I need a word with the organizers of Pitti's runway shows. Last season, I was served flutes of champagne and lovely hors d' oeuvres before the children hit the kitten walk. This time - nothing! Not even a cracker. What they did provide, were some highly theatrical productions. Although none of the shows rivaled a Stephen Speilberg spectacle, some packed plenty of entertainment value. The giant phone that hung on the stage at Nolita Pocket and was answered by one of the models had a surreal quality; Miss Blumarine featured beach cabanas and a sand covered runway with the romantic quality of a vintage postcard; and the miniature poodles that accompanied models down the Miss Grant runway turned each little girl into a mini celebrity. Gas blew the stops out with a real rugby field, bleachers, a live game and an awards ceremony. And, yes, they showed fashions, too.

The shows were held over two days, breaking up the rounds of cocktail parties, booth events and, of course, perusing the collections.

FRIDAY JUNE 29, 2007

MISS BLUMARINE

Gaily striped beach cabanas perched on the stage while models kicked their way across a sand covered kitten walk. The theme was casual, breezy, just right for the beach items.

The models emerged from the cabanas before hitting the runway.

An updated polo and new take on blue and white.

Keeping it clean at the beach.

Pretty in pink.

Mixing the season's hottest colors produces a soft bouquet.

Taming the beast with lilacs.

Silver sensation.

Runway photos courtesy of Giovanni Gonnani.

Originally published July 15, 2007