Spring 2011 R-T-W (New York: Days 1-3).

Adam's S/S line was full of smart separates, great fitted blazers, gorgeous flowing dresses, and lots of beautiful lace. Such a perfect collection from beginning to end.

Band of Outsiders produced a lot of tailored and adorable preppy looks, which is to be expected. the last few looks (all-white dresses and separates) were what really blew me away. So gorgeous and lady-like, they are perfect for the dog days of summer.

There were some pretty far-fetched looks in Charlotte Ronson's collection. Unlike Jason Wu's play on sheer items (more feminine and bold), the sheer outfits in this collection were a bit more wack-a-doodle. Of course, there were some looks (90's grunge: plaid and floral) that were a bit close to my heart.

Derek Lam started his show with a few all-over denim outfits that actually made me grimace--not because it was denim on denim (because you know I love that) but the shade of denim was just so early 90's. It wasn't until the pieces got decidedly more feminine (long light dresses, skirts, and rompers) that I stopped frowning.

Jason Wu has proven time and time again that he can make beautiful clothes that flatter a lady. This season, he emphasized both the femininity (flower brooches, sheer tops, beautiful flowing gowns) and masculinity (smart tailored menswear: clean lines in jackets and suits)--sometimes both in the same outfit.
Knowing I'll never be able to sit and watch a fashion show irl, seeing it online in real time is my second best option. It really does make a difference seeing the fabric move with the model--you get more of a sense of what material things are and how things flow. After seeing the Preen show "live," I was blown away. I think this may be close to my favorite show so far (of the ones I've talked about in this entry...although Jason Wu is pretty high up there). Everything was just so strikingly clean and beautiful that it was hard to choose favorites...but I'll try.
Rachel Comey has decidedly taken a more mature route compared to her last S/S collection. Gone are the more twee-elements of her clothing. Taking its place is a far more neutral palette (blacks, whites, tans, and army greens with only a smattering of some bright colors) in the vein of her F/W collection: more suits and smart dresses. This isn't to say that the collection isn't bad--it's all still very wearable and flattering. I guess I just miss the days when a lady can pull off a corduroy dress!
Richard Chai Love looks like what a nice summer day feels like: easy and breezy. Gauzy fabric (sheer, naturally) over more fitted pieces give each look a relaxed feel, especially with the very neutral tan and off-white color palette, with just a smidge of denim and black to keep it from getting too one-note.
Whereas rag & bone* failed in their attempt to create something militaristic, Ruffian took it a bit more literally (and indubitably more successful). Tops (and coats) with broad shoulders are cinched with belts and the very clean lines are neutralized by flowy pants; ruffles offset the severity of military looks and grommet-like gold buttons keeps the inspiration throughout the collection without getting too heavy handed. The collection takes a turn away from military with more African safari-inspired get-ups. Ikat and cheetah prints adorn summer tops and chiffon-like dresses, giving the collection as a whole, more visual interest.
Suno is known for their prints and by golly do they make fantastic prints. Everything was just head-to-toe deliciousness. I just want everything, except for things that resemble pajama pants. That trend really needs to die now, thanks.
Thakoon was brimming with whites, vibrant blues, and a few prints. Classic and clean, this collection was in the same vein as a lot of other Spring/Summer collections: neutral with sheers and lace/crochet, and everything structured and flowing at the same time.
The models of Vena Cava sported bright lipstick and an occasional head wrap for graphic interest which complemented the very print-heavy collection. It was such a welcome respite after all the neutral collections in this post (Rachel Comey, Richard Chai)! There's really nothing more to say: it is fun, girly, and resort-like.
*Every season, I gush over the rag & bone collection and I'm pretty bummed that I'm not doing that this season. Clearly, this was not designed for girls like me. Boob harnesses and weirdo crochet-y things, thigh socks with garters, and super contrasting and jarring colors...Oh boy, I seriously don't know what girl would actually wear this out--even to go to da clubz. You can see the full collection here or here and see if you agree/disagree with me.