FASHION : Everything’s Coming Up Oldham in L.A.

It looks as if 1996 will turn out to be fashion designer Todd Oldham’s year. In February, the boyish, Texas-born designer opens his Los Angeles boutique, and in May he’ll be honored at the California Fashion Industry’s Friends of AIDS Project Los Angeles 10th annual fashion show benefit.

The curved-front store, at Beverly Boulevard and Martel Avenue, will carry Oldham’s ready-to-wear and Times 7 lines, plus his fragrance, accessories and shoes.

The design will be based somewhat on the eclectic decor at Oldham’s SoHo store, but with a twist.

“This is Hollywood,” said the designer from his New York studio, “so we’ll have to go a little more over the top, a pumped-up version, a little more luxe.”

Oldham’s stamp will also be on the APLA fashion show, which will include a retrospective of his clothes dating back six or seven years.

“We keep everything,” he said. “We have the original Mona Lisa skirt and the mirror dresses.”

He’s also planned some “special” entertainment and promised a unique venue for the benefit.

“I’d love to do a circus tent, something that would give it a festive feel and some good, raucous fun.”

Oldham was the benefit committee’s choice because of his commitment to AIDS causes, said Mike Ankatell, the event’s founder and executive chairman.

“We felt he is one designer who has done more for people with AIDS,” said Ankatell, “in terms of making a commitment and getting involved and not being afraid to connect himself to this whole holocaust.”

Added Oldham: “I think doing the show is very special, but my greatest thrill is to help raise a big old chunk of money for people who need it desperately.”