Cheryl Shops

At some point every Fashion Week, usually on Sunday, I hit a low. The weekend shows are generally a debacle, with crashers galore, and people start drinking early in the afternoon in the tents, which tends to magnify bad behavior. Then between the rain and a rather rude email I got from a publicist who shall remain unnamed, I did not arrive at the Walter show at the Style 360 venue in good spirits. That all changed when I found out I had backstage access (which, if I had known about, I would've arrived way earlier); this was completely unexpected, but I decided to roll with it.


By the time I got backstage, all of the models were already made up and dressed, but since shows never start on time, I got to witness their pre-game rituals. This included dancing.


I then walked around snapping all the fun stuff backstage, like extra hair extensions, the run of show, and the stage direction.






Soon the models were all lined up and ready to start the show.


After assessing the situation outside, I decided to try something new and watch the entire show from backstage. Here's what it looked like.








And then it was all over! Granted, I didn't pay as much attention to the clothes as I normally do, but as we all know, Walter makes trend-conscious contemporary clothes at great prices, and from what I saw of the spring collection, it looked like a winner to me. As for being backstage, it was so much fun, I wondered why I hadn't done it before, and I'm definitely going to try to do it as much as possible next season!

Where & When: Sunday, September 12 at 3 p.m., the Stage, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: Often when I look at my show notes, they make little to no sense. However, for Max Azria's show on Sunday, I wrote "CREAMY" in all caps and underlined it, and, really, it's a completely apt word to describe his spring collection. It was a series of languid, fluid maxi dresses and loose trousers, the beauty of which was enhanced by the movement that the runway allows. Also in my notes: "perfect summer" and "backs." For the latter, there were all manner of back details, from cutouts to cowls; for the former, well, these are the sort of clothes you end up living in all summer. The palette was limited to super-neutral beiges, creams, and black, with a hint of pale peach and mint, and while color is exciting, let's face it--most of us live in neutrals anyway.
Standout Look: I heard women all around me murmuring in pleasure as the airy silk crepe dresses sailed down the runway; this one is the stuff summer dreams are made of.
Bonus Points: Ed Harcourt's song "Haywired" provided the perfectly relaxed soundtrack for Azria's languid collection. Also, ever one to pack in the celebs, Azria had Solange Knowles, Alison Brie, Estelle, Katrina Bowden, and Leigh Lezark in the front row.
Where to Buy: Visit maxazria.com for stores.

Where & When: Sunday, September 12 at 1 p.m., Stephan Weiss Studio
Runway Recap: When one thinks of iconic New York sportswear, Donna Karan's DKNY instantly comes to mind--few other lines capture the energy and spirit of the city so well. The program notes described a "fresh breeze," but I found, even more so, an overwhelming sense of optimism in the collection: New Yorkers are tired of the sobriety of the recession, and we're ready to shop. Thankfully, there was plenty of wonderful stuff from which to choose. Karan started with nicely tailored blazers and twill skirts and then unleashed a joyous series of ruffled skirts, dresses, and even swimsuits, first in vivid red and turquoise, then in unabashedly feminine floral prints. There was a certain coquettish French undercurrent (perhaps the DKNY girl recently spent some time overseas), but, hey, Paris is a great city too.
Standout Looks: Karan introduced two accessories that, come spring, will likely be indispensable to one's wardrobe: the DKNY heritage scarf cozy, a huge silky printed scarf; and the bow belt, which added an extra dose of femininity to the myriad ruffled looks. Let it be noted: I am absolutely in love with this red ensemble (and not that my feminist self would advise you to dress specifically for men, but if there ever was a husband-snaring outfit, I think this would be it).
Bonus Points: The super-colorful backdrop--a series of posters featuring New York–centric wordplay, designed by Monsieur Cabinet--perfectly set the mood for the fresh and optimistic show.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Sunday, September 12th at 9:00pm, Lincoln Center Studio.
Presentation Recap: Vassilios was possibly the last show in the Studio tent of the evening, and despite how tired people were, the show was an artistic treat that made me forget the aches in my back and feet. Vassilios focuses this collection around the Greek Amazons, incorporating urn graphics, feather textures, gold embellishments, and chain mail into his ensembles. The colors peaked noticeably at one point to a bright cyan, and later on to blinding shimmery white. Lots of long ponytails and head wraps to complete the looks.
Standout Look: Who could resist leering at the handful of nearly-nude models sporting bikinis and boxer briefs? Though I have to say, my lady-loving seat neighbor's attempts to excitedly talk to me about the females in bikinis fell pretty flat as I was not about to take the time to indulge him.
Bonus Points: I must have missed the memo, but a lot of the attendees were dressed in a Blade Runner-esque theme. Mohawks, broad shoulders, and one guy had a real turtle shell around his neck (though he swears he didn't kill it himself).
Where to Buy: Click here to view collection.

