NYC Events Are a Fashion Model for Escondido Economic Push

New York's Fashion Week and Restaurant Week are long-standing glamorous events in the "capitol of cool," drawing crowds and imprinting consumers with the hippest "must-haves" and "must-tastes." Perhaps its influence makes an imprint on more than style-mongers and foodies on the East Coast, for in contrast to an image of farm markets and suburban bliss, event organizers in the city of Escondido borrowed New York's model for the ultimate chic week to promote visibility, image, and the economy of Escondido.

Fashion week events took place May 5-May 10 at the former H. Johnson Furniture building, and kicked off with a launch party that included wine tasting and music. The rest of the week featured runway shows, charity events, home and spa displays, and an environmental art show promoting "green" materials, along with local talent, food and wares. The headliner of the week-long event was Escondido's own Ricky Lizalde, a contestant on last season's "Project Runway" whose success since the show has included line placement in glamorous department stores and boutiques. Escondido's week of style and food showcased all Escondido has to offer to people from all over the State of California.