Fashion Week San Diego kicks off season with Spring Showcase in La Jolla

Fashion Week San Diego kicked off the 2026 season on April 24 in La Jolla with the Spring Showcase.

The event, now in its 19th year, remains the largest and longest fashion week on the West Coast. The kickoff took place at The Living Room Coffeehouse, a cozy café and lounge known for its artistic vibe.

“Our 19th year is focused on igniting our creative community,” said Gwen Bates, owner and executive director of FWSD.

The event was hosted by two emcees, who brought energy to the Spring Showcase: meteorologist Jodi Kodesh and television personality Jonathan Harris. The evening served as a first look at the designers selected for the Fall Runway shows in October. During the show, a two-time Grammy Award-winning baritone, Gabriel Manro, performed for the audience.

Designers presented a dynamic range of styles, igniting the runway. J.McLaughlin has returned, showing off timeless clothing, while Sergio Ynes blended art with decadent luxury. Grisham Manor showcased a country-western look, and MSTR STAG sent a male model down the runway in a head-to-toe cream colored outfit. GFASH highlighted statement jewelry, and Dii Designs presented its “Season of Love” collection.

Consette Von Lee, fresh from the Runway 7 stage in New York, debuted her latest creations. Timmithea, who introduced eco de corps, a line focused on circularity, showed a stylish slip dress. Bridal and event stylist, Angel Tan, presented a beautiful lavender ensemble. Celebrity designer Lizz Russell closed out the show with a striking black floral look from her resort wear collection.

Fashion Week San Diego is an annual bi-national event that includes a week-long Fall Runway Show, the Spring Showcase, and a series of monthly shows and workshops. The Fall Runway Show will take place on Oct. 2-3, featuring two nights of runway shows. For more tickets and event details, visit fashionweeksd.com.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the Southern California area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher, and podcaster at dianacavagnaro.com.