By Elizabeth Morales on September 6, 2012

After a successful inaugural show last fall, the La Catrina Show returns to the National Museum of Mexican Art. The fashion show named after an iconic representation of la calavera in the form of an elegant woman meant to represent beauty in death is a way Chicago designers have the chance to highlight their mexican culture using fashion as a medium. The debut fashion show last fall showcased Horacio Nieto, Gary Gonzales and Elda de la Rosa. Among the motifs seen throughout that night where somber nod’s to 70’s disco and an homage to Frida Kahlo’s French Vogue cover.

What differs from the inaugural show last september is the fact that this years fashion show features all female designers. The featured designers are Claudia Urrutia, Lilia Vega, Elizabeth Lara, and Elda de La Rosa.

Not new to the spotlight, Chicago designer Claudia Urrutia designs were first seen during Chicago Latino Fashion Week were her craftsmanship for faux-fur coats was highlighted.  Her specialty includes custom-made faux fur jackets and scarves, evening gowns and bridesmaid dresses.

A familiar face from the inaugural show accompanies the eclectic designer showcase. Elda de la Rosa, whose designs closed the fashion show last year with her romantic and elegant nod to the modern bride. Her minimalist palette consisted of ivorys, creme, black and burgundy shades added to the tasteful representation of la catrina. However, it was evident that her strong background in bridal couture was what made her collection breathtaking. A graduate of the School of the Art Institute, her designs are synonymous with elegance and a timeless femininity around the Chicagoland area. In regards to her design aesthetic, Elda de la Rosa explains, “I always look to the past for my inspiration, I’m not a modern designer, I’m not a trendy designer, I’m one that loves the classics and I love for my work to look timeless”.

La Catrina Fashion Show begins at 8:00pm at the National Museum of Mexican Art
Buy Tickets Here: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/265469

Check out our coverage of last year’s event!