By DeAnn Lubell
The 16th Annual Desert Woman’s Show produced by Marlo Productions opens Saturday, February 17, at 10 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. at the Classic Club in Palm Desert. This extremely popular event draws in hundreds of individuals every year to enjoy a fun day of inspirational presentations, exciting fashion shows, plenty of great shopping, delicious food offerings, as well as craft beer, wines, and spirits.
If you are a golfer, you might want to sign up for the third annual Desert Woman’s Show charity golf tournament being held at the Classic Club’s golf course that same day. There is virtually something for everyone. Headlining the show is international fashion designer and reality television personality Michael Costello.
Costello, who started drawing dresses on his bedroom walls at only two years old, got his start in fashion design when he opened a clothing boutique at the tender age of 15 on North Palm Canyon in Palm Springs. He had a keen eye for what would look good on his clients as far as the best style, fabrics, color, and fit. It wasn’t long before his clientele list grew to include high-profile ladies of the desert and celebrities who coveted his unique designs.
Life changed drastically for Costello in 2010 when he appeared as a contestant on the 8th season of the television show Project Runway. He finished the show in 4th place. In 2012 he returned to compete in the “All Stars” show and won 2nd runner-up. A major turning point in Michael’s career came on January 26, 2014, when he garnered nationwide attention by dressing Beyonce in a white lace and nude mesh dress for the 56th annual Grammy Awards. Immediately doors opened internationally attracting Hollywood celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Faye Dunaway, Celine Dion, Barry Manilow, Lady Gaga, Kate Hudson, Mariah Carey, and the late Suzanne Somers – all photographed in his custom designs. One can also find “off the rack” Costello clothing at Saks Fifth Avenue and online with retailer REVOLVE featuring his new summer collection.
“I truly believe that nothing is impossible if you set your mind to it,” said Costello. “Every dream is worth pursuing, no matter how big or small it may seem. However, I understand that life can be tough and it’s not always easy to keep a positive outlook. It is important to take things one day at a time and to surround yourself with people who will support you through both the good times and bad.”
Costello, when creating a new look, keeps an open mind to distinctive styling for women from all backgrounds and sizes. He often displays side-by-side models showing a size two model next to a plus-sized. His designs are very diverse. “All women are real women. My designs are for everyone,” he said.
Join Costello on the Main Stage at 2:30 and enjoy his presentation is “Empowering Women Through Fashion” featuring recognizable ladies from the Coachella Valley. A special SHOP COSTELLO POPUP will be set up in the Orion Salon with ready-to-wear fashions available to buy throughout the day.
“Desert Woman’s Show is delighted to celebrate Michael’s international success,” said producer Diana Marlo. “Our first show together was in 2010 where Michael featured a handful of dynamic models wearing his incredible fashions backed by the beauty of our palm trees and mountains.”
WHAT ELSE TO EXPECT AT THE DESERT WOMAN’S SHOW:
10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. ECO Diamonds will be featured in the Phoenix Salon. Learn all about lab-grown diamonds made in the USA. These affordable stunning diamonds are identical to mined diamonds in composition and quality. Register to join in a scavenger hunt for a chance to win a stunning 2-carat lab-grown diamond.
10:30-11:00 a.m. Book presentation by writer, explorer, and lover of words Tracy Smith. This beautifully crafted book offers you 365 thought-provoking daily words that will inspire, uplift, and guide you on your path of personal growth. The book offers a treasure trove of quotes, wisdom, affirmations, insights, and knowledge carefully curated to ignite your inner spark and empower you to embrace your true potential.
12:30-1:00 p.m. To Wig or Not to Wig – that is the question! Guests are in for an entertaining session with Susan (Sparky) Sparks and Barbara Rogers to get all the wiggy answers. Located on the Main Stage.
1:30 – 2:00 p.m. MAIN STAGE Fashion Show featuring the latest Spring styles by Grayse, Lilly Pulitzer, Pure Essentials, The Dori Collection, Coco Rose, and more! You won’t want to miss this one!
All day from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. the Greater Palm Springs Food & Wine presented by Spotlight 29 Casino features savory bites from your favorite eateries including Mastro’s, Wally’s, Wildest, Jackalope Ranch, Cowboy Cantina, Stuft Pizza, Big Rock Pub, Kitchen 86, 29 Brews, and so much more.
The 16th annual Desert Woman’s Show opens Saturday, February 17, at 10 a.m. and runs until 4 p.m. The annual event is sponsored by Desert Vein & Vascular Institute, Desert Care Network, The Lighthouse Coachella, Spotlight 29 Casino, Blanke Shein Advisors, Clark’s Nutrition, and Barbara Rogers. For tickets and information please go to www.MarloProductions.com.
