STUDIO CITY–The Arpa Foundation for Film, Music, and Art on June 16 staged a fashion show benefit to raise money for the 10th Annual Arpa International Film Festival (November 2-4, 2007 at the Egyptian Theater). As a non-profit Armenian art organization, the fashion show allows AFFMA to promote designers of fashion, jewelry, and accessories – as well as to host a social event on a scale that befits Los Angeles, the capital of entertainment.
AFFMA must raise upwards of $75,000 throughout the year to stage the film festival. Not a small task given that Los Angeles has hundreds of festivals throughout the year. While AFFMA hosts networking mixers, art shows, and membership drives to raise money, their biggest event is the annual fashion show. This year AFFMA featured vintage designer Marc Joseph and couture designer Ari Sheuhmelian. Also, 12 fashion boutiques were also presented. Fantasy of Fashion is AFFMA’s way of promoting talented young Armenian designers.
The highlight of the event was Ari Sheuhmelian’s stunning Pogah couture collection of evening wear. Patrons were left breathless by his flowing, glamorous designs. More than 300 people attended the fashion show and luncheon at the Sheraton Universal Hotel. It was emceed by K-Mozart radio’s Laura Brodian. Celebrity and TV star Sharon Lawrence, from the popular serieses "Hidden Palms" and "Monk" attended as a guest of the designer.