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.

Tadashi Shoji
Thank god fashion shows are only 10 minutes long max, because they are intense for everyone involved. I spend them scrutinizing the clothes, taking photos, taking notes, and thinking about the big picture, i.e. what is the point of this show and what does it all mean? (Ok, maybe my thoughts aren't that deep, but I do ponder what I'm going to write about in my review.) Thankfully, with Tadashi Shoji, you don't have to think so much, and I mean that as a total compliment. His dresses are simply beautiful, and, really, that's all there is to it. This season he was inspired by Della Francesca and Botticelli, and the result was a series of icy-cool frocks, some with an obvious draped Grecian look, others that evoked flower petals. There were gowns, sheaths, cocktail dresses, and every last one was stunning. And sometimes stunning is all you need.

Kaelen
During Fashion Week, I always try to make time to see a handful of newer designers, and so I was glad I trekked out to West Chelsea Saturday morning, in spite of a rather pounding post-Fashion's Night Out hangover, to check out Kaelen Farncombe's latest collection. It was inspired by a tornado-chasing trip, which translated into beautifully streaky silk prints in pale shades of gray. It was all very minimalist, but in spite of the rainy theme, nothing felt cold or clinical. In fact, I found myself mentally shopping the collection, from the textured sweaters to the relaxed shorts suits. One of the most promising new designers I've seen, I can't wait to see what inspires Kaelen's next collection.

Yoana Baraschi
For the spring outing of her contemporary line, Yoana Baraschi took the theme of fallen angels and translated it somewhat literally into bird prints and a dress with a tiered feather skirt. Throughout were a series of sweet printed dresses, many with ruffles and fluttery sleeves, and very wearable separates, like a tie-waist ruffled jacket and a nice pair of wide-leg linen trousers. In the contemporary world, which often chases the super-trendy customer, it's always refreshing to see a designer embracing such an overtly feminine aesthetic. I know plenty of women who enjoy dressing this way, and well, they like to shop. Now I know where to send them.

