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This was exciting. After a couple years of small intimate presentations, where fashion media had limited access, Tom Ford chose London fashion week for his first real runway show since he left Gucci years ago. And it was quite a show. In case you’ve never seen the incredible detail and luxuriousness of Tom’s clothes in person, they’re amazing. And expensive. Like really, really expensive. But they are because they can be. He’s a master at managing and maintaining the exclusivity of his brand.

This was a glam show and the clothes screamed (over) indulgence. The myriad of opulent fabrics and luxurious materials featured throughout the collection almost had a vintage Versace (early 90s) vibe to it (like, this was way more in line with what Gianni Versace would be doing today if he was still alive, unlike anything Donatella continues to put out season after season). Some pieces even had a cartoon/comic book feeling. The collection also seemed to reference some of Tom’s time at Gucci in the late 90s. And the hair and make-up were also a signature Tom Ford for Gucci look (he did the slicked back hair parted on the side with smoky eyes often for his Gucci shows). While there were quite a few over the top, almost theatrical looks (wild furs, super colourful matching pencil skirts and knee high boots), there were also some crazy beautiful pieces that were good looking and wearable (like the beautiful suit below), and that we’ll for sure be seeing on celebrities and the super wealthy fashion elite in the near future.

I can’t find a video of the entire show on YouTube yet, but you can check out every look from the collection on Style.com

Out of all the newer crop of young designers in NYC at the moment, Jason Wu’s show during fashion week was one of my favourites. It was chic, modern and wearable. The make-up was also pretty (and interesting) and loved the way the hair was styled. The collection was mostly black and white, with some impressive bits of colour (vibrant red and blue) and featured tons of great power suits, high collared blouses, cocktail dresses and some really cool fur trimmed coats (above). One of my favourite looks was the alligator print leather jacket with the pleated white skirt – like, that’s a good looking outfit. Also, loved the evening wear at the end with the mullet tops and dress pants – super chic and different. Definitely not for everyone but on the right person, it’s a powerful look.  And this was a strong showing for Jason Wu.

Check out highlights from the show here:

And check out the slideshow to see every look in detail on Style.com

He rarely disappoints in terms of his presentation skills. He knows what will get people talking and this was the best Marc Jacob show in a while. He sent the models out twice in the same outfits. It was definitely interesting. We’re going to be seeing these clothes and pieces inspired by this collection a lot. Love all the metallics and the pyjama/shirt dresses. The sequin pieces seemed to range from navy to burgundy to rose gold – and does it get any cooler than sequin plaid?!? There were also some great fox fur pieces worn over the sequin dresses (but I didn’t like the ones that were actually shaped like foxes – creepy). And the Joan Jet styling with the black shag wigs was super hip. A couple of friends said that this show made them love Marc Jacobs all over again. If you’re a big fan of the Marc Jacob’s aesthetic, you’re going to love this collection.

Check out the show to see for yourself:

And check out the slideshow on Style.com

Donna Karan hasn’t been my favourite the last few years but she definitely stepped it up his season.  And what’s interesting is, much like Diane Von Furstenberg, this season she went back to her roots. The collection was heavenly influenced by Donna’s signature draped jersey look from the 80s and 90s. Lots of blacks, greys and browns, the collection was very New York. This was power dressing at its best. She also clearly designs with herself in mind and it works. With so many exciting and fresh young NY designers right now (Jason Wu, Prabal Gurung, Proenza Schouler, Rodarte), it’s pretty cool to see some of the greats like Donna, Diane, Ralph and Oscar have such a strong showing this season and base their collections on the aesthetics that made them famous years ago.

Check out the whole show here:

And check out the slideshow on Style.com

This was one of the most highly anticipated shows of the season. Why? Because John Galliano contributed. And the collaboration pulled off – the show was one of the best Oscar de la Renta shows in years – stunning. There was definitely a hint of Dior but many pieces also looked like old school de la Renta – lots of embroidery and some of the most beautifully constructed suits of the season in jewel tones and really soft leather. The collection was modern, good looking and, of course, fancy.

Check out the whole show here:

 

And check out the slideshow for all the looks on Style.com

This was one of the best DVF collections I’ve seen in a while – definitely Diane going back to her roots. Featuring some interesting and sexy fabrics, there were a lot of beautiful blouses and skirts, and some totally awesome coats with leather sleeves and super cool fabric combinations. Also really liked the way the models were styled – big flowing hair and red lips. It was refreshing to see happy models on the runway. Love that they’re all smiling and aren’t so serious and morose that we see so often on the runways lately. This was a happy show – it reminded me of the great shoes in the early 90s. The collection had a 70s/80s vibe with a bit of rock & roll. And it was totally self referencing, which is cool when you have as much as a fascinating fashion history as Diane does. 

Check out some highlights of the show here:

And to see every look from the collection, check out the slideshow on Style.com