Cheryl Shops

Where & When: Sunday, September 13th at 8 p.m., the Tent, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: After being shut out of a couple shows on this day, it was a wonderous occasion being let past the mobs and into the Tent for Custo Barcelona. Though at first I was standing in the back row, I managed to fenegal my way into a seat in the fourth row! The Spring 2010 collection was a mosaic of textures and vibrant colors, flowing capes and long fringe, patterns, and playful motifs. I have to say, if I were a man I'm not sure I would be daring enough to wear those loud patterned blazers, but in the context of a fashion show they looked stunning. Many of the ladies' outfits were sleeveless with elaborate chokers attached to the bodice. I'll let the photos do the rest of the talking.
Standout Look: A bowl-cut model sporting a one-shoulder dress that was an unlikely concoction of elements that somehow works together (sort of like Tom Cruise's face). It's possible I was merely in love with the model. There was another great look straight out of Nerd Central with manpris that I've posted a photo of here...pass the slide ruler please.
Bonus Points: I received a ginormous waterproof souvenir tote bag which I plan on using to haul groceries around the city.
Where to Buy: You can purchase Custo Barcelona here.
Postscript: I just realized that I leered at Brandon Davis (oil heir, a la Lindsay Lohan) at the show because I thought he looked like a d-bag. In general, not much of a celebrity presence at this show.

Where & When: Sunday, September 13th at noon, the Altman Building
Runway Recap: Perhaps because he's based in Australia and doesn't have a strong retail presence here, Toni Maticevski tends to fly under the radar in the U.S. But considering how breathtakingly beautiful his runway looks are, I'm honestly surprised that more fashion-forward celebs don't choose his designs for the red carpet. His latest collection was a meditation on death and decay, but also of the life that springs forth from it. Asymmetrical ruffles extended like vines from tailored suits; puffs of tulle sprouted from the shoulders of frothy silk gowns. The textures were sometimes dark and sooty, but Maticevski cuts his gowns with such an exquisite regard for the female body, that beauty could always be found within. Certain details, like exaggerated half peplums and crinkled black dresses evocative of garbage bags, will not be for everyone. But anyone who can see the lightness in darkness is sure to be enchanted by Maticevski's ethereal designs.
Standout Look: Like a tutu that's been rolled around in the dirt, this layered tulle gown reminded me of the decaying beauty of Swan Lake, one of my favorite ballets.
Bonus Points: After dealing with the total chaos of the Bryant Park tents on Saturday, the Altman Building was positively mellow in comparison. And I am not one to argue with free Fiji Water.
Where to Buy: Click here for stockists.

Where & When: Sunday, September 13th at 6 p.m., Scandinavia House
Runway Recap: The show featured bridal and evening gown couture created by the Israeli designer, set to a Spanish soundtrack intended to invoke the spirit of Barcelona. The models at this show were exotic with big up-do's, and some sauntered particularly seductively down the runway. Some numbers featured fascinating cloud-like and geometric shapes; though the audience had a strong friends and family air to it, the experience managed to maintain an esoteric and exclusive feel.
Standout Look: Clearly the centerpiece of this show was the bridal gown on the final model. Voluminous and accented with dazzling details, the dress brought to mind an image of a royal wedding. The model was crowned with a gorgeous headdress of crystals and wore a fluffy white bolero. The crowd clapped heartily in delight.
Bonus Points: This off-site runway was connected to a lovely rooftop patio, which served as a starting point for the models.
Where to Buy: Coming soon to Kleinfeld Bridal. Click here to visit the Karen Sabag homepage.

Where & When: Saturday, September 12th at 7 p.m., the Tent, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: Have you ever seen clothes so beautiful, they make you cry? Maybe exhaustion had something to do with it, but during the grand finale of Ralph Rucci's runway show, I was literally moved to tears. To backtrack a bit, Rucci is the only working American designer who, per la chambre syndicale de la haute couture, can call himself a true couturier. In other words, Rucci creates clothes that are, in essence, wearable art. His obsession is the spine, arguably the most elegant line in a woman's body, and his designs hug it, outline it, and radiate outward from it like puffs of smoke. Rucci is above trends, although sheer insets played a big role in the collection, and with couture techniques like columnar tucks and knotted chiffon trim, the details only emphasized the purity of his form. Designs like these tend to end up in museums--F.I.T.'s Valerie Steele was in the front row, after all--but they're so gorgeous, they deserve to be worn too.
Standout Look: In true dramatic buildup, Rucci's show started with demure day looks and slowly transitioned into showstopping evening gowns. And while I am always enthralled with the latter, I think the true test of a designer is to see what he or she can do with the limitations of the former. On paper, a beige silk raincoat sounds pedestrian and even lackluster, but in person, this airy confection skimmed the body like a soft, beautiful cloud.
Bonus Points: While I was entertained by my seatmate Edgar, the most enthusiastic Colombian ever to attend a fashion show, as well as by Rucci's client Martha Stewart, who was seated directly across the runway from me, I direct the bulk of my praise to the staging of the show itself: The models paused twice at points two-thirds down the runway, so the audience could more closely observe the intricate details of each look. Then, for the finale, they stood on a raised platform, allowing us a prolonged last look at the artistry of Rucci's work--whose beauty, as I mentioned earlier, led me to tears.
Where to Buy: Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and select Neiman Marcus stores.

