Boulevard3 on Sunset was fashion’s favorite venue this Memorial Weekend as multiple designers showcased their work in a "Battle of the Designers," but it was the finale on Sunday, featuring the work of hair and make up artist Sheena Mi Lee, that made this Alice feel as if I stepped into Wonderland.

My rabbit hole, a contrast of dark wood and white canvas; blue fire setting the mood for the next 3 hours as I am swept up in Asian-cultured artistry.

Walk into the Queen’s court and see a video montage of how the magic is done. From start to finish we see Sheena transform head after head of ringlets into works of art.

As the lights go dark appears the Cheshire Cat. Accompanying her smile, a drum. Dressed in an elaborately embroidered Han-Buk (Korean traditional dress), of white, maroon, yellow, and green the crowd is transfixed on her movement at the end of the runway. Swift beats, precise turns, her colors swirl, and with a bang and a smile she is gone as quickly as she came.

Enter the models in cocktail dresses by Sue Wong; their faces an explosion of color and jewels, their hair in intricate shapes and spirals. Giving a 1920‘s inspired feel are dropped waists, lace, feathers, and long pearl strands as models strut the catwalk.

Again the room goes black and in the darkness a voice says "And now a word from our sponsors" Dancing fairies (Kristie Reeves and Tracy Robinson) appear sporting only a tutu, butterfly wings painted on their backs and necks adorned with jewelry by Blue Heart Diamonds and Micha Designs. Choreographed by Kirstie Reeves, stretching their painted limbs the dancers kept us entertained and in anticipation for the eveningwear showcase.

Gold embossed prints, sparkling gems, and backless seduction, Sue Wong evening gowns are works of wearable art! A perfect compliment to the transformed make up of the models. Though I will admit some of the jewelry was a miss for me as large chunky pieces overtake the delicate dresses.

One more time with the dark (I’m getting annoyed), Alas the court arrives. There is a single spotlight on the runway and the Queen makes her entrance, gracing her court she walks down the runway showing her gratitude to us all. She takes a bow, the show is over.

I’m rushed out of the rabbit hole and back to the random clubbing world where everyone mispronounces my name. Oh! Are they playing Usher?

THE DETAILS: "ART MEETS FASHION" by Sheena Mi Lee

http://mibeautiful.com/

Story by Mei-Li Thomas.