Erich Richardson

Models from a Fashion Week show last year Spring.

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — L.A. Fashion "Week" (actual run time is about 10 days), kicks off this Thursday and will stretch its long, toned legs all across the city. Many of the special events, runway shows and "Market Week" showcases take place in DTLA.

Here are the highlights:

Thurs. March 8: "Attire to Inspire" at the Conga Room Fashion for a good cause, this charity show is sponsored by local non-profit Breathe L.A. -- a group that focuses on improving air quality and lung health for city residents.

The night starts at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail party followed by a fashion show, music and dancing.

Designers featured in the show include (appropriately) eco-conscious and environmentally friendly Yotam Solomon and Vicarious by Nature (VBN).

Mon. March 12: Market Week Opens

Much of market week is designed for "the trade only" and a complete listing of times and events can be found at FashionWeekLA. For the rest of us, there are plenty of parties and shows to attend. See below.

Tues. March 13: Style Fashion Week at Vibiana

The spacious indoor venue and outdoor hidden garden will host runway shows from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and is invite only. Doors open at 6 pm.; the 7:30 show is still to be determined and the 8:30 show is XCVI- a "eclectic" and "bohemian" label that emphasizes "wearability".

Thurs. March 15: Octavio Carlin and Furne One

Vibiana's week of runway shows continues with these two designers. Carlin is best known for sleek, elegant dresses and gowns while Furne One, a Dubai-based designer, designs wild, textured creations with a sense of humor and glamour.

Sat. March 17: Fashion and Hope

Sponsored by Hope in the City, this benefit for Habitat and Humanity will be hosted at the Mosaic Arts District space in Downtown at 826 E. 3rd Street. The event goes from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and includes fashion, art and "behind the seams" stories.

For all info regarding Vibiana runway shows, email info@vibiana.com