Fashion Week in LA may feel a bit like a whimper this season, but that was definitely not the case last night at the opening of Concept FW at Ace Gallery. On the whole, patrons were rocking (and we do mean rocking) black garb, skinny jeans and unencumbered but cute and casual dresses and separates. Bedhead tresses and tats were the for the most part, the flashiest accessories for this crowd.

The indie-chic looks were likely due to the night's presentation, a showcase of bewitching all-black garb by Henry Duarte on two live rock bands: The Meek and The Black Ryder. See our review of their sets on West Coast Sound and check out our hot pics -and get the skinny on Concept's new home- right here.

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Concept's move from downtown to the Miracle Mile was a surprise (a mutation of previous fashion collectives and shows involving developer Brady Westwater, it's been somewhat synonymous with the Downtown art scene).

The new locale actually amplified and elevated the artsy vibe thanks to the great space (owned by Duarte pal/noted gallerist Doug Christmas) and captivating video projections of Paul Young. The exhibits at Ace -across the street from the El Rey Theatre- include works and large-scale installations by the likes of The Date Farmers and Justin Bower. They're quite amazing and we encourage art lovers to pay the place a visit even if they don't make it there this weekend.

Interactive art inspired by live artists' interpretation of "zoo" will take place at Ace each night.; Credit: Lina Lecaro

Interactive art inspired by live artists' interpretation of “zoo” will take place at Ace each night.; Credit: Lina Lecaro

The Date Farmers real, working "Tequila Bar" installation.; Credit: Lina Lecaro

The Date Farmers real, working “Tequila Bar” installation.; Credit: Lina Lecaro

Still, this is the weekend to go if you're looking for a scene. Concept's roster of events are sure to make it the design destination of the 2011 Fall season. Based on our past experiences at their shows, highlights will include martinMARTIN's installation on Friday, Jen Awad's runway show (last night, she told us it will be inspired by her Egyptian heritage and scarabs… cool!) and Curly-V's wing-thing on Saturday. Skin.Graft's presentation is sure to attract crowds on Sunday, and Fremont will close out the series of runway shows later that evening. See full Concept schedule here and more hot frocks from last night below.

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Credit: Lina Lecaro

Follow Lina Lecaro on Twitter at @L_in_A.

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