NEW YORK, Oct 13, 2009 / FW/ — Just when we thought that the fashion season is done and we could rest for a bit, Harlem’s Fashion Row (HFR) announces that it will be holding its second annual invite-only runway presentation featuring the collections for four emerging designers – Dinna Soliman, Lialia, Jose Durán and Epperson (of Project Runway season six).

Harlem's Fashion Row

“I am fully supportive of the long-term vision for Harlem’s Fashion Row and believe it will be as noteworthy and credible as New York Fashion Week,” said Epperson, designer and cast member of Project Runway season six.

“As an established designer and Harlem native, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase my collection with the support of the fashion industry and Harlem community,” Epperson added.

The event will he held on October 15, 2009 at The Gatehouse, located at 150 Convent Avenue (at 135th Street) in Harlem.

Dinna Soliman

Dinna Soliman’s eponymous collection utilizes a blend of technical elements, fused with feminine silhouettes, to create a new,sexy look for contemporary fashion. The latest Spring 2009 collection, “Modern Survival,” embodies the essence of the outdoors and translates it into everyday urban life.

Dinna Soliman has a rich background in the fashion industry and studied design at the Fashion Institute of Technology. By employing her talent and passion, Dinna was able to cultivate a thriving career as a designer for a variety of major apparel brands. After gathering six years of industry experience, Dinna successfully launched her debut line. For more information, visit www.dinnasoliman.com.

Lialia

Lialia (pronounced Lee-AHH-lia) is a cleverly crafted namesake line from designers Julia and Natalia Alarcon. Two sisters with individual personalities combined the harmonizing elements in their names and shared creative vision to create Lialia— a modern interpretation of classic elegance. Cited by WWD as one of the top emerging designers in 2008, Lialia designs are meticulously constructed creations designed from every angle.

Fused with hints of the designers’ Spanish heritage, Lialia translates their experiences from Parsons School of Design, where they studied under the likes of Crstof Beaufays, Creative Assistant to Jean Paul Gaultier. The team also worked at the houses of Oscar de la Renta, Phi and Reyes, fusing these influences into their own distinct design sensibilities. The result is a versatile collection of richly detailed, tailored, high-end day and eveningwear.

In addition to Women’s Wear Daily, their work has been featured in Papierdoll, Latina, Monocle and Fashion Windows. Gen Art selected them as one of the Fresh Faces in Fashion of 2008. For more information, please visit www.lialiacollection.com

Jose Durán

Jose Durán is one of New York’s most distinctive young artists. The avant-garde designs from his collections are inspired by a church massacre which took place in the designer’s hometown during the Haitian revolution. Durán’s creations combine artificial structures with vibrantly colored satins and wool crepes to create a powerful ready-to-wear-collection. Durán has designed for fashion industry icon Amanda Lepore and has been featured in several indie fashion magazines. For more information, visit www.joseduran.net.

Epperson

Epperson began his career in fashion by following a “crush” to a design class. His desire to be near a “beautiful girl” led him to his life’s work. That same passion and drive is infused into every princess dress, patchwork skirt or “rough ruffled” gown. After working independently for years Epperson opened his first retail space in Brooklyn’s booming Fort Greene community. This was followed by a five year run in SoHo, which led to his current studio space in Chelsea. There, he services a private clientele and operates a developing and successful wholesale business.

Epperson credits amongst his clients Erykah Badu, Patti Labelle, Cassandra Wilson and R&B recording artist Ciara. He has been a long time collaborator with the Complexions Dance Company and was commissioned to design costumes for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and Julliard Dance Ensemble. Epperson is currently featured on Lifetime’s Project Runway season six.

The evening’s schedule is as follows:

6:30pm
Photographer Check-in

7:00pm
Doors open to VIPs and media

7:45pm
Doors open to general ticket holders

8:00pm
Runway Presentation

Reserved seating will be available for invited VIPs and media. Non-media attendees will be able to pre-purchase tickets to the show at www.ticketleap.com (search Harlem’s Fashion Row)