When & Where: Saturday, September 11 at 2 p.m., the Stage, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: Adam Lippes worked for Oscar de la Renta for years, which is not something that his urbane basics generally bring to mind. But in his spring collection, inspired by Charlotte Gainsbourg's character in the movie The City of Your Final Destination, Lippes took a decidedly more feminine direction, and it was completely refreshing. The collection featured a series of flouncy lace dresses that were almost childlike in their innocence and sweetness. In between, he sent some great sportswear down the runway, from chunky yet open-knit sweaters to some of the best high-waisted flare pants I've seen. The palette was a dreamy blend of peach, ivory, and gray, punctuated with some fabulous red Manolo Blahnik sandals (which, yes, I could actually see from my seat). If your style falls firmly into the feminine category, I suggest marching straight over to Adam next season--so far, nobody has done it better this week.
Standout Look: Of all the pretty dresses Lippes showed, this one was my favorite. It's hard to see from the photo, but the lower part is actually eyelet. It's an update of the sack dress, which is, in my opinion, a highly underutilized shape (it hides a multitude of sins), and it's versatile.
Bonus Points: I was super happy to finally be invited to Adam, and as I mentioned before, my seat was low enough that I could actually see the model's shoes (a rarity for me). Win-win!
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Friday, September 10 at 5 p.m., 82 Mercer Street
Runway Recap: When it comes to fashion, I believe in having an open mind. For example, Nicole Miller has a line for J.C. Penney, and because of that, I worry that people associate her with sensible, career-woman wear. And while Miller does make a lot of clothing that suits the working woman (not that that's anything to complain about), I feel that she doesn't get enough attention for making really fashion-forward clothes that easily integrate into one's wardrobe. Miller is in her 50s, but what she showed on Friday puts her in line talent-wise with designers half her age--designers, that is, whom the critics tend to fawn over. Miller captured spring's airy silk chiffon moment but mixed it with harnesses and, dare I say, bondage-inspired details. It was all very innerwear-as-outerwear, but lest it get too kinky, she kept it all very practical by layering with tailored vests and jackets. With back cowls and cutouts, never before has the phrase "business in the front, party in the back" been so apt.
Standout Look: This is actually only two pieces--a leather vest with built-in drape, and a jersey-georgette dress--but their layered effect makes it look all the more complex and harmonious at the same time in that the structure of the vest anchors the diaphanous dress.
Bonus Points: Nicole Miller loves bloggers, and for that I love her. And, also, because she always puts my name on my chair, and that makes me feel special.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Sunday, September 12th at 11:00am, Exit Art.
Presentation Recap: Simon Spurr showed off an impressive Spring 2011 line, featuring absolutely perfect outfits for the stylish man who doesn't mind showing off his inner mod. Big zippers, big-buttoned pockets, and big plaid made a big impression on me. Three-piece suits created from one fabric, but not overpowering. Motorcycle jackets ranging from classic to futuristic.
Standout Look: Pick a plaid suit, any suit. Paired with some Black Keys playing in the background.
Bonus Points: As usual, hip plastic-frame spectacles topped some of the looks, tipping them towards either geek chic or euro sleek. Also, I can't -not- mention that the male models at Spurr, as always, are consistently high caliber.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Friday, September 10 at 3 p.m., the Theatre, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: Long designed by Tia Cibani, her sister, Fiona, has now taken over Ports 1961 and, well, let's just say there's a new sheriff in town. The line still draws inspiration from far-flung locales (this collection drew from the North African desert), but I found the line to be...a bit different. Yes, the fabrics were gorgeous, with rich shades of purple and green and sapphire blue, and prints that evoked sandy landscapes. Yes, the collection was glamorous, with sensually draped cuts and fluid shapes. Yes, the models, with their pumped-up hair and doe eyes, looked sexy. And yet, I felt that something was missing--Ports 1961 caters toward a working woman, and I couldn't help but think most of the dresses shown were not appropriate for a professional woman, at least for daytime wear. Where were the modernized sheath dresses and layering jackets, the smart skirts and foundation-making shells? I hope for Ports 1961's loyal clientele that there were more practical looks that didn't quite make it to the runway.
Standout Look: That said, I absolutely loved this dress, from the color to the shape--it was sexy but smart. (And because the back was so gorgeous, I'm including a shot of that too).
Bonus Points: Ports 1961 called in the big guns for this show--Freja Beha opened, and Estee Lauder face Hilary Rhoda walked in it as well.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Friday, September 10 at 2 p.m., the Stage, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: Rating celebrities' red carpet attire has literally become a sport. And yet while I am quick to judge red-carpet looks (I favor the unconventional and fashion-forward), I can't imagine how stressful stylists' jobs are, although the Rachel Zoe Project has given us some insight. There are so many things to take into account, but I'd imagine that how a dress photographs is pretty high in importance. Georges Chakra is a prominent red-carpet player, and while watching his show was beautiful and engaging, it wasn't until I was going through my film that I realized how red-carpet-savvy his designs were. In short, everything photographs amazingly, from the black and white sheath dresses that opened the show to the liquid metallic gowns that closed it. In between were brilliant jolts of color, in purple, teal, and saffron yellow, some with ombré effect, others with cage and basketweave detailing. It was all designed to thrill, and, really, it will--you can bet your fantasy league on it.
Standout Look: Purple has unexpectedly become a prominent color thus far for spring, but the ombré effect of this gown made it truly stunning, with beading at the neckline for extra sparkle. The ombré actually turns into a gold-ish color, not white, which made it all the more unique.
Bonus Points: My seat was at the very end of the runway, and the models thankfully paused there, allowing me to examine each dress for more than the usual split second. It's the little things, I tell you.
Where to Buy: Visit georgeschakra.com for stores.