Where & When: Saturday, September 12th at 6 p.m., Casa Do Brasil
Runway Recap: If you ever wander around the East Village, you might encounter the odd holdout artist who's been living in the neighborhood since heroin and punk ruled the streets. I've always been fascinated by such residents; especially in gentrifying neighborhoods, they're like an endangered species. And Geova Rodrigues, who came to NYC in 1992 and opened his store in 2001, is one of them. More of an artist who works with garments, rather than a straight-up fashion designer, Geova's clothes are whimsical and artsy and playful, qualities that are often missing in much of what Seventh Avenue produces. Today's looks played with two main motifs: faces hand-painted on T-shirts and jersey dresses, and collage-like dresses pieced together from a mix of textures and fabrics. It was kind of like being invited to a kooky art party, with the entertainment being Brothers of Brazil, a two-man Brazilian rockabilly band. Like the clothes, the band was just bizarre enough to make perfect sense.
Standout Look: This dress was constructed of panels of trim--sequins, hook-and-eye closures, etc.--all stitched together into a madcap flapper dress.
Bonus Points: My front-row (!) seat featured a gift bag containing what can only be described as the best chocolate-covered honey cake I've ever had. It was from Bee Desserts, which, henceforth, is where I will be ordering my special treats.
Where to Buy: Geova's atelier at 208 Avenue B.

Where & When: Saturday, September 12th at 11 a.m., the Promenade, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: Lebanese-born designer Georges Chakra boasts couture training, and his Edition line, which launched last season, is his way to bring those refined techniques to the ready-to-wear market. Today he presented a rather robust collection of 46 evening looks, which ran the gamut from bright citrus-colored crepe gowns to sequined asymmetrical little black dresses. The most interesting looks played with a hard-and-soft contrast, pairing geometric, architectural details and hardware with filmy chiffon and lightly draped crepe and satin. I expect these dresses to be popular with socialites, who actually have multiple occasions to which to wear these gowns, but for the rest of us, it's always fun to dream.
Standout Look: Sometimes I pick my favorite look after scrolling through my photos, but other times I know it as soon as it comes down the runway, and the latter is how I felt about this shocking yellow lamé gown, detailed with asymmetrical crisscrossing silver leather trim. A definite statement-maker, it's certainly not a look for a wallflower. Which, in these days when bland red-carpet dresses proliferate, is a good thing.
Bonus Points: It's not much, but I was seated directly across the runway from The Real Housewives of New York's Jill Zarin, Alex McCord, and Simon van Kempen, all of whom chatted amicably throughout the show.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Friday, September 11th from 6-9 p.m., 224 W. 30th Street
Runway Recap: I must say, there's nothing like the excitement of runway shows during Fashion Week, but I also love presentations, because you can literally be in and out in minutes. In other words, it's nice to change it up with a quickie now and then. In the case of Genetic Denim, I think it took the publicist longer to explain the setup of the event than for me to actually go through it. Basically, this presentation was more about the atmosphere than the clothing. The front room, with floor-to-ceiling windows open to the street, featured a really cool "tree" with leaves made out of denim (insert joke about denim growing on trees), as well as four models wearing Genetic Denim shorts or jeans and not much else, save for strategically-placed scarves. The other room had strands of crystals hanging from the ceiling, which didn't really have anything to do with denim from what I could tell, but it looked kinda awesome, and thus I'm including a photo of it anyway. And, oh yeah, this is where the lone male model was residing.
Standout Look: Sitting under the denim tree, this model was very into giving me a unique pose, but I was pretty intrigued by her skinny jeans, which had a raised, snakeskin-like texture. I am also all in favor of the sleeveless denim jacket. Something old, and something new.
Bonus Points: There was an open bar, which I didn't partake of. Far more exciting was the fact that, randomly, '80s supermodel Carol Alt was there, and I am happy to report that she looks totally fantastic. Sign me up for that raw diet she's on!
Where to Buy: Visit website for stores.

