Culver City, CA - If Los Angeles designer Sue Wong has anything to do with it, Fall 2007 fashion will definitely mark a return to the groovy looks of the late Sixties/early Seventies, from kicky metallic minidresses to floor-sweeping silk "maxidresses" patterned in geometric, psychedelic designs.

"The Mod era was my era, I came of age during that time, so this was a no-brainer," Wong explained after receiving a standing ovation from the packed house, as her "MODe" show helped launch the opening day of the 2007 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in L. A. held at Smashbox Studios in Culver City.

Showing influences of the Sixties style of "Mary Quant, Twiggy, and Jean Shrimpton," Wong's dazzling "retro-modern" show began with nod to sixties gogo dancers and a series of fantastic short glittery shift minidresses in shades of hot pink, hot orange, lime, copper, and platinum. With flowing lines, high necks, cutout backs, and differently shaped paiette beads, the dresses are incredibly flattering and seriously attention getting.

Adding long maxidresses, Wong mixed patterned silk with chunky stones, some with halter tops, others with high necks and form-revealing geometric cutouts, most worn with flat sandals and coordinating top hats, creating a 21st Century update on hippie chic that is wearable for women of any age.

As classic Sixties rock blared (think "Satisfaction" and "Gloria") Wong shifted to her signature looks, mixing intricate hand beading and embroidery with silk, lace, and taffeta in varied silhouettes. A group of gorgeously beaded and brilliantly hued cocktail dresses managed to combine the bubble-skirt shape with a flattering drape (no mean feat), and her empire and babydoll looks also succeeded in avoiding the "is she pregnant or not?" pitfall those designs so often fall into, instead draping in a completely flattering way.

Moving away from the Mod motif, Wong also presented a red-carpet ready, awe-inspiring group of evening gowns, highlighted by a black strapless gown and matching coat accentuated by elaborate cream chrysanthemum and phoenix embroidery, and a halter gown with a hand-painted phoenix and peony flowers. Either one would suit actress Maria Conchita Alonso, who raced from her front-row seat to greet Wong, giggling to her that "When I get nominated, I'm going to wear one of your dresses!"

Alonso (who wore her own Sue Wong) was joined in the rapt audience by other actresses from film and television, including "General Hospital" star Jacklyn Zeman, "Reno 911" comic Niecy Nash, and Nikki Griffin of "The O.C."; all cheered as Wong's traditional "Brides" closed the show in three over-the-top looks done in beige lace, ivory tulle, and even opulent feathers.