(Los Angeles) Maybe a little of both. Random celebrities, antsy sponsors and fashion idolizers of all kinds gathered outside Smashbox Studies on October 18, 2005 for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. They came for a preview of the Antik Denim spring 2006 collection but got a rock show instead.

As the lights dimmed the crowd could not keep to keep themselves contained in their seats. Uproars burst as the models sprang from the curtains, sporting gravity-defying Mohawks and provocative denim. Edginess leaked off the stage as models strutted vintage distressed denim, low cut blue jeans, compiled skirts and even canteens and gun holsters. Some complimented their jeans and skirts with denim and leather tops-and some did not wear tops at all. Topless-ness resumed as barely adorned female models brandished Native American-warrior inspired tops that flapped across their chests and short cut navy officer jackets. 

All the attitude and skin of a rock show was present. They even simulated the interlude near the end of a rock concert, where the band pretends its over, thanks the audience and exits, but then comes out to play 3 more ravishing songs. This duplication was accomplished by giant spotlights that the models ran over the audience only to distract us from the most eccentric finale since Pink Flamingos. All eyes veered to the daisy-duked model as she sensuously rode a mechanical bull above numerous painted dancers. It all came to an end as all the models made there way out and our wild rider met the designers, Alexandre Caugant and Philippe Naouri, on the catwalk. After it all only one thing troubled me; was the mechanical bull going to attend the after party across the street? 
 

Kendrick C. Osorio, the shows producer and Tal Karasso, the art director, had full responsibility for the production of this show and deserve all the accolades' for this upbeat shows production. Osorio found the terrific models during a six day cast, searching far and wide even taking him to Las Vegas! Osorio was given the contract on October 14! A show of this quality would usually take 3-4 months to put such a high end production together. Osorio had the help of Nicole DeWeese, his production manager, who did everything he did not have time to do, a right hand person in the true sense. Karasso, who had been a fashion photographer for over 17 years, had the vision as seen through the eyes of a photographer. Together, Osorio and Karasso were able to implement their vision to bring Antik Denim to 'the next level'. Justin Monroe of Alan Edwards, took 2 1/2 weeks to get the hair just perfect. Eric Berg, the stylist, hired only a week and a half before the show, instructed by Osorio, used all his resources to shape the line, to pump it up, and along with the designers did just that! Another integral part of this team of talented individuals was Karl Giant from Smashbox Cosmetics who added his magical makeup touch to complete the vision. Finally, Rand Sagers, legendary set designer with credits of Janet Jackson's 'All for You' and Britney Spears 'Toxic' and 'Luck' Videos among others performed his magic as the set designer.  

The highest credit goes to none other than the dual designers, Alexandre Caugant and Philippe Naouri. Combining a mix of urban cowboy and Japanese spirited clothing they have created a whole new meaning to the expression, being a 'T-shirt and jeans type of guy (or girl)'. The Spring 2006 collection contrives a dual reality of  premium fashion actually able to be worn on a daily basis, unlike what is offered by other innovative designers of their class.

If the world of fashion has been conquered by denim, then Alexandre Caugant and Philippe Naouri should be elected the new prime ministers of the United Kingdom of Denim.

pictures by Getty Images 

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