Where & When: Friday, September 11th from 6-7:30 p.m. at 415 W. 13th Street
Runway Recap: After consulting on this collection, designer Swaim Hutson (formerly of indie favorite Obedient Sons & Daughters) has taken over as creative director at Generra, which I think is a smart move. I feel like Generra often gets lost amidst similar contemporary labels (like Theory or Vince), so giving it a quirky-smart aesthetic will help it stand out from the pack. A little bit city, and a little bit country, Generra mixed ditsy floral prints and chambray with versatile jersey dresses and linen separates. The neutral palette makes it easy to work these pieces into your wardrobe; these are the kind of items you buy at the beginning of spring and find yourself wearing all the time, straight into fall.
Standout Look: This spaghetti-strap tank is perfectly cut--neckline not too low, body not too tight--and the pleated, slouchy-skinny pants (which, as I've said before, I've been seeing everywhere this season) are cut to flatter with a just-right proportion. Think of them as two staples that become a blank canvas for your spring/summer look.
Bonus Points: While runway strutters get all the glory, the models who have to stand around for several hours at presentations deserve some respect too. I was at this show toward the end, and when no one was watching, the models started wiggling around and dancing--reminding you of the fact that when they're not making their vacant death-stare face, models are sweet teenage girls. And speaking of sweet, I thoroughly enjoyed the rosé and macaroons served there.
Where to Buy: The brand-new Generra store at 823 Washington St. in the Meatpacking District (whose opening I didn't make it to last night--sorry!).

Where & When: Friday, September 11th at 6 p.m., the Salon, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: While her contemporaries have come and gone and come back again, Nicole Miller has been quietly plugging along since the early '90s, no mean feat for an independent designer. The key to her success has been making flattering, wearable clothes for real women's lives--blouses and pencil skirts for work, pretty dresses for evening--but instead of resting on the laurels of her loyal clientele, Miller continues to challenge herself and push her designs in new directions without forsaking their accessibility. As her program notes announced, "The girl has a tougher edge, pushing forward body consciousness...experimenting with new technology." While weaving draped bits of digital-looking prints throughout, Miller showed very close-to-the-body looks, from fitted motocross jackets to banded skirts and dresses with their ruched fabric tightly wrapped and twisted around the body. She also played with floating georgette and slinky satins, contrasting their fluidity with structured, stretchy scuba and twill fabrics. With the exception of a pair of seamed white leggings, the entire collection was wearable (even the ruched bike shorts were a thoughtful, practical interpretation of a hard-to-wear trend) and, more importantly, interesting. With work like this, I can't wait to see what risks Miller takes next season.
Standout Look: This stretch leather biker vest, layered over a tank and a silk twill skirt with a printed panel demonstrates the essence of the collection: structure vs. fluidity. The practicality lies in the asymmetrical drape of the skirt, camouflaging the hips with a pretty swath of fabric.
Bonus Points: Miller pulled out all the stops with this one. My seat, in the third row, had my name and website printed on back of the chair (a first for me), and happened to be directly behind the celeb trifecta of Ciara (now with long hair), Amerie, and Amber Rose (a.k.a. Kanye West's girlfriend). Props to them for being able to see what went down the runway, because the flashbulbs from the cameras swarming them pre-show were so bright, I had to pull an Anna Wintour and put on my sunglasses.
Where to Buy: Click here to find a store near you.

Where & When: Friday, September 11th at 3 p.m., the Tent, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: With the runway dressed like a cobblestone street and a backdrop that evoked the Old Town of a Mediterranean city, I was expecting a hokey French influence. Instead, Monarchy Collection showed a rather sophisticated lineup of party dresses for women and sharply tailored suits for men, segueing into what this L.A.-based contemporary label does best: casual sportswear with that air of West Coast ease. The very on-trend collection featured well-cut paperbag-waist shorts, cropped tops, and boyfriend shirts, vests, jeans, and jackets; there were also buttery-looking leather jackets for both men and women. I have no idea what the backdrop was all about, or how it was supposed to relate to the show, but with clothes this great, who cares?
Standout Look: Monarchy showed a fresh way to wear the old-standby party-top-and-jeans outfit: A loose metallic cropped top layered under a cropped, tailored jacket and paired with high-waisted jeans. It's a new proportion, but one that works.
Bonus Points: The front row was packed with reality TV stars: Reverend Run's daughters Angela and Vanessa Simmons, Janice Dickinson (who was, inexplicably, with Lizzie Grubman), Miss J. Alexander, and Phillip Bloch. The photographers were having a field day, but they went totally bananas when AnnaLyne McCord (Naomi from 90210) came from backstage.
Where to Buy: Click here for retail locations.