Where & When: Friday, September 10 at noon, the Studio, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: I attended a blogger conference on Thursday, and one of the keywords was "niche," as in carve out a market for yourself, and specialize in it. Michael Angel is definitely what I'd call a niche designer; he specializes in truly unique, graphic prints, and having attended his shows for the last few seasons, it's been interesting to see how he expands on that specialty. For spring, his prints took on a dreamy watercolor quality in beautiful shades of purple and magenta, and he worked in boxy yet opaque layers of latex to play with transparency. I think designers are so much more interesting and successful when they set parameters for themselves, then explore the reaches of those limits; this is exactly what Michael Angel does. He does take risks--I have a feeling the dickeys he showed are not going to take off, and exposed midriffs are not for everyone--but from those risks comes truly innovative, forward-thinking design.
Standout Look: While I found the latex pieces an interesting contrast to the prints, especially in that they let a muted version of the print peek through, I found the most wearable pieces to be the simple printed separates. Angel does deserve praise for the architectural yet draped look of his skirts, and--I am a stickler for this--everything was impeccably fitted.
Bonus Points: There's a newfangled technology at the tents which allows you to scan your press pass and get all your seating assignments for the day. I had no idea I was even invited to this show, but I was pleasantly surprised to be. Ah, technology.
Where to Buy: Shop online here.

Where & When: Friday, September 10 at 10 a.m., the Theatre, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: Fashion cognoscenti (of which I am not) may look to Marc Jacobs for the barometer of what's cool, but, believe it or not, I look to BCBG (which maybe explains why I'm not the fashion cognoscenti). It's an empire, yes, with stores all over the world, but Max and Lubov Azria definitely have their fingers on the pulse of what young, stylish women want to wear, and the brand is always, always trend-right. So far, the biggest trend to emerge from Fashion Week is minimalism, and, really, New York is several seasons behind Paris on this one, but that's how it always works. Minimalism, which had its heyday in the 90s, was a reaction to the excesses of the 1980s, and if you think about it, it's time for a revival. From reality starlets and celebutantes to subprime mortgages, the aughts were pretty extravagant, so in these days of dialing back one's spending and embracing the simpler joys in life, it makes total sense that minimalism is staging a comeback. That said, BCBG's collection of mostly dresses was incredibly restrained and yet totally youthful. The BCBG girl no longer needs the overdesigned bandage dresses of spring/summer 2010; she has embraced a looser silhouette (continuing the narrative from fall), and with even fewer bells and whistles. The show opened with a series of all-white dresses, many with simple asymmetrical flounces, slowly transitioning to gray, then to vibrant melon, and finally to black, with bits of lace there and there. It all looked so fresh and so clean (to quote Outkast), and you can almost guarantee that this is what we'll all be wearing next spring.
Standout Look: The little black dress will always be a fashion icon, but if there's a proverbial dark horse in the running, it's the little white dress, and BCBG showed many strong contenders. They looked like a breath of fresh spring air, perfectly cut with a not-too-tight, not-too-loose fit.
Bonus Points: Loaded with celebs and top fashion editors, I spotted Anna Wintour and all the Vogue editors, the Elle team, plus Ashlee Simpson, Kelly Rowland, Katrina Bowden, Coco Rocha, and celebutante Poppy Delvigne.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

...I went to seven shows, and then I ran all over Soho and the Meatpacking District for Fashion's Night Out. Reviews for the shows will be posted tomorrow and Sunday, as I am way too tired to write any now. As for FNO, I had an awesome time. Molton Brown had a very generous gift with purchase, which included a Hanky Panky thong that I got to personalize with crystals. At Space NK, I met Poppy King (of Lipstick Queen fame), who, herself, sold me on the Medieval lipstick. I ogled the $5,000 fur-collar camel jacket by Celine at Kirna Zabete (it is to die for). I discovered I can wear a size 4 at DKNY. Philip Crangi shucked oysters for me at the Crangi Family Project, and outside, I took a picture with Costello Tagliapietra (yep, that's it at right). I decided not to buy the $225 Proenza Schouler messenger bag at Jeffrey (that was hard to walk away from!). And then I hit a wall (figuratively), so my friends E, J & I made a pit stop in the West Village. Oh, and I drank. Lots. My one criticism is that certain boutiques were enforcing a guest list--isn't that contrary to the for-the-masses spirit of Fashion's Night Out? Also, maybe I could've used a bit more food. But a good time was had by all, and, believe it or not, I actually did some shopping this year. Did you?

