Crowd patrol

EACH season, fashion week in Los Angeles draws a motley crowd of eclectic fashion-scene staples. This time was no different as men and women alike stepped out in mixed patterns, plaid stovepipes, feathered fedoras and flamboyant specs.

Layering was the universal technique for the ladies -- fitted blazers over babydoll dresses and opaque tights; loose, flowy tunics over tanks; and sweet crocheted tops over solid basics. The mod look was also strongly represented. Shift dresses, A-line skirts and perky jumpers all at thigh-grazing lengths were worn with patent-leather flats or a platform heel.

The men were working bold patterns in the most dapper way, topping off plaid wool jackets and pants with a sleek fedora or scarf. Super-skinny pants were still seen on the guys, but this time in dark rigid denim and houndstooth and pinstripe prints.

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-- Melissa Magsaysay