Where & When: Friday, September 11th at noon, the Salon, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: When I read in Wenlan Chia's notes that her Twinkle collection was inspired by Yoko Ono and Blondie, I thought, "Oh no, even Twinkle has jumped on the '80s bandwagon." So I was expecting the worst, but I was pleasantly surprised by what came down the runway: airy knits and silky dresses of all shapes in everything from strong black-and-white to soft pastel prints to bold magenta and mint green. It was a bit of something for everyone, but every look accomplished what Chia does so well, which is expertly straddle the line between soft femininity and edgy cool. Chia played with volume throughout--sometimes on top, sometimes on bottom, and sometimes all over--but I think the looks that managed to contain it, such as in the sheath and chemise dresses, were the most successful.
Standout Look: Chia always has interesting prints in her collections, and I was particularly intrigued by this one, which featured a mix of stripes and flowers, once again evocative of her pretty-but-cool aesthetic. The dress also had pleats and tucks which worked well with the geographic nature of the pattern.
Bonus Points: My first Gossip Girl sighting of the week! Yin Chang, the actress who plays Nelly Yuki, sat front row.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Friday, September 11th at 11 a.m., the Promenade, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: I'm often asked what designers I'd wear if money were no object, and one of my answers is always Yigal Azrouel. He is a master of draping, and his clothes manage to look both incredibly sexy and totally relaxed at the same time--you'd think that wearing them instantly makes you one of those effortlessly cool people who seems at ease in her own skin. Which is what must happen when one wears his modern-goddess asymmetrical jersey dresses, layered with bandeau bras, that came down the runway today. There were also pleated, cropped pants (which seems to be the shape for fall thus far, as I've been seeing them everywhere), tops with shoulder detail, drool-worthy washed leather jackets, and, for an extra measure of sexiness, ruched bandage and cutout dresses (yet another trend for spring). These are the clothes my dreams are made of: trend-conscious, but not overtly fashion-victimy; sexy, but subtle; feminine, but not girly; not perfect, but just right.
Standout Look: This slightly '80s-ish dress was one of my favorites of the collection. It has just a bit of the Yigal-signature draping at the waist, and the shoulder embellishment is new for him. Between the shoulder detail and the waist draping, plus the subtly shaped skirt, this dress is sensually designed to emphasize the waist, which, if you ask me, is never a bad thing.
Bonus Points: Much ado has been made about the sexiness of Azrouel himself, a rare straight male designer in a women's and gay men's world. After seeing him take his runway bow, let me just say, Katie Lee Joel, I totally get it.
Where to Buy: Yigal Azrouel boutique, 408 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.).

Where & When: Friday, September 11th at 9 a.m., the Salon, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: There has been much debate over what, in these recessionary times, will get women shopping again, but the consensus is, to paraphrase the famous Marshall Field, give the woman what she wants. And I bet a lot of women will want nearly everything that came down the runway at the Cynthia Steffe show: pretty pastel-hued dresses and softly draped tops, with great-looking trench coats (from cropped to full-length) and metallic fabrics sprinkled throughout. Oh, and ruffles everywhere. The truth is, (most) women want to feel feminine, and if sugary-sweet--but very well done--clothes like these don't inspire ladies to whip out their credit cards next spring, then only a miracle can save the retail industry.
Standout Look: The airy, floral-print dress with its tiered drop-waist skirt pretty much screams "SPRING!" but while the cropped, draped jacket's unexpected lavender hue is also exciting, it's in a more mellow, even-keeled way. Now don't you totally want a cropped lavender motorcycle jacket for spring?
Bonus Points: The happy, breathy music--"Little Bit" by Lykke Li and "Only Love Can Break Your Heart" by Saint Etienne--was perfectly suited to the happy, breathy clothes.
Where to Buy: Find a store near you here.

Where & When: Thursday, September 10th at 7 p.m., Julie Haus pop-up store
Runway Recap: Known for her cheerful feminine dresses, bright colors, and signature prints, Julie Haus seems to be feeling the depression/recession for spring. Sticking to a somber color palette of primarily black, gray, and white with hints of green and pink, Haus was inspired by Charlie Chaplin--there was a "tramp" romper, a "bandit" top, as well as a "ringmaster" jacket. The collection featured several great boyfriend blazers and many versions of the season's prevalent pant thus far, a pleated, slightly cropped style with a tapered leg. There were a few too many rompers for my liking, but the satiny dresses throughout more than made up for it. Taking her look in a darker direction was a risk, but, in this case, one that paid off--the Julie Haus girl may be slumming it downtown, but at the end of the night, she's heading back uptown.
Standout Look: I thought this look--one of the few with color--was an interesting study in proportion: the loose-fitting boyfriend blazer over a cropped top (they're ba-ack!) and printed full skirt. I also liked the styling, courtesy of Elle's Kate Lanphear--many looks in the collection featured odd hats, and all were paired with either oxford shoes or Doc Marten boots.
Bonus Points: Having Beauty.com as a sponsor is key, because the gift bags are always awesome. This one contained goodies from Arcona, Stila, and Oscar Blandi.
Where to Buy: The Julie Haus pop-up shop, 93 Mercer St. (Spring & Broome Sts.), and many more retailers here.

