'A fall fashion fantasy'

South Coast Plaza kicked off its first weekend celebrating makeup, hair and beauty with a MAC Cosmetics exhibit Friday that organizers said is unlike any other in the nation.

Posh Paradise marked the launch of South Coast Plaza Style, which highlights the shopping center's beauty boutiques, concepts and salons, said Debra Gunn Downing, the center's executive director of marketing.

At Jewel Court on Friday stood four display windows adorned in deep-colored leaves representing the fall and winter seasons.

Inside each window stood a model, covered with body paint that blended with the leaves.

"It's all about a fall fashion fantasy, a jungle of makeup," said Julie Wick, a MAC makeup trainer for the Orange County region.

Posh Paradise, which will be displayed all weekend, highlights this season's makeup colors and trends. It is also the only MAC exhibit of its kind.

MAC picked South Coast Plaza for the exhibit because it's a fashion hub, Wick said.

"We see this happening over and over again with so many of our brands bringing their newest store designs, special merchandise collections and exclusive exhibits to South Coast Plaza," Downing said. "And this is because South Coast Plaza is an international destination and a fashion hub."

In addition to MAC, more than 20 stores will be participating in South Coast Plaza Style weekend, including Aveda, Sephora, Bulgari, Spa Nordstrom Escape and Carlton Hair International.

Deals include complimentary makeup and hair sessions, gifts with purchases, and discounts on products and services including facials, massages and pedicures at Spa Nordstrom Escape.

South Coast Plaza Style lasts until Oct. 2.

The event in Costa Mesa was just one of many related to the fall season in the area. Fashion Island in Newport Beach and the Irvine Spectrum Center are also celebrating style and the emergence of new designers and notable stylists all week.

Style Week at Fashion Island and the Irvine Spectrum Center, which is expected to last until Oct. 8, will feature fashion shows, designer appearances and a food festival.

mona.shadia@latimes.com

Twitter: @MonaShadia