Fashion Week El Paseo 2018: Your Guide to Couture Runway Glamour in Palm Desert
Marking its 13th year of stunning runway shows, chic looks, and stylish events, Fashion Week El Paseo returns March 17–24, 2018, at The Gardens on El Paseo in Palm Desert. Recognized as the West Coast's largest consumer fashion show, this premier annual event showcases the latest trends, top designers, cocktail receptions, trunk shows, and exceptional shopping experiences in Greater Palm Springs.
Here's your essential guide to the season's most glamorous fashion event.
What
Fashion Week El Paseo is an eight-day celebration of fashion, featuring renowned and emerging designers from around the world. Open to the public and all ages, the event includes eight runway shows highlighting haute couture.
When
The event runs from Saturday, March 17, to Saturday, March 24, 2018, with reception doors opening at 6:30 p.m. most nights.
Where
All action unfolds at the Fashion Week Tents in The Gardens on El Paseo, on the upper-level parking deck west of Saks Fifth Avenue.
Event Overview
“Fashion Week El Paseo stands out from other shows because designers and brands present their latest collections while making them immediately available for consumers to view and purchase,” says Paulina Larson, Marketing Director at Palm Springs Life.
Unlike trade-only events, this one welcomes the public, offering an exclusive yet accessible fashion experience.
Runway Shows & Trunk Shows
Kick off each evening with cocktail receptions before the runway shows—perfect for mingling, light entertainment, and showcasing your style. Then, witness the latest men's and women's trends live on the catwalk. Trunk shows follow the next day.
“Most shows feature trunk shows where attendees can try on pieces, consult directly with designers, and shop collections—sometimes including extras from other lines,” Larson explains.
Event Tip: Miss a show? Trunk shows offer runway excitement, shopping, and designer meet-and-greets—free and open to the public.
Featured Designers & Events
Experience a stellar lineup of top designers at Fashion Week El Paseo 2018.
Saturday, March 17
Opening Night's California Dreamin' showcases California talents: Trina Turk, Mr. Turk, Michael Costello, and Ali Rahimi for Mon Atelie.
Sunday, March 18
Le Chien presents Le Dogue en Vogue delights dog lovers (with leashed pets welcome), benefiting the Humane Society of the Desert via a live auction.
Monday, March 19
Scenes From El Paseo highlights Spring 2018 collections from local boutiques: BB.one, Eileen Fisher, El Paseo Jewelers, Mares Menswear, Out of Your Closet, Tommy Bahama, Johnny Was, and Uno de 50.
Tuesday, March 20
Morning Meet & Greet with Michael Costello and Project Runway friends, moderated by Palm Springs Life Fashion Editor Susan Stein—free and open to all.
Evening: Costello and Project Runway alums debut exclusive collections.
Wednesday, March 21
Alice + Olivia Fashion Show brings edgy prints, flattering fits, and feminine vintage vibes.
Thursday, March 22
FIDM Debut Collections spotlights nine alumni from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (Los Angeles).
Friday, March 23
Saks Fifth Avenue presents Carolina Herrera Collections—pre-fall and fall 2018 elegance.
Saturday, March 24
Closing: Ralph Rucci's modern couture, with presentation inspired by Dior and Balenciaga.
Special Event Features
New: Eve’s Garden Exhibition (March 17–20). Free public hours: March 18 (11 a.m.–2 p.m.); March 19–20 (11 a.m.–4 p.m.). Features artist-designed gowns from recycled materials symbolizing women's spirit.
Philanthropic Fashion
Many shows support Coachella Valley charities like the Fashion Scholarship Fund, The GirlFriend Factor, Junior League of Palm Springs Desert Communities, Palm Valley School, and Humane Society of the Desert.
Ticket Info
Family-friendly and public-welcoming. Buy tickets online for reserved/general seating (prices vary nightly), VIP, or all-access passes. Students: $35 onsite with ID.
For more fashion in Greater Palm Springs, explore the ultimate guide to vintage shopping.
