The fashion prognosticators have declared spring 2006 the season of the dress. Whether it's a sexy little halter, demure shirtwaist or slender sheath, the dress is the must-have item of the moment.

View the latest collections from fashion's most famous designers at The Dress Event, beginning at 6 p.m. tomorrow at Neiman Marcus, Galleria Collections, Level 2. RSVP recommended; 951-3444.

Additionally, a Taryn Rose trunk show takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today and tomorrow in the shoe department at Neiman Marcus, featuring the latest styles from the designer who is also an orthopedic surgeon.

HOT HOME SALE

Here's an opportunity to dress up your home with furnishings and art at designer discounts as deep as 70 percent.

Gentry Pacific Design Center and the Hale'iwa Art Gallery have partnered to present a one-day-only sale of designer furniture and fine art by eight artists, as well as interior textiles from Johnny Mango and International Design Sources, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday at Gentry Pacific Design Center.

FABRIC FUNDRAISER

Here's an event that speaks to the creative spark in all of us. Temari, the Center for Asian and Pacific Arts, will hold a fundraiser, "Bolts of Fabric and Fun," focusing on fabric, vintage garments, ethnic textiles, buttons and beads that will delight sewing enthusiasts, costume designers and textile collectors.

Among the treasures for sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Honpa Hongwanji Social Hall, Pali Highway, will be chirimen creped rayon from Japan, indigenous seersucker dyed in natural indigo from Shikoku island and kimono donated by Robyn Buntin to benefit the Gregory House.

OOH LA LA AT THE O

The club and fashion scenes combine to present "The Women's Closet," a sale of deeply discounted designs from J. Boudoir, Corsetiere, Crazy Beautiful, Second Skin and MisFortune, as well as jewelry from Ginger 13 and imported handbags and household goods from Eiselin Imports.

The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday at the O Lounge. It includes a runway fashion show, champagne cocktails and food from the club's kitchen. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Information: 944-8436 or visit www.theolounge.com.

PAULSCHOOL OF SPA

In a nod to the growing popularity of spa services, Honolulu hair stylist Paul Brown has just introduced the Paul Brown Institute of Beauty and Wellness Technologies. The spa-focused beauty school will teach massage, hair styling, nail technician and aesthetician classes.

The institute will offer hands-on training, and the full-service clinic will provide an opportunity for locals to have professional services downtown.

Classes begin May 1 at the 1132 Bishop Street location. A high school diploma is required and pre-testing is going on now. Tuition is determined by the curriculum chosen. Call 587-8448 or visit www.paulbrowninstitute.com.

Reach Paula Rath at prath@honoluluadvertiser.com.