CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: model wearing Moncler; Valentino signing autographs; backstage at the AFW finale; models wearing Fendi; relaxing backstage; model wearing Cirque Snow

“FASHION MEETS FUNCTION” was the buzz phrase at this spring’s inaugural Aspen Fashion Week, a four-day showcase of 2009–10 resort-, ski- and technical-outerwear collections. Founded by Aspenite Lisa Johnson, AFW 2009 debuted with chic in-store presentations, tony après-ski celebrations and a high-energy runway finale. “Our intent was to launch the concept, get people excited come up for air and get ready for 2010,” explained Johnson.

If AFW’s highlight was an indication of what’s to come, fashionistas will be clamoring for front-row access next year. The film Valentino The Last Emperor, produced and directed by Vanity Fair contributing editor Matt Tyrnauer, was screened at the Wheeler Opera House. A raw, fly-on-the-wall documentary about Valentino and his unique relationship with partner Giancarlo Giametti, the project has quickly become the talk of both the film and fashion industries. Most notably Valentino, Giametti and Tyrnauer attended AFW for the screening and were met with a standing ovation. “The real Valentino was a temtemperamental genius,” said Tyrnauer. “His first reaction [to the film] was shocked ebullience. Then he screamed at me for five months.”

AFW closed with a runway finale at Belly Up, a sold-out show that previewed decidedly diverse designers. “The intent of a runway show is to preview upcoming collections but also to create a connection between consumers and the brand—to create a desire to purchase,” said Johnson. “We create that connection in this very important influencer’s market."

The coveted designs included glam-chic snowboard outerwear by Cirque Snow; exotic materials and intricately handcrafted looks by Dennis Basso; whimsical Oriental motifs by Ed Hardy Snow; classical French cuts with a Bohemian twist by Gabriel Conroy; and sleek, modern renditions of the popular Moncler puffer. Also seen on the runway were body-conscious silver lamè dazzlers by Fendi; a street-influenced, snowboard-inspired line by Isaora; a stylish first stab at technical skiwear by Kästle; playful colors and lines from Obermeyer; phenomenal fits from Rossignol; and Under Armour’s mountain adaptation of performance fabrics and materials.

AFW 2010 is slated to be a weeklong runway event in downtown Aspen, staged under tents—much like New York’s hyper-successful Fashion Week.

For information on Aspen Fashion Week 2010, visit aspenfashionweek.com