Fashionable futures

Cher should have been there. The highlight of the Otis College of Art and Design’s annual fundraising gala at the Beverly Hilton was the feather-flecked, Native American-inspired runway show of student designs produced under the tutelage of guest mentor Bob Mackie. Of particular note: a suede evening gown, backless except for a crystal dream catcher.

The May 7 dinner for 900, now in its 23rd year, raised a record-breaking $1 million for art and design scholarships. Guests included Christina Ricci, Adam Goldberg and Cindy Crawford, who wore a gown she picked up during the silent auction at last year’s gala.

Menswear designer Jade Howe, another guest mentor, said the experience of teaching the junior class was unparalleled in his career. “Seeing the women’s wear that came out of these students totally floored me,� he said. So much so that Howe was inspired to launch his own women’s collection, which will be in stores for next spring.

-- Booth Moore