"Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say, and not giving a damn." – Gore Vidal.

by Maria Pardalis

This quote perfectly describes the fall/winter 2011 Villionaire runway presentation by Richie Rich during Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week at Hammerstein Ballroom on February 10, 2011. Richie enlisted long-time friend and couture designer Angelo Lambrou to serve as this season’s design director. “Angelo’s atelier, on East 7th Street, is down the block from my first fashion house,” explains Rich. “I’ve always respected his work and given his downtown sophistication, he understands the Villionaire perfectly,” says Rich.

Rich and Lambrou certainly were the ideal dynamic duo. Lambrou, who was born in Southern Africa to Greek Cypriot parents, brought his signature high-end classy touch to Rich’s downtown party girl. Asymmetrical beaded cocktail dresses, revealing mesh tops, Swarovski-encrusted silk jersey fabric, sexy leather bustiers, and slinky silhouettes were perfectly combined with Lambrou’s couture aesthetic to create a more refined look that was still very fun and funky.

Never has a fashion show had so much life, pure punk, creativity and been full of surprises. Amazing appearances were made down the catwalk by Tinsley Mortimer, world figure skating champion Johnny Weir and even JWOWW! The crowd was equally as impressive. Gracing the front row was the legendary fashion icon Patricia Field, Rod Stewart, New York Social Diary’s Roger Webster, pop star Kat De Luna, as well as many other NYC socialites. All I can say is, Angelo you made us Greek Americans very proud! What a show and can’t wait for next year!

For more information on Villionaire click here for a link to all of the show’s looks.

For info on Angelo Lambrou, check out his website: http://www.angelolambrou.com

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