Designer Oday Shakar Talks New York Fashion Week 2016 Debut, Shares What Inspired His Stunning Spring/Summer 2017 Collection [PHOTOS]

Even though celebrities such as Gabrielle Union, Sandra Bullock and Sofía Vergara have walked the red carpet in one of Oday Shakar’s gowns, the California-born designer has never showcased his collection at New York Fashion Week … until now. Shakar was one of several designers to kick off Day 2 of the biannual event, debuting his upcoming spring/summer 2017 collection for a packed audience which included “The Hills” alum Whitney Port.

Backstage ahead of his show, Shakar told International Business Times that it took him six months to create the collection and he was excited for everyone to see what he’s been working on. “It’s been a dream,” Shakar said, describing his first NYFW experience. “[I] moved here six months ago and hit the ground running since I been here. .. So it’s been quite the ride, but one that’s been very exciting.”

Shakar’s red carpet gowns are usually form-fitting shimmery numbers, but for his fashion show Friday the designer went with long flowing gowns in dark colors and neutral dresses with intricate detailing. Shaker told IBT that his inspiration behind the collection was him trying to blend where he was born — Southern California — with his Iraqi heritage. “I’m blending the worlds because I am a blend of both worlds and I’ve lived in both worlds and just trying to find beauty in that and create something special,” he explained.

Throughout Shakar’s show, the audience oohed and aahed — and snapped pictures — as model after model sashayed down the runway in his designs. Shakar said he hoped everyone in attendance left the venue with a better idea of who he is as a person, and as a designer. “This collection is unlike any other that I’ve done and really a new beginning for me so I hope they can see kind of how I evolved as a designer,” he told IBT. “I hope they can sense who I am as a person in the clothes.”

Shakar’s favorite outfit on the runway? The West Coast native said he loved his finale piece, a grey and black chiffon gown with a long sheer cape that seemed to float in the air behind the model. “It’s very powerful,” he said. “There are a couple pieces that are my favorite, but definitely the finale piece.”

You can see some of Shakar’s NYFW SS17 collection below.