Cheryl Shops

Where & When: Thursday, September 17th at 6 p.m., the Salon, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: Chocheng took a 180-degree turn from the fussy, '80s-inspired suits and gowns he showed last season, in favor of a much cleaner, minimal collection in a strict black and white color palette that truly showcased the artistry of his design. He kept the adornments simple--architectural, uniform ruffle trim along the neckline or front--the better to highlight his expertly cut sheath dresses and gorgeously draped jackets. This was one of the few shows I saw this season in which the audience broke out in spontaneous applause--particularly for a strapless turquoise gown toward the end, modeled by Behati Prinsloo--and with what appeared to be many clients in attendance, I think Chocheng can expect to have a successful spring.
Standout Look: While I enjoyed watching all the variations on a theme that came down the runway, the series of flouncy, draped capelets were among my favorite looks. I especially liked how the volume of the jacket contrasts with the short, fitted pencil skirt.
Bonus Points: As I neared the end of Fashion Week, I was a little sad to not see one of my favorite models, Coco Rocha, in any of the shows I attended. But, lo and behold, she closed this show in dramatic fashion, in a très ladylike bridal gown.
Where to Buy: Chocheng atelier, 49-51 E. 63rd St.

Chocheng Fall 2009
Where & When: Tuesday, February 17th at 5 p.m., the Salon, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: A strong '80s influence has been prevalent throughout the shows this Fashion Week, and even Cho Cheng, who designs decidedly uptown suits for Ladies Who Lunch, is getting in on the revival. His brightly colored tweed jackets were impeccably tailored and recalled early-Lagerfeld Chanel, but pairing them with tragically dumpy culottes or comically short miniskirts was a move in the wrong direction. A series of second-skin sequined gowns and vampy strapless gowns appeared appeared sexy at first glance, but, up close, were ill-fitting, especially in the bust. But perhaps the most disturbing aspect of the show was the hair and makeup--all of the models wore blond bobbed wigs, which I'm assuming was intended to give them a youthful appearance, but instead reminded me a bit too much of "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane"--and maybe hit a bit too close to home for Cheng's aging-socialite clients.
Standout Look: One of the few looks that was neither a suit nor an evening gown, this bright-pink sheath dress stood out for both its dramatic bow collar and for its cheerful color.
Bonus Points: I was seated directly across from Vogue's Meredith Melling Burke, who was wearing the glorious studded Burberry shoes I was lusting after last year. Also, I was seated next to a fellow who smelled so wonderful, I had to ask him what fragrance he was wearing (he couldn't remember the name, but he said it was one of the Bond No. 9 scents; I'm guessing it was Wall Street, but I will definitely investigate this). An hour later, I could still smell it.
Where to Buy: Chocheng's atelier, at 51 E. 63rd Street.