Where & When: Thursday, September 9 from 4:30-6 p.m., Pier 59 studios
Runway Recap: Mara Hoffman took her signature vibrant prints on a fantastic voyage for spring. There was a strong tribal influence in the graphic look of the prints, and interspersed throughout were safari-ready pieces like a khaki jumpsuit and a army green romper. While the printed pants won't be for the faint of heart, her dresses are always crowd-pleasers, and with shapes ranging from short and fitted to long and flowy, there's really something for everyone.
Standout Look: This dress was my favorite--the print is colorful and vibrant, and the shape is sexy. It's like an instant vacation.
Bonus Points: This was an incredibly relaxed presentation, from the palm-tree set decor and live acoustic guitarists to the free mojitos and huge windows overlooking the Hudson. The models chatted with each other and sipped drinks--I was glad to see they were enjoying themselves as well.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Thursday, September 9 at noon, Milk Studios
Runway Recap: If you are a regular Cheryl Shops reader, you'll know that Vena Cava is one of my personal favorite lines; the silhouettes are equally sexy and understated, their colors and prints are interesting, and the clothes just have a chic look to them. Designers Lisa Mayock & Sophie Buhai, always tapped in to what cool girls want to wear, were influenced by the Memphis design movement of the '80s, which translated into bright but offbeat colors, geometric shapes, and an overall minimalist bent. The collection was very controlled and well thought-out, and it also showed a certain maturity (that's as in experience, not as in something that won't appeal to their hip demographic). That said, it should also be noted that Vena Cava can take offbeat, even grandmotherly things--colors like salmon and ochre, shapes like culottes and midcalf skirts--and make them instantly desirable.
Standout Look: While there were some great tailored pieces in the collection, the dresses really caught my attention. This one has a somewhat unusual color combination at the neckline, paired with a free-form (but not shapeless) silhouette. Also, overall, I loved the styling in the show--wide cloth headbands, chunky geometric necklaces, tied belts, and chunky wooden wedges.
Bonus Points: I was lucky to get into this show--MAC at Milk is a notoriously small venue, and even Susie Bubble was relegated to the standing-room-only area with me. That said, I was actually happy to stand, because for once, I could see down to the shoes, and my photos turned out pretty well. One thing that helped this: the mellow music and the models' languid pace, a refreshing alternative to the usual breakneck stomp.
Where to Buy: Click here for stores.

Where & When: Thursday, September 9 at 9 a.m., the Studio, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: A certain grungy influence has crept into fashion in recent seasons, but Nicholas K has been doing grunge for years--and does it better than most. Yes, you can now find skinny cargo pants, lightweight plaids, and flowy draped knits everywhere, but these looked so effortless and cool, why go anywhere else? Nicholas K kept things fresh by working in several deconstructed trenchcoats and decorating shirts and dresses with subtle pompom trim. For the guys, the aesthetic is similar: leather jackets and vests layered with plaid, sweatshirts, and cloaks.
Standout Look: Nicholas K excels at draped pieces, so it was refreshing to see that skill translate to jackets. The collar on this one perfectly frames the face, and I like the slightly boxy shape--it's a nice counterpoint to the ethereal dress underneath. It should also be noted that this jacket (the Luden) is part of Nicholas K's collection on the innovative new start-up Fashionstake.com--the collection is already at 50% of its funding, and you can help by investing in or pre-ordering this and several other items.
Bonus Points: The very first show in the Lincoln Center tents, I was incredibly impressed with how swiftly check-in worked. Amazing things happen when people embrace technology.
Where to Buy: Visit nicholask.com for stores.

