Daily Front Row

2008 December 17

Elise's Sneak Peek

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Elise Øverland and Annelise Peterson
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(LOS ANGELES) Tucked away on Melrose Avenue, the recently-opened Arcade Boutique, owned by Rochelle Gores, hosted an intimate cocktail and shopping hour on Tuesday night in honor of designer Elise Øverland’s spring collection.

“It was a bit of a last minute situation, but I thought, ‘Why not have an event in L.A.?’ I know you’re not supposed to show spring just yet, but I never follow the rules anyway!” Øverland laughed. “I have mainly private clients, but we wanted to really focus on building our presence on the west coast before things get too crazy with the next collection. I never get to spend any time in California. After this, I’m off to dinner at The Bazaar at the new SLS Hotel with Annelise (Peterson).”

A smattering of stylists, editors and socials stopped in to greet the designer, shop rare samples and score a sneak peek of the collection, which was also available for pre-order. Stylist Lee Harris breezed in long enough to kiss Øverland and snap up an embellished black sheath dress, while Becks Welch followed suit not long after. “I’m working with Isla Fisher right now, and with Confessions of a Shopaholic coming out, it’s a great opportunity for her to expand her fashion smarts and take some risks on the red carpet. She doesn’t obsess over fashion, but she has a great eye and I know she’ll probably love Elise’s stuff for premieres coming up,” the stylist commented knowingly.

While guests nibbled on miniature cupcakes compliments of Joan’s on Third and sipped the signature champagne and ginger cognac cocktail by Domaine de Canton, Nicky Hilton focused on the fashion. “I love the clothes…it’s gothic in a tasteful, subtle way. Not overdone,” she offered. “I’m buying this python mini skirt tonight and I’m thinking about ordering the leather leggings. They’re amazing." (She wasn't the only one--even at $1,400, they were flying off the shelves.) "They're like butter on your legs!”
JENNIFER CHAN