Pre Fall 09

Zac Posen's collection for Pre Fall 09 was 30s & 40s glamour, but not as done by Harlow, Leigh, De Havilland and Russell. No more as it was actually worn on the streets which was a nice view point for what has been a long running trend. Posen's spirited designs are fierce but feminine and have a great balance of shape hugging fit while still maintaining free movement.

When Karl Lagerfeld digs into an inspiration he strip mines it. He produces so many looks that are inspired by his iconic source that inevitably some of them are costumes. This works brilliantly for his grand fashion shows but not so much for actual clothes that you wear. Fear not though, for Chanel produces dozens of marvelous designs in every single show. The Chanel Pre-Fall 09 collection is all about the mix of Russia, Asia and Paris that influenced Coco herself. The garments are rich and luxurious with lots of ornate detail and gilding. In all it is beautiful work and will fit perfectly into a Chanel woman's wardrobe.

In truth dear Roberto I am too fond, Roberto Cavalli always hits a sweet spot for me. Mostly because the woman he designs for tends to be the type of woman I adore, she is at once casual and comfortable but loves embracing her sexy dangerous side. Cavalli's Pre-Fall 09 collection continues his love of bold prints though there is a distinct lessening of animal prints and more naturally inspired but undefined patterns. He also mixes in big floral again, mixing loose tops with tight pants to create a very, very sexy silhouette. He also continues a serpentine theme in his accessories which I have enjoyed very much.