They provide a bird's eye view of the runway shows from a luxe skybox high above the Bryant Park tents, and and access to a members-only fashion show on one of the actual runways in the tents. This year, acclaimed fashion designer Philip Lim was the chosen designer.

Lim's reprise of his show, from just a few days before, was scheduled after the Tommy Hilfiger runway show, the last of the Spring 2010 season. When the press and buyers left to soak their aching feet and get some sleep, the main tent became energized by men and women who were ready to soak up some fashion, even if it was just for one show and one night. American Express card members got the full fashion week show experience, albeit softened, with shorter waits on lines, and champagne, cocktails and nibbles pre-show, and an extra bonus: a limited time shopping discount to purchase Mr. Lim's designs. The eager and well dressed crowd also got to walk around the main tent, picking up industry magazines such as The Daily. Accompanied by a riser full of photographers, event goers also got to sit in the very same seats that just hours before, were filled with celebrities and industry movers and shakers.

Even industry insiders have to pay for their Fashion Week credentials. Ticket prices for this always hotly anticipated event vary, from front row to standing room. Everyone seemed happy to be there no matter where they were sitting or standing. Those who were sitting, were in the same rows of pristine, white folding chairs that celebrities were in just hours before. There was even a full riser of photographers (minus one--me)! Another value that this special show offered, besides the chance to see a reprise of the 3.1 Phillip Lim Spring/Summer 2010 collection,was that chance to see some of the pieces from Lim's current, Fall line (see the look above) and get a limited time discount to buy what they loved, as well!

The audience for these fashion week events is quite varied. During my visit to the American Express Skybox, and surverying the crowd at this Phillip Lim show, I could see males and females of all ages. In speaking to people, I learned that these shows are for anyone who loves fashion, is aspiring to be in the industry, is curious about what a true fashion show is really like, or even for couples who just want to experience something truly unique, together. A quick survey of the crowd showed mother and daughters, husbands and wives, boyfriends and girlfriends, friends going in groups to be part of the scene, guys who love to girl watch, and lots of students who hope they will be visiting the tents every day during Fashion Week, some day soon. Tips For First Timers: If you are attending a fashion show please remember not to lean out to take photos and video as you'll blog the view of others guests and the photographers. Put any packages and handbags behind your legs and don't cross or swing your legs. They are dangerous obstacles for the models and an obstruction for the photographers! Don't talk loudly during the show, it's probably being videotaped. Finally, even if they cocktails are free, don't overdo them....you'll won't remember what you saw on the runway (and isn't that the reason you're there in the first place)?

Runway shows don't normally include an introduction, and the designer appears for a brief moment after the show is over. But this one is special, bringing the designer front and center on his own runway before the show, to provide unique insights his collection. Andre Leon Talley, editor-at-large for Vogue magazine, and Linda Fargo, Senior Vice President, Fashion Office and Store Presentation for Bergdorf Goodman, were the hosts. That's a star-studded beginning.

Then the lights dimmed on the red runway with futuristic mirrored backdrop, and Mr. Lim won a bunch of new fans, as 45 designs for day and evening strode down the runway...on precariously tall Louboutin stilettos! Hair was expertly done by Rodney Cutler, and makeup was by Wendy Karcher for the MAKE UP FOR EVER ALLIANCE. The jewelry, accessories, and eyewear were all 3.1. Phillip Lim.

The beautifully constructed clothes, even casual day shorts, were lovingly crafted. "My clothes are my children" said Phillip Lim. The designs are appealing to a wide range of personalities and age groups, with colors and materials put together in unusual, unexpected ways to create a versatile wardrobe. This collection also featured intricate pleating that looked elegant and unique.

"With consumers becoming increasingly savvy about the world of fashion, I am always challenging myself to create new and authentic ways for customers to experience my collections," said Phillip Lim. "By partnering with American Express, I am able to provide Cardmembers insight beyond the traditional runway show and offer them a one-of-a-kind experience into my design process."

Over the past five seasons, American Express has connected their Cardmembers to their favorite designers, providing them with access to the fashion community beyond their activities at Bryant Park." American Express donates the proceeds from the sale of event invitations as part of its $250,000 donation to the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund (CVFF). The (CFDA) Council of Fashion Designers of America is a not-for-profit trade association of over 300 of America´s foremost fashion and accessory designers. Founded in 1962, the CFDA continues to advance the status of fashion design as a branch of American art and culture; to raise its artistic and professional standards; to define a code of ethical practices of mutual benefit in public and trade relations; and, to promote appreciation of the fashion arts through leadership in quality and aesthetic discernment.

Of course you want to go, next season! If you want to know about American Express Fashion Week events, first become an American Express Card Member. Then visit: http://www.americanexpress.com/entertainment