Cheryl Shops

When & where: Friday, February 11 at 2 p.m., the Stage, Lincoln Center
Runway recap: In the growing world of contemporary fashion, Rebecca Taylor has been around for a while, and with good reason—she consistently delivers pretty yet cool, wearable clothes with a slight '70s bohemian edge. So I was pleased to see her go a bit darker for fall—in color palette and in tone—with a grungy yet glamorous collection of great-looking coats, quilted skirts, luxe velvet sweatshirts, and wispy chiffon dresses, many layered over leggings with a sequined racing stripe. It was a risk, but it worked, due in large part to the mix of rich-looking textures. And, hey, who doesn't love sparkle?

Bonus points: Layering is something a lot of women struggle with, but Taylor made it look effortless and thus her head-to-toe looks should be an easy sell—down to the furry, buckled boots paired with many of the ensembles.

Where to buy: Click here for store locations.

Quick, grab the closest girl to you and ask her if she likes Rebecca Taylor. She said yes, right? There's something so feminine and yet not syrupy-sweet about her clothes that appeals to so many women; what's interesting to me is how she takes on current trends and makes them her own. Her spring collection injected pale neutrals with bold shocks of citrus colors, a combination you'll hear me mention frequently over the next week, and yet she wove in signature motifs like patchwork, floral prints, and sequins. I was particularly fond of the tuxedo pants and shorts—mercifully knee-length and thus actually wearable—especially when contrasted with lace details, and speaking of contrast, the sporty-jacket-with-girly-dress thing is alive and well at Rebecca Taylor, and, hey, if it ain't broke... You always hear about designers wanting to achieve the perfect balance of feminine and masculine, and while there's nothing revolutionary about the way Rebecca Taylor achieves it, she certainly gets it right.

When & Where: Friday, February 11 at 2 p.m., the Stage, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: Count Rebecca Taylor among the designers who love the '70s, but what's unique about her interpretation of the Me Decade is its femininity and wearability—quiet floral prints and ruffled chiffon dresses paired with cozy sweater dresses and plush fur coats and vests. Lurex knits and beaded floral gowns lent a bit of disco fabulousness to the collection, but it all kept true to Taylor's sweet signature aesthetic.
Standout Look: Bold color (often mixed with another bright) is an emerging trend so far for fall, and this dress definitely caught my attention (hey, what can I say--I'm a sucker for magenta). I love the sequined flowers too--in theory, you could get away with wearing this for day, but I really think it's perfect for nighttime (and bonus points for sleeves!).
Bonus Points: Taylor upgraded to the larger Stage venue and switched days this season, allowing me to attend this show (normally Mina covers it for me) and have a seat. With so many fans of the line, I'd say this was a smart move!
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Sunday, September 12th at 2:00pm, Lincoln Center Studio.
Presentation Recap: Rebecca Taylor's show usually takes place in the smallest of the three official NYFW tents, and press is never let in until almost too late, which makes it a bit daunting. This year I was thrilled to shimmy myself in on time and get a good spot.

The music supporting this season's show flaunted the upbeat of the ska genre, in sharp contrast to the predominantly Virgin Suicides-style dresses lining the runway. Lots of cream and beige, lots of ruffles, lots of muted floral and polka-dot prints. This isn't to say there weren't some brighter numbers thrown in to make our eyes widen. And the looks I've posted photos of here aren't in Lux Lisbon's closet either.
Standout Look: A grey spaghetti-strap slipdress with sparkles seemed to have everyone picturing themselves in it.

Bonus Points: Noticeably in the front row were Carmen Electra, Jenna Ushkowitz (Glee), a snap-happy Shenae Grimes (90210), Michelle Trachtenberg (Gossip Girl, Buffy the Vampire Slayer), and other young actresses. A hearty turnout!
Where to Buy: Click here to purchase or watch video footage of this runway show.

Where & When: Sunday, February 14 at 2:00 p.m., Bryant Park Salon
Runway Recap: So in contrast to last fall when not a soul with a standing invite got in, I was thankful to gain entrance this year. However, only a handful of blog press was allowed in, and we were all smooshed in the corner with obstructed view. I'm glad I was able to bring you these photos by raising my camera up high, but unfortunately I couldn't see the models' calves or shoes.
Standout Look: Beautiful fur vest (top).
Bonus Points: Pixie-faced models and high celebrity presence, including Carmen Electra, the omnipresent girls of The Hills, and Entourage's Alexis Dziena (below).
Where to Buy: Click here to shop on Rebecca Taylor's official site.