Where & When: Thursday, September 10th at 5 p.m., the Salon, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: Rosa Cha is a Brazilian line of swimwear that has been strongly associated with that wonder of modern engineering, the Brazilian bikini. Long known for its uber-sexy designs, the label is in the midst of a huge change: Avant garde Brazilian designer Alexandre Herchcovitch is now the creative director, and this collection marked his runway debut. I am happy to say that while there was still plenty of sexiness on display--cutouts galore, and, yes, those barely-there bottoms--there was whimsy and cool too. With a quirky mix of retro shapes, bright citrus colors, stripes, and woven details, think of the reinvented Rosa Cha as the thinking woman's Brazilian swimsuit.
Standout Look: While the collection's retro gray and hip black-and-white striped bikinis are more what I'd actually wear on the beach, this suit simply made me smile. The bright colors instantly make you think of a tropical vacation, and the woven effect reminded me of these potholders I used to make when I was a child. Plus, it's the best of both worlds--the look of a bikini, with the comfort of a little extra stomach coverage.
Bonus Points: The casting for this show was very well done--the very diverse group of models ranged from cool to sexy (instead of a barrage of all-Brazilian glamazons), and all looked vibrant and healthy in their suits. (You will not, however, catch me talking about whether their thighs were jiggling.)
Where to Buy: Rosa Cha store, 460 W. Broadway.

Intended to shop
But drinking got in the way.
Sloppy in Soho.

So, how was Fashion's Night Out for you?

Where & When: Thursday, September 10th at 11 a.m., the Promenade, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: It's business time! Although interlaced with some more casual drapey numbers, this Davidelfin collection felt like filling out a timesheet at a seriously cool corporation. Ties, blazers, and weekenders throughout, littered with shocking distractions such as missing blazer sleeves, tattoos, and blindingly orange hair. The palette had predominantly dark neutrals and pastel greens. The ladies sported boxy long blazers and cardigans while the men were dressed in more form-fitting garb, occasionally saran-wrapped in tube tops.



Standout Look: A toga draped over dress shirt and tie. Business + casual.
Bonus Points: The most prominent model was a female doppelganger of David Bowie, triggering flashbacks to his genderless alien form in Nicholas Roeg's The Man Who Fell To Earth. Gorgeous sparkly blue shoes caught my eye again and again, and the eerily cool soundtrack that was an inventive pairing for this particular line. It should also be noted that Grammy-nominated singer Amerie graced this show with her lovely presence.
Where to Buy: Click here for Davidelfin's homepage.

Where & When: Thursday, September 10th at 3 p.m., the Tent, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: Ports 1961's designer, Tia Cibani, tends to base each collection on a different faraway land (Iceland, India, etc.), and while her program notes didn't specify an exact location this time around, there was a definite Japanese inspiration, from the ink-print dresses that opened the show to the obi belts and origami pleats that transpired throughout. Cibani has a true eye for fabrics, creating architectural shapes out of organza and draped silhouettes from slinky metallics, and the way she constructs garments shows a true understanding of a woman's body and what flatters it.
Standout Look: With Cibani's light hand, Japanese-inspired details like the obi belt seem delicate and feminine, not costumey. I liked how this dress appeared to float away from the body while still emphasizing the waist.
Bonus Points: Don't get me wrong--I love beauty products as much as the next girl, but I really like it when designers feed you. So thanks to Ports 1961 for the nougat candies--they were the perfect mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Thursday, September 10th at 2 p.m., the Promenade, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: Fashion shows tend to last, at maximum, 10 minutes. However, put three of them together and 30 minutes seems like a very long time. I'm just saying. Nicholas K started out the show with a jarring series of brightly colored '80s-inspired looks but segued into more familiar territory with her signature slouchy, draped shapes in dusty plaids and neutrals. Next came Whitney Port's Whitney Eve collection, and perhaps no one told her that this was spring, not fall, because the Dynasty-goes-to-L.A. looks were heavy on metallic and brocade fabrics that aren't exactly suited to warmer temperatures. Mara Hoffman closed the show with what she does best: flirty jersey dresses in brightly colored prints.
Standout Look: Nicholas K is at its best with cool, loose-fitting casual looks, like this open-front jacket, tee, and harem-esque pants-the look is easygoing and totally feels like spring. Whitney Eve was filled with no-brainer party dresses like this one, soon to be seen in paparazzi shots of your favorite reality starlets as they stumble drunk out of Les Deux. Mara Hoffman didn't necessarily reinvent the wheel with any of her printed dresses, but when they're as great as this kaleidoscope-print number, why not stick with what you know?
Bonus Points: When so many shows feature anonymous techno music, it's fun to be able to sing along. So props for "She's Like a Rainbow" by the Rolling Stones, "Ooh La La" by Goldfrapp, "Take Me I'm Yours" by Squeeze, and "Sweet Dreams Are Made of This" by the Eurythmics.
Where to Buy: Click here for Nicholas K; here for Whitney Eve; and here for Mara Hoffman.

