Say it in a dress (a spring summer 2011 one that is!)

So, as New York fashion week nearly comes to a close (or climax!), and they make way for what our lovely capital has to offer, I feel it is my duty to report on what gowns have caught my fancy from the catwalks.

As you all probably know I LOVE a frock. There is something about a gorgeous woman in an equally gorgeous dress, preferably to the floor, that really pleases me. I think it's probably the romance of it, although it might be because I'm desperate to wear one myself... let's just stick to the romance maybe!

Anyway anyway anyway, here they are - the front runners!

I can't believe I haven't mentioned Jenny Packham yet. I should really dedicate a whole post to her but alas, this is it. She is one of Britain's most amazing exports this season (and hopefully this season only, I, for one, miss her!) as she takes her rather gorgeous gowns State side. The gentle sequins and beading to her synonymous floaty dresses just made practically the whole collection dream-like. Packham gave a nod back to the twenties and thirties with her exquisite detailing and draped fabrics. The colours seem to be immaterial to this collection, what you see first is the twinkling of the embellishment. In short, another perfect Packham potpourri.







'The Garden of Eden' was inspiration enough for Monique Lhuillier. The front of the collection was a mixture of gorgeous separates - high waisted red trousers, ruffle blouses, pretty strapless gowns decorated with painted flowers - but it was the back of Lhuillier spring summer that made my eyes pop. Evening wear is most definitely this lady's forte. If there's a frock to be worn on a red carpet, these are they. The nude bodice/red skirt gown was by far the best - the show piece. Romantically layered chiffon and organza graced the catwalk in one of the best shows for a good old BIG gown!

More to follow lovely readers...

Thank god for Jenny!

I've been craving to see a long, floaty, elegant, jaw-dropping gown during Fashion Week so it obviously comes as no surprise when I literally foamed at the mouth at the Jenny Packham show. The Central St. Martins graduate and British Bridal Dress Designer of the Year (2008) presented us with, as usual, some show-stopping numbers.

For autumn winter, Packham gave us sequins. Big, fat, shiny sequins. As well as the bling, there was huge bow obi belts which were uber-delicious, gorgeous owl print (see the statement dress of the collection below), over size yummy rectangular clutches and bat wing shapes.

Colour was splashed across the shiny black catwalk like an abstract painting, yet still hanging on to the class and femininity that Packham has always maintained and delivered. Red, orange, pink, yellow and the monochrome of the owl designs - autumn never looked better!

Look out for the 70s turquoise, draped low back sequined frock - a stand out for me.

Love you Ms. Packham.