NEW YORK, Feb 16, 2001/ --- Even though it had been reported that a movie would be filmed at the Zang Toi show, no celebrities showed up – one publicist said the “real” celebrity scene would be filmed later that night, far from the eyes of roving paparazzi.

So Zang Toi had to rely on the clothes themselves to generate buzz, and fortunately it worked: The collection was smashing.

Calling his collection "An Asian In Scotland," the designer, smoothing his kilt, said that he used "a variety of influences to create this line -- plus lots of cashmere, silk and fantasy."

The audience gasped as models descended the bi-level catwalk in wool kilt miniskirts paired with black silk organza shirts, and ice blue flannel wraps shown with silver fox accessories.

Midway through the show Toi switched his focus from the highlands of Scotland and brought out Asian-influenced garb like a lacquer red silk gown with a beaded imperial dragon.

From the beaded Scottish coat of arms to the organza taffeta ball skirts with mohair and Swarovski crystals, it was a gorgeous, luxurious collection.

After the finale, which featured a princess ballgown with castle top detail topped off with an 80-carat diamond necklace worth $10 million, the audience jumped to their feet for a standing ovation.

The only other moment last night to generate that much excitement happened when an elevator got stuck on the third floor with a New York One TV news crew and several journalists inside, delaying the show for half an hour.

Fortunately, EMT showed up to pry out the frustrated fashionistas.

There were even whispers by PR people of celebs being trapped inside. That’s what we call a good excuse for starting a show late.

Zang Toi Fashion

Zang Toi Fashion

Zang Toi Fashion

Zang Toi Fashion