Stylish touch of spring from Lela Rose

One of the South's favorite go-to designers for pretty and stylish is bringing spring to Raleigh this week.

The entire spring 2009 collection of Lela Rose, known for her ladylike looks with modern touches, will be at Vermillion at North Hills on Wednesday and Thursday for a trunk show.

As is always the case at a Lela Rose trunk show, come prepared with an event -- a spring wedding or summer debutante party -- or a need -- the mother of the bride or groom -- in mind. The shows are usually full of dresses and gowns that work for a variety of special events.

This spring, look for a little twist -- literally -- to Rose's typical silhouette.

Rose said her inspiration for the collection was "Out of Africa" by way of 10021, the Park Avenue ZIP code in New York City. Specifically, she was thinking about portraits she has seen of African women from the '50s and '60s.

"I loved all the mixing of patterns and colors," she said. "The collection has a tribal feel that's not too literally done. It's still very modern and very Lela Rose."

You'll see more of that African influence in the twisting and wrapping on some dresses designed to mimic African headdresses. "We wrapped the fabric but not so that it looks like you're wearing a toga," she said.

The colors are the real standout in the collection for spring, including brilliant pops of orange, yellow and blue, including crisp cobalt and deep sapphire. "They're just amazing colors mixed together," Rose said.

Rose's look for spring includes comfy sportswear, party dresses, ladylike suits and her trademark gowns.

Appointments are encouraged. Call 787-9780.

Around town

A Distinctive Image is having a Burn Your Bra event today from 9 a.m. to noon and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Phase II Personal Training Center on Departure Drive in Raleigh. The free bra fitting will help you pick a custom-fit bra from 133 cup sizes. Five percent of proceeds go to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Schedule an appointment by calling 872-8007 or e-mailing kate@adistinctiveimage.com.

Elaine Miller Collection at North Hills is having a trunk show by Elizabeth Locke today from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Locke's classic pieces are inspired by Roman and Greek mythologies and are crafted using 19K hand-hammered gold.

Scout & Molly's at North Hills is having an event Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. to raise money for Interact of Wake County, which supports victims and survivors of domestic violence. The store is partnering with Le Blanc Image Consulting and Event Planning for a style party.

Bring in a bag of used women's or children's clothing or make a donation of $25 or more and get 20 percent off all purchases during the party. The event also kicks off a four-day French Connection trunk show at the store.