L.A. fashions its own awards for industry

The first Los Angeles Fashion Awards were held Friday at the Orpheum Theatre downtown, hosted by red carpet pundit Melissa Rivers. Created by a fashion publicist and an event planner, the annual event is being held to “elevate the industry,” said co-producer Jennifer Uner.

Petro Zillia designer Nony Tochterman won an award for innovation.

Rose Apodaca, West Coast bureau chief for Women’s Wear Daily, was recognized for her role in communicating L.A. style to the world.

American Apparel founder Dov Charney, who has sold a million T-shirts with suggestive ads, was recognized for marketing excellence, and Rosemary Brantley, the tireless chairwoman of fashion design at L.A.’s Otis College of Art and Design, received the Inspiration Award.

Among other winners was designer Trina Turk, celebrated with the Achievement Award for her 10-year tenure in the business.