The saying goes, “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” But for those attending the third night of Fashion Week El Paseo 2025, that couldn’t have been more fitting. The crowd arrived dressed as though they were ready to strut down the runway themselves. The show had already begun before the lights even dimmed.
When the lights went down at the Summer Colony Living Presents LaQuan Smith showcase—sponsored by Jon and Donna Croel and benefiting the Desert Cancer Foundation—guests were treated to a fusion of neutral tones and monochromatic outfits, soon giving way to a bold, empowering roar.
LaQuan Smith, the 36-year-old designer who was born and raised in New York City, showcased daring designs that transitioned from soft khaki hues in flowing and structured pieces—many with youthful short skirts—into an empowered, fierce collection full of confidence.
His “Animalistic Glamour” collection captured attention not just through striking designs, but through intricate details—reptilian prints, waves of feathers, and sheer lace that hugged the body like a second skin. The models’ movements brought each piece to life, evoking an animalistic spirit and awakening a sensual, instinctive side.
Smith’s creations are transformative, offering fearless fashion for those bold enough to embrace it. Every look echoed his “unapologetically glamorous aesthetic,” the philosophy he has woven into his brand since launching LaQuan Smith at the age of 21.
Susan Stein, the director of Fashion Week El Paseo, shared her admiration for Smith’s journey. “He grew up in Queens, New York, where he designs and manufactures,” Stein said. “His grandmother taught him how to sew, and he bypassed formal fashion school to start his career just a few years after high school. His debut at New York Fashion Week came two years later, and it was clear that he was born with extraordinary talent. His unique aesthetic blends edginess with sophistication.”
Smith’s designs have attracted the attention of some of the world’s biggest stars, including Nicki Minaj, Hailey Bieber, Khloe Kardashian, Beyoncé, and Vice President Kamala Harris. He’s also created looks for award shows (such as Paris Jackson at the Golden Globes), magazine covers (Blake Lively for Vogue, Colman Domingo for GQ, Serena Williams for Essence), and style icons like Usher, Lenny Kravitz, Brooke Shields, and Dita Von Teese.
The designer has always drawn inspiration from strong, supportive women. “I am constantly inspired by the powerful women in my life,” Smith said. “I want them to feel powerful, sexy, and feminine.”
This powerful essence was embodied in the show, where bodies were celebrated through the perfect blend of form, fit, and fabric. The music pounded like a heartbeat, while designs—strapless, backless, and daringly revealing—pushed the boundaries of desire and what it means to be the center of attention. Bright electric yellow contrasted with the black satin, white lace, pale pink organza, and earth-toned khaki to create a collection full of energy. W magazine described the collection as “teeny hemlines” paired with “bodycon silhouettes” and cheeky cuts that nearly bared it all.
While Smith has built his reputation on making women feel like superheroes, his collection also offered stylish pieces for men. A men’s khaki jacket with wide lapels paired with fluid tank tops and wide khaki pants showcased an effortlessly stylish fusion of comfort and fashion.
For some attendees, this was their first introduction to Smith’s work. However, a dedicated group of followers had traveled far to witness the show. After all, who could resist a designer who embraces transparency as a hot topic and dedicates an entire section of his website to catsuits?
Debra Carrington, the owner of Summer Colony Living on El Paseo and the show’s curator, expressed her pride in Smith’s achievements. “As an African American woman, I’m incredibly proud of what LaQuan has accomplished,” she said. “We come from communities where the odds were against us, so I truly understand his journey. He’s young, innovative, and has dressed some of the world’s most influential people.” Carrington also highlighted Smith’s latest milestone: his collaboration with Puma, calling it another step in his impressive trajectory in the fashion world.
The show concluded with three avant-garde wedding couture looks. Two shimmering white jackets were paired with flared pants and dramatically slit skirts. The final look sent the bride down the aisle in a strapless, high-cut bodysuit, complemented by bicep-high white gloves and a cathedral-length veil—one last fearless statement from a true fashion lioness.
To shop LaQuan Smith’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, as seen on the Fashion Week El Paseo runway, visit Summer Colony Living for a personal consultation today, from 12:30 to 3 p.m., at 73061 El Paseo, Suite 6, Palm Desert.
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