Preparations

I hope @OscarPRGirl won't mind my re-posting these gorgeous photos of the preparation leading up to Oscar de la Renta's fantastic spring runway show.  Above is the showroom the day before the show, and below are the first few walkers getting their final touch-ups from masters Orlando Pita (hair) and Gucci Westman (makeup).  L-R: Arizona Muse, Liu Wen, Chantal Stafford-Abbott and opener Emily Baker.

photo William Yan via Oscar PR Girl

S/S'12 Favorites: Rick Owens

It is rare that you can call a clothing designer original, but this is Rick Owens.

One look: Balmain

I'm no longer excited by Balmain, but I liked this look on Jasmine Tookes.

SS'12 Standout: Damir Doma

I remember attending a presentation for Damir Doma menswear at the Soho Grand Hotel nearly two years ago, a series of dark monastic pajamas adorning mannequins in a small space off of the Club Room.  Some Misshapes were there, of course.  I enjoyed the clothes, but it seemed like Damir Doma would be one of those small, cult labels adored by those who don't blink at a $600 t-shirt and wear their chic goth Rick Owens blankets in the heat of a New York City August.  But it's clear that Damir Doma is ready for the big time, and this collection is one of my favorites of the season.

Closer

Zuzanna, Rochas

SS'12 Favorites: Jil Sander

The front row

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen were the picture of sleek, chic perfection in the front row at J. Mendel's spring 2012 collection in New York.  This is too good!

photo Olsens Anonymous

Top model

Sally Singer's T Magazine has become one of the best and smartest fashion books in the game, and this spread and story of Joan Smalls from the September Women's Style issue, styled by David Vanderwal and shot by Boo George, is a great example why.

I adore Joan - she's the type of person about whom the word "fierce" doesn't sound so trite and annoying, but rather dead on.  She's gorgeous and strong, at the top of the industry, and polite and friendly to top it off.

On the cheap

There are few chicer accessories than a copy of the New York Times or a similarly worthwhile newspaper - I hate it when fashion people haven't a clue what's going on in the world.  Throw in the newly designed can of Diet Coke and you're good to go, for just $3.00 USD!

S/S'12 Favorites: Mary Katrantzou

I think Mary Katrantzou is one of the most interesting designers working today, and her spring collection was magical.  There is a whole 3-D world of fantasy within her garments.  Trompe l'oeil doesn't even begin!

S/S'12 Favorites: Derek Lam

Kinga 

Emily Baker

Daphne Groeneveld

Arizona Muse

Kate King

Fei Fei Sun

Anais Mali

Shu Pei Qin

Mirte Maas

Liu Wen

Bette Franke

Gertrud

Karmen Pedaru

Let's take a fabulous trip.  Somewhere with sunshine and a cool nighttime breeze, laidback but sophisticated, luxe accommodations... glamorous, very glamorous.  Dress accordingly.