Where & When: Wednesday, September 8 from 1-3 p.m., The Griffin
Runway Recap: The season 6 winner of Project Runway, Irina Shabayeva's show back in February was one of my favorites of the season--the rocker-chic collection walked a fine but fierce line between classy and trashy, with super-sexy skintight pants and gorgeous, dramatic jackets and capes. Shabayeva took a completely different tack for spring, focusing primarily on evening looks with a much softer feel. Beautifully draped dresses dominated, although an ornately mirrored mini hinted at Shabayeva's more extravagant side. And, note to future brides: If you're looking for a showstopper, there were several dramatic wedding gowns from which to choose.
Standout Look: Shabayeva played with draping and ombré throughout the collection, and these dresses were two of my favorites. They were the most modern and youthful-looking of the collection, the construction was top-notch, and the overall effect was incredibly flattering.
Bonus Points: Former model Veronica Webb was there to inspect the collection; Shabayeva herself worked the floor, chatting up guests and offering her insight on the collection.
Where to Buy: E-commerce coming soon to Irinashabayeva.com.

Once again, I'll be covering New York Fashion Week, so look for my coverage starting tomorrow. The lovely Mina will be helping me out--you can tell her posts right away because the photography is way, way better than mine. Anyway, I have a full schedule this season, and I'm really excited to share my reviews with you. For real-time updates, please follow me on Twitter and/or become a fan of Cheryl Shops on Facebook. I'll give you my best Anna Wintour death stare in gratitude!

When I lived on the West Side, I complained about going to the East Side; when I lived on the East Side, I complained about going to the West Side. Of course, now that I live in Brooklyn, I complain about going to both! But, really, West Chelsea feels like the end of the earth to me, although I do end up spending quite a bit of time there during Fashion Week. So I'm excited that while I'm in the neighborhood, I'll have time to stop by the Showroom Seven sample sale in between shows. Erickson Beamon, Charlotte Ronson, Orla Keily, Issa, and other indie designers will be on sale; the fact that I won't have to traipse around looking for a place in which to kill time is priceless. Through 9/22; 10-7; 263 11th Ave. (27th & 28th Sts.), 3rd fl.

Forget everything you know about brooches (ie: old-fashioned cameo pins and gaudy pearl-and-rhinestone creations from your grandmother's jewelry box). Alex and Chloe is bringing them back into the limelight after being way underrated and misunderstood for so long in the grand scheme of jewelry pieces. After all, considering all these revisited jewelry trends like oversized cocktail rings, bib necklaces, and costume pearls, it was only a matter of time before the brooch got a modern makeover! In the edgy accessory brand's Shadow and Light collection, the design duo reinvents brooches as quirky statement pieces that add an instant dose of personality to any outfit. In other words, these pins are no antique store rejects! Plus, they're unisex and universally cool -- who wouldn't want to rock an acrylic octopus on their collar? In all seriousness, aside from the funky animal silhouettes, I'm loving the mirrored "Alex and Chloe" mixtape and oversized diamond for a slightly campy, cheeky look. And for all you supermodel worshippers, make sure to check out the Kate Moss inspiration!

- Alex Gambardella


Content provided by TheFind in partnership with Cheryl Shops.

If you follow H&M on Facebook, you'll know that they've been releasing a bunch of teaser videos this week leading up to the big reveal of their upcoming fall designer collaboration. One video features a man in a skinny suit, and another features a lavishly dressed, heavily accented woman, leading fans to guess Tomas Maier for the former and Carolina Herrera for the latter. But Women's Wear Daily, ever the publication to cut through the b.s., speculates that Lanvin will be the next H&M designer collaboration [subscription required]. I trust WWD knows what they're talking about, but either way, the designer's actual identity will presumably be revealed on September 9th. I will refrain from commenting on how incredibly, ridiculously, stupendously excited I will be if Lanvin is, in fact, the mysterious collaborator, lest I be disappointed in case the rumors aren't true. But, to paraphrase Journey, I won't stop believing.

UPDATE: I have an email straight from H&M's publicist confirming that Lanvin is, in fact, the next designer collaboration! The collection will feature womenswear designed by Alber Elbaz and menswear by Lucas Ossendrjver and will hit 200 H&M stores worldwide, in North America on November 20 and elsewhere November 23rd. H&M will preview the collection via video on November 2nd. Can't wait!!

Here's the latest video--what do you think?