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When people imagine a lingerie show, the electric image of a Victoria's Secret runway extravaganza at the Plaza Hotel, the Cannes Film Festival or the floor of the stock market comes to mind. But that energy is difficult to duplicate.
In addition to world-class models and a variety of show props ranging from oversized feather angel wings to smoke machines, Victoria's Secret's estimated budget for its annual catwalk extravaganzas has more than doubled to $1 million a production since the first show in 1995.
But a number of executives in the intimate apparel industry -- a small but potent segment that rang up retail sales in excess of $12 billion in 2000 -- believe they can transcend the hype and fanfare and legitimize lingerie in a valid fashion arena: 7th on Sixth.
The Intimate Apparel Council, a trade group that's part of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, said it has decided to push the envelope even further than Victoria's Secret and stage the first industry-sponsored runway show in the Bryant Park tents during the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.
Called "Tulles of Seduction," the show is scheduled for Sept. 9 at 10 a.m. at the Pavilion in the park. It will feature 60 innerwear items, including directional concept pieces from designers and textile specialists. Some 600 members of the media and industry executives are expected...