I have to admit that I didn’t know a lot about Kevan Hall before I decided to write a post about his Spring 2008 runway show. His was a name that floated about in the recesses of my mind, but I wasn’t quite sure why and I didn’t have a clear view of who he was as a designer. However, I strongly believe in supporting and exposing people to African-American designers, so I was all about finding out who he is and why I should care.

First, the resume. He made his bones when he served as Design and Creative Director for the hallowed house of Halston from Fall 1998 to Spring 2000. He then left to start his own line — Kevan Hall Collection, which has graced the frames of Hollywood posh girls like Kimberly Elise, Angela Bassett, and Katherine Heigel. Hall consistently creates red carpet success stories including dressing a not-so-desperate housewife, Felicity Huffman, when she picked up her 2005 Emmy win in one of his dresses.

For Spring 2008, Kevan Hall’s show was all about a trip to the Motherland and came complete with traditional beadwork, dancing children and African stilt walkers. More than just theatrics, Hall’s show and luxury gift bag auction was also meant to bring support for African charities.

The out of Africa theme ran through the clothing too. Hall presented sumptuous fabrics in earthy colors taken directly from the dark continent — rich reds, deep browns, sunrise pinks and oranges. A cowrie shell belt and pheasant feather shrug accessorized a simple mocha colored gown. Two of my favorite looks were the knee length dress that took its pattern from African mudcloth and Eugenia’s red and blue Masai-inspired gown.

Previously — Blacks in Fashion Panel Discussion

I’m not doing a full coverage on LA Fashion Week. Why? Because…well, it’s LA and I’m just not that into her. But if something worthy of my attention comes up, I’ll share it. M’kay?

Like Randolph Duke. He’s been MIA from the runway circuit for 7 years, but remains a red carpet staple worn by names like Julia, Halle, and Hillary (Swank, not future Commander in Chief). So as such, many of the looks were floor-length, sweeping gowns. However, he also turned out some impressive daywear and cocktail numbers. My favorite pieces were a pewter metallic gown fashioned over a transparent charcoal sheath (which he also re-created in a shorter, tunic-length number) as well as a one-shoulder, ivory goddess gown that shimmered and flowed down the runway. Pay attention, because you’ll definitely see these dresses on the red carpet on the backs of some of Hollywood’s glam gals.

Oh and he also introduced us to Eugenia’s breasts (slightly NSFW).

Previously — ANTM Eugenia for Randolph Duke