Sue Wong celebrates her spring collection at home

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She may not do her extravagant runway shows anymore (think opera singers, belly dancers and sometimes up to 60 looks), but Sue Wong still knows how to work her opulent aesthetic into an event.

This afternoon she hosted about 50 friends and fans of her dresses at her home, the Cedars in Los Feliz, to show her Spring 2010 collection. Models floated through the crowd, who nibbled on tea sandwiches and scones, wearing Wong’s creations, which this season she calls Belle Époque.

That meant embellished gowns and cocktail dresses in springy greens and aquatic shades. “I was inspired by the impressionists.” Said Wong, who was dressed in a pleated Issey Miyake top and skirt and a hard-to-miss vintage Thierry Mugler cuff. “I’m girly for my work, but in reality I’m a very modern woman.”

Girly indeed. Season after season, Wong’s dresses generally look the same, with recycled references such as art deco, flappers and over-the-top bridal. But this is the first time in a while the dresses actually looked different and unexpected. The color palette was bright and optimistic, and the accessories felt edited and just right. Even the energy in the house was calm and lovely.

Who needs a runway? Wong’s dresses shine brighter with her impressive house as a backdrop.

-- Melissa Magsaysay