The Philly Collection Kicks Off!

Finally, the Philly fashion event of the year has arrived. For the next seven days, The Philadelphia Collection will celebrate the city’s ever-expanding fashion and design community with an array of events all over town—from runway shows, lectures and panel discussions to cocktail parties, film screenings and trunk shows.

Most of the 75 events scheduled are free and open to the public and speaking from experience, I highly recommend hitting as many as you can. I mean, how often do you get to see a live runway show or rub elbows with the most stylish folks in Philly? You’d also be surprised just how many fun, not-so fancy schmancy events they have planned.

Tomorrow, we’ll be giving you a rundown of some of the must-see weekend events. In the meantime, here’s a few of the kick-off festivities going down tonight…

Girls Night Out: South Moon Under and Philadelphia Weekly are teaming up for a shopping bash equipped with drinks, appetizers, music and a beauty bar where ladies can enjoy mini makeovers and nail art. Should you make a purchase during the event, you’ll receive 20 percent off as well as a chance to win gift cards and several other prizes. 7-9:30pm. South Moon Under, 1731 Chestnut St.

Spruce Up Your Wardrobe: Shop, sip and socialize with the designers behind the Skai Blue Show showroom. Both designers and guests will be live tweeting and sharing photos throughout the evening and you might even pick up a few tips on what it takes to start your own fashion label. A portion of the proceeds from sales will be donated to The Spruce Foundation. 6-8pm. Skai Blue Media, 109 S. 13th St., Suite 119A

Carmelita Couture Trunk Show: CJ Shopping Tours and Carmelita Couture are joining forces to host a unique come trunk show in an even more unique venue with refreshments and some professional style tips. 12-8pm. Coca Cola House, 433 Spruce St.

A Day In Paris: Can you believe Joan Shepp is turning 40 this month? To celebrate the high-end Center City boutique showcasing such amazing French designers as Balenciaga, Cedric Charlier, Jean Paul Gaultier and Givenchy. Perhaps you’ve heard of them? Oh, and of course there will be French music, food and wine. 12-8pm. Joan Shepp, 1616 Walnut St.

Duke & Winston Showroom Grand Opening: From living room to showroom, the NoLibs showroom is now open to the public. This all-day open house will feature the brands new fall line. During the evening, guests will be treated to appetizers and cocktails. Duke & Winston, 633 N. Second St.

“Happily Ever After” Happy Hour: Walking down the isle any time soon? Best for the Best of Bridal Boutique will show you all their beautiful selection fashion accessories including jewelry, bags, hair, trousseau and lingerie. 4:30-7:30pm. Scarlett Alley, 241 Race St.

Designer Trunk Show & Celebrate Wine Tasting: In addition to a holiday preview of the affordable luxury lifestyle brand ellelauri, Pileggi Boutique will be hosting a trunk show from Cayetano Legacy Collection, a line of women’s jewelry and handbags marked by beautiful sourced materials from the Philippine Islands. Also, guests can explore an array of fine of wines by Celebrate Wine. 5-7pm. Pileggi Boutique, 715 Walnut St.

Dress & Design: Though the event described as simply “a collaboration of graffiti and art,” isn’t that all the description you really need? 6-8pm. Millésimé, 41 S. Third St.

Check the Philly Collection’s Web site for the complete list of events and follow them on Twitter for all the daily updates (@PhilaCollection)