Vena Cava Spring 2010
Where & When: Thursday, September 10th at noon, Milk Studios
Runway Recap: Words cannot describe how excited I was to be invited to the Vena Cava show; it's one thing to be invited to a show of a designer you appreciate, and another thing entirely to be invited to a show of a designer you truly admire (and wear). And so watching the Vena Cava show felt like shopping--I literally made stars on the run sheet next to the looks I want to buy. There was so much great stuff: unique prints, flowy chiffon dresses, fluttery jersey dresses, tribal details, slouchy pants and blazers, and even some punk-rock details. The styling was cool (all the models wore sunglasses), the makeup was cool (purple lips and nails), and, yes, the clothes were cool.
Standout Look: The subtle mix of textures and prints--the printed and solid silk with a striped elastic belt--make a somewhat complicated idea totally easy to wear. This was one of many great dresses in the collection.
Bonus Points: This was my first show at Milk Studios, the "cool kids" alternate venue downtown, and aside from the fact that I had no phone reception, Milk gets two thumbs up from me. The show had a very democratic first-come-first-serve seating plan (hence how I ended up in the front row), and, for extra bonus points, the Fiery Furnaces provided live music.
Where to Buy: Click here for store locations.

BCBG Max Azriz Spring 2010
Where & When: Thursday, September 10th at 10 a.m., the Tent, Bryant Park
Runway Recap: I don't know about you, but BCBG is always one of my go-to labels for fun party dresses. And that's exactly what Max Azria sent down the runway today: a focused collection of 30 or so party-ready dresses, most in brightly colored or printed jersey, some draped, and some bandage-style with mesh cutouts. One-shoulder styles were still in full effect, as were body-conscious fits. It was a collection that celebrated youth and a carefree attitude, and who can argue with that?
Standout Look: There were bright colors and fun prints galore, but, let's face it, black dresses sell well. The cutouts on this are bra-friendly, and the draping is a bit more forgiving than many of the other dresses in the collection.
Bonus Points: BCBG is always one of the first shows of Fashion Week, and it's always a fun way to start the season--the show is always packed, and always draws a bunch of top fashion editors. Today, I had a perfect view of none other than Ms. Anna Wintour, who was seated directly across the runway from me.
Where to Buy: At the 562 BCBG stores worldwide, and BCBG.com.

Haleh Nematzadeh Spring 2010
Where & When: Wednesday, September 9th at 8 p.m., Morrison Hotel
Runway Recap: Standing in line for Haleh Nematzadeh's show on the Bowery and being heckled by the bums, I felt like I was being transported back in time--isn't the Bowery supposed to be all cleaned up and condo-ed out by now? That ended up being a fitting experience, because the Downtowny designer's collection was inspired by Paradise Garage, Danceteria, and the dance clubs of days past. In other words, it was a mega '80s collection, with huge shoulder pads, leggings, and fringe. Much of it was club-friendly, a point further driven by the use of blacklight during the second half of the show (which inspired the pissed-off photographers to shout "Lights! Lights!").
Standout Look: Amidst all of the clubby, '80s clothes, there were some great ideas, and some very wearable clothes. I was particularly taken with this chain-fringe vest, layered over a leather-look catsuit. Not exactly a work-friendly look (well, unless you work in a club), but totally hot.
Bonus Points: Open bar, check. Gift bag, check. Celebrity model (Lydia Hearst), check.
Where to Buy: Click here for retailers.

Cheryl Shops at New York Fashion Week
Starting tomorrow, it's all Fashion Week all the time here at Cheryl Shops--once again, I'll be covering the shows, and I'm happy to report that I've been invited to so many this time, I'm actually taking 3 days off of work. I am also enlisting the help of my friend Mina, who takes excellent photos, so expect to see some posts from her as well. Sales and all regular Cheryl Shops content will return the week after next. In the meantime, I'll be posting reviews when I can, but for real-time updates, please follow me on Twitter.

And, don't forget, Thursday night is Fashion's Night Out, which promises freebies, cocktails, entertainment, and all sorts of shopping fun. Do it--you don't want to disappoint Anna Wintour, do you?

Once you get home from shopping, come back tomorrow night for the start of my Fashion Week coverage!

TheFind Guest Post: Ultra Velvet for Daytime Drama



Velvet is not just for evening anymore. These ultra modern velvet dresses are just as appropriate for day as they are for night. The look is simple and clean in gorgeous shades and graphic patterns. From burnout designs to pleats and geometrics, velvet dresses are a pretty way to infuse a bit of night time luxury into your wardrobe. This classic fabric has never looked so modern! Pair with simple but bold accessories. We love the shades of black and crimson for fall.

Minimal with an avant guard edge, the Alexander Wang Burnout Velvet Combo Dress ($420.00 at Shopbop.com, top left) is simplicity at its best. The dress features a jersey and velvet burnout asymmetric panel at the shoulder. From Diane von Furstenberg's Grano printed velvet wrap dress ($345 at Net-a-Porter) features an abstract all over animal print in striking jewel tones. I love the three quarter draped sleeves, low v-neck and self tie wide fabric belt. A pretty look for daytime with opaque tights with pumps then remove the tights for cocktails and pair bare legs with some strappy platform sandals. As seen on the runways, the Chloe Draped velvet dress ($2,940 at Net-a-Porter) adds dramatic the appeal of an '80s silhouette for one of the more noteworthy events on your agenda.

