South Coast Plaza celebrates 50 years with runway shows

South Coast Plaza continued to host 50th anniversary celebrations this month with exclusive runway shows featuring luxury designers showcasing fashions and trends.

The first of three fashion events — hosted in The Pavilion, a newly constructed tented venue adjacent to Saks Fifth Avenue and Bear Street — began with the Harvesters’ 25th annual fashion show and luncheon Oct. 5. Proceeds benefited Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County.

The following evening, the retail center partnered with Harper’s Bazaar — which is marking its 150th anniversary year. Executive fashion and beauty editor Avril Graham helped spotlight the fall collections of 12 luxury designers, such as Fendi, Max Mara, Oscar de la Renta and Salvatore Ferragamo.

Designer John Varvatos debuted his fall and winter collection Oct. 7 to benefit Anaheim Ducks Foundation, with proceeds donated to Children’s Hospital Orange County.

Signature Varvatos looks, such as washed velvets, hand-burnished leathers and tonal stripes, graced the runway. Varvatos drew inspiration from exotic animal finishes, Dandyism and razor-sharp silhouettes.

The “Wild at Heart” fashion show that premiered during New York Fashion Week 2017 ended with an after-party with live music by Vintage Trouble.

South Coast Plaza boutiques will host in-store events all month. Luxury brands, including Miu Miu and Harry Winston, will display customized exhibits in the Jewel Court.

Restaurants will offer special menus and dishes. The month will conclude with an appearance by the world-renowned Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra at Segerstrom Center for the Arts on Oct. 30.

For more information, visit southcoastplaza.com.

kathleen.luppi@latimes.com

Twitter: @KathleenLuppi