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Ebony Fashion Fair's 'Living it up' 2004/2005 makes for unforgettable evening in New York

EBONY Fashion Fair, the world's largest traveling fashion show, recently brought "Living It Up" to the Big Apple.

Patrons picked up fashion tips, made mental notes on the hottest creations and had a grand time at the New York Hilton and Towers in its Grand Ballroom

Residents of the fashion capital were treated to a wondrous buffet of creations. From silk chiffon and sequined gowns to flirty-tiered fringe cocktail dresses to leather and for ensembles, "Living It Up" did it up with an array of fashions that satisfied the masses.

Men's designs, including the snazzy seven-eighths-length suit jackets, suits and casual wear, were showcased during the lively event.

The show, celebrating its 47th year, benefited the Harlem YMCA, who sponsored the event.

Commentator Jada Jackson Collins wears an Alberto Makali, Italy, sheer tunic with sequins and beads over silk crepe pants.

Joslyn Pennywell turns heads in this large hounds tooth-print cocktail dress with cascading handkerchief hemline slip underneath, designed by Erreuno, Milan.

* Alexandria Hepburn lights up the stage in this fitted chenille gown from Thierry Mugler Couture, Paris, that features a velvet-lined hood that converts to a floor-sweeping train in back.

* Joy Jones models a for and feathers triangular-cut hooded poncho with suede petal-bottom jeans by Alberto Makali, Italy.

* Alicyn Chappelle enthralls the audience in a woven window pane coat and dress from Oscar de la Renta Couture, New York, that features a fringed mixture of yarns, feathers and beads.

* Tonya Dolphin models an asymmetrical-cut ball gown of taffeta and tulle highlighted with sparkling sequins and beads from Cassandra Stone, Chicago.

Wendy Wiltz shows off a dolman sleeve sweater jacket and tailored pinstripe pants with the added feminine flair of a ruffled bustier designed by Christian Lacroix, Paris.

* The Look of dots and flowers featured in this strapless trumpet-shape gown and stole from Jovani, New York, is worn by full-figure model Channon Monroe.

Ann Blocker (2nd, r), New York Hilton and Towers catering manager, congratulates 8-year-old Mariama Foster, winner of American Airlines/American Eagle trip for two, along with well-wishers (l-r) Bernell Grier, chairman of the board, Harlem YMCA, Elaine Edmonds, executive director and general chair of the 47th annual EBONY Fashion Fair, Candace Cline Collins and Marilyn Wright, ticket sales volunteers.

Edmonds (3rd, r) thanks the luncheon committee (l-r) Eudella Grant, Cindy Cain, Cathy Woods-Briscow, Norma L. Smith (front, c), Carolyn Chamber and Lourdes Camargo, administrative assistant to Blocker, Hilton Hotel catering, for their support of the Harlem YMCA's first year of sponsorship of EBONY Fashion Fair.