Ecco Domani’s Early Breakfast of Champions

After long days of shows and longer nights of parties, an 8:30 am breakfast in the middle of fashion week is rather ambitious. But on Friday, the winners of the 2010 Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation Award seemed happy enough to sacrifice a few hours of sleep to be honored at ED’s intimate early morning ceremony.  2004 winner Derek Lam bestowed a few words of wisdom upon the emerging talents before Marylou Luthur, the editor of the International Fashion Syndicate, presented the awards. This year, Joseph Altuzarra, Prabal Guung, Ross Menuez of Salvor Projects and The Blondes’ Phillipe Rollano and David Trujillo won for women’s wear. Siki Im took the menswear category, while former Vogue editor Irini Arakas won the accessories award for her jewelry line, Prova. Last but not least, John Patrick won the EDFF’s first “sustainable fashion” award for his eco-chic line, Organic.

“I was trying to pinch myself this morning thinking, ‘Is this real?'” laughed John Patrick. “I’m really thankful to have the opportunity to tell my story and do my work and have the support of the industry. It makes me want to work even harder.” The Blondes, who promise that their Tuesday runway reveal will be “totally insane,” concur: “We’re so honored and grateful that Ecco Domani is doing this,” said Phillipe. David added that they hope to use their spoils to expand their line and bring their outrageous brand of glamour to the masses. “Right now we only dress modern showgirls like Rihanna, Katy (Perry) and Adam Lambert, lately. He’s a showgirl too!”