Pair pretty velvet pumps with a velvet dress or your favorite little black dress for a classic polished evening look. We found a pair of luxe Christian Louboutin Lady Page Velvet-Bow Pumps ($995 at NeimanMarcus.com) and for less pick up a pair of budget-friendly Mossimo Dulce Velvet Peep Toe Pumps in black ($24.99 at Target.com).

Save on your purchases with Coupon Codes from Neiman Marcus from TheFind.com's new coupon site

Content provided by TheFind in partnership with Cheryl Shops

MasstigeWatch: Anna Sui for Target
Anna Sui's collection for Target doesn't hit stores until Sunday, but being the privileged New Yorkers that we are, we get to shop the line early, thanks to a handy pop-up shop that's opening in Soho just in time for Fashion's Night Out. As you likely already know, the collaboration is inspired by Gossip Girl's four female characters--Serena, Blair, Jenny, and Vanessa--but draws heavily on Anna Sui's archive, which is good news for her fans who haven't always been able to afford the runway looks. I am also happy to report that, like spring's Alexander McQueen collaboration, the prices--and therefore, the quality--appear to run a bit higher than the Go Internationals; in other words, expect pieces in silk, leather, and cotton. So to help you maximize your time inside the pop-up store, here are my favorite looks from the collection.

The Blair looks are full of super-feminine dresses; I am not so sure a woman of my age can pull them off well, but if I were still in my 20s, I'd be all over these. My favorite Blair look is this lace dress ($69.99), which reminds me also of something Mia Farrow would've worn in Rosemary's Baby. It's very sweet, but a little sexy too.


The Vanessa looks probably won't work for me either, but only because of the color palette--if you are an "autumn," these are for you. This retro varsity cardigan ($44.99) and silk (!) wrap dress ($59.99) is a vast improvement over much of the kooky "I'm from Brooklyn" costumes Vanessa wears on the show.


The Serena styles are definitely more my speed. This looks like a pretty nice leather jacket for $149.99 (similar styles by contemporary designers can run into the high three figures), and the satin shift ($59.99) looks like a fun party dress for those who, like me, qualify as "ruler" shapes.


Speaking of party dresses, this metallic bouclé dress ($69.99) has feather trim at the bust, and it totally seems like something Serena would wear to a Meatpacking District bar, or to a party she throws in her apartment while Lily is off galavanting around with Rufus.


But I suspect Ms. Sui felt a kinship with the rebellious, fashion-obsessed character of Jenny, since her looks seem most representative of Anna Sui in general. Take, for example, this printed off-the-shoulder silk dress ($59.99), which seems so Sui to me.


I also love this mixed-print silk tunic ($49.99), which you can layer for the fall or wear on its own in warmer weather.


My absolute favorite look--which I've written about before--is this ruched-trim nylon jacket ($79.99) over a printed silk wrap dress ($59.99). The jacket is a cute update of a totally practical style, and the dress is completely versatile. I'm totally making a beeline for these two pieces on Thursday night.


The Anna Sui pop-up shop is open 9/10-9/12 from 11-8 at 54 Crosby St. (Spring & Broome Sts.). Otherwise, the collection hits your local Target store on Sunday, September 13.

The week in shopping
Clothingline is hosting yet another J.Crew sample sale, with prices up to 70% off retail. 9/10-9/17; 11-7 weekdays (except Wednesday, 11-6), 10-5 weekends; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.

Or, if you prefer regular J.Crew, use code EXTRA20 for an extra 20% off final sale through 9/10.

Classic ballet flats--and trendier versions--are $109 or less at French Sole's sale. Through 9/10; 10-7; 976 Lexington Ave. (at 71st St.).

Cheryl Shops fave Auto is holding a fall yard sale, featuring home decor, clothing, and accessories from Missoni, John Derian, Meg Cohen, and more for at least 50% off. 9/10–9/13; 11-7, 11-6 Sun.; 803-805 Washington St. (Gansevoort & Horatio Sts.).

Showroom Seven's fall sample sale features Issa, Bloch London, Tony Cohen, and other cool designers at steep discounts. 9/8-9/22; 10-7; 263 11th Ave. (27th & 28th Sts.).

Fall merch is hitting Housing Works; find treasures from Gucci, Prada, DVF, and other coveted labels. 9/9–9/24; click here for locations.

Fancy watches for men and women are 50%-70% off at Tourneau's sample sale. 9/13-9/17; 9-6:30; 317 W. 33rd St. (8th & 9th Aves.).

Shelly & Renee are back with a fall designer sale, featuring gowns, outerwear, separates, and accessories from designers like Valentino and Pamella Roland for up to 80% off. 9/13–9/15; 1-7 Sun., 10-6 Mon., 10-5 Tues.; 36 Central Park South (5th & 6th Aves.), 5th fl.

Handbags are a mere $5-$60 at The Sak, Elliott Lucca, and Sakroots' fall sample sale. 9/10–9/11; 9-5 Thurs., 9-3 Fri.; 339 5th Ave. (at 33rd St.), 2nd fl.

Take 15% off your order at Delia*s with code SALE15 through 9/10.

Choose from two gifts at L/Occitane: use code AROMA for a gift with a $90 purchase or HAIRCARE for a gift with a $60 purchase.

TheFind Guest Post: The Golden Touch for Fall Dressing



Gilt is a good thing this fall. Yes metallics are with us again this season. In addition to the metal stud trend is the appearance of warmer shades of gold and bronze.

Metallic leggings are one version of the many styles of skinny leg coverings for fall. We love these Helmut Lang metallic stretch leggings ($275.00 at Saks.com). Go for muted shades of metallic leggings such as bronze of antique gold. Metallic bronze leggings pair nicely with black boots. Lamé fabric is a great way to infuse metallics into your wardrobe with a softer more romantic look. One example is this Milly dress made of silk with a botanical print ($415 at Net-a-Porter) .

Gold metallic accessories are eclectic and bold. All of the pieces shown are statement pieces combined or alone. The organic shape of the Emilio Pucci bean-shaped clutch ($1,385 at Net-a-Porter) makes it one of the top obsessions for fall. So unique, it an object that can set the tone of an entire look. Missoni's square link bracelet is a hybrid of a chain link bracelet and a cuff. Bold and offset with a whimsical tassel, this bracelet will look gorgeous set against either sleeveless black sheath or black cashmere turtleneck. Oscar de la Renta's grommet platform sandal's elasticized straps are a bold contrast of black and gold with a dramatic contemporary design ($675.00 at Neimanmarcus.com).

Top off your metallic look with a subtle hint of metallic eyeshadow such as Bobbi Brown's metallic long wear cream eyeshadow ($22 at shop.nordstrom.com). See coupon codes for Nordstrom.

Content provided by TheFind in partnership with Cheryl Shops

MasstigeWatch!
Nitrolicious has pictures this to-die-for over-the-knee boot from the forthcoming Jimmy Choo for H&M collection, hitting stores November 14th. H&M confirms that the boot is real leather, and will retail for $299. Since over-the-knee boots are one of the hottest items for fall, one can only imagine how coveted these will be.

And: This isn't quite masstige per se, but tucked into Fashion Scoops in last week's WWD was this tasty tidbit:

Temperley London’s world is about to get a little larger. The London-based ready-to-wear label will launch a second line for spring, with slightly lower price points than the main collection. Prices for the line, which is yet to be named, will run from $50 to $500, according to sources close to the company.

So this is definitely good news for the Alice Temperley lovers out there who find the main collection a bit on the pricey side ($50-$500 is significantly lower than her regular line). I will, of course, share more details as I have them.

Finally, Anna Sui's Gossip Girl–themed collection for Target doesn't hit stores until September 13th, but Target is opening a special pop-up shop in Soho in time for Fashion's Night Out next Thursday. The store will be open 9/10-9/12; The Cut has the details. As for the collection itself, I will show you my favorite looks sometime in the next few days.

Buy it: Digby & Iona Lusca ring
When I first moved to NYC 10 years ago, Williamsburg was a somewhat sketchy neighborhood in its early gentrification period; my dear friend HG lived there in loft apartment that was easily the size of a high school gymnasium, and it was around the corner from the infamous bar Cokie's. Now, whenever I go to Williamsburg, I marvel at all the people, restaurants, high-rise condos, and, yes, the stores. I spent Saturday afternoon shopping in the 'burg with my friend MK, a seasoned Williamsburg resident, and to celebrate the two-days-early arrival of our respective paychecks, she took me to some of her regular haunts. A great thing about shopping in the outer boroughs, where rents are more affordable than in Manhattan, is that stores can be more selective and specialized with their merchandise, without charging an arm and a leg for it. One of my favorite shops we hit was Catbird, a tiny jewel box of a store, offering quirky jewelry and home accessories like candles. The shop has an antiquey feel, with the jewelry housed in curio-type cabinets along the walls. I should mention that they were having a sale when I was there; select items were 40% off. True to my nature, I fell in love with an item that wasn't on sale: this Lusca ring by Brooklyn-based jeweler Digby & Iona (Catbird has a similar, albeit smaller, style, the Seppie ring, on their website). The Lusca is an octopus with a hammered, vintage look; it's oversized, and its tentacles extend out over your other fingers. It's definitely a statement piece, but it doesn't scream cocktail ring--it's more like you found it in the bottom of a trunk or in your great-grandmother's jewelry box. At $280, it's not necessarily a bargain, but considering its size and that it comes in sterling silver (or matte vermeil), I think it's worth a little splurge. Unique jewelry like this doesn't go out of style, and considering its unusual look, it could definitely become a signature piece. Hopefully it will still be there by the time my next paycheck arrives.