Fashion Week Continued... More Notes, Same Back Row

Feb 14: While most normal people were enjoying a lazy Saturday, I made the trek to the tents to see the Lacoste show. Ah, the sacrifices I make in the name of fashion. Fortunately, it was worth the trip down to the tents. Alright, we all know the economy's in the toilets but if you have even a few bucks or a credit card just sitting around, run don't walk to the Lacoste store when the Fall line hits.

These were gorgeous clothes in a soft creamy color palette which worked nicely for both men and women. Personally, I'd buy everything, but if I have to narrow down the field I plan on buying one of the voluminous double-faced duffel coats in off-white and one of the cute knit caps. For my best bud, I'd suggest he get (he can pay for his own stuff), the relaxed bone suede cardigan with tonal knit sleeves and trim. These are great items worth spending money on.

Feb 15: You got it! I also worked on Sunday! What helped was the free coffee courtesy of McDonalds' McCafe, the brand's major marketing initiative designed to promote its upscale coffee beverages. I'm here to tell you the cappuccinos, etc are FABULOUS! I couldn't make it through the week without my fix. Now, about the shows… I started off with a triple header: Nicholas K., Sergio Davila and Mara Hoffman – all one after the other in the tent. I wasn't crazy about the first collection which was in need of editing. A bit too grungy and too long with 42 pieces. Davila was up next and according to the designer his inspiration was taken from 19th century Spanish vice- royalty. Personally I didn't get the connection but some of his menswear jackets and knits were good-looking. As for his women's stuff, eh, not so terrific. Mara Hoffman's terrific collection was another story. While, skinny pants/leggings and hoods seem to be the biggest Fall trend so far, Hoffman delivered some gorgeous takes on these. Particularly noteworthy, her printed silk "willow" dress and leggings (sort of William Morris type pattern) in soft colors. I also loved the cocoa color moleskin trench coat with attached scarf, shown over a chiffon skirt.

Next up was one of the most gorgeous collections I'd seen, held in Reem Acra's Fifth Avenue showroom – a hike from the Bryant Park tents, but worth the effort. Models were stationed in three separate room settings so I could get a close look rather than craning my neck from the back row. Forget the fact I will never be able to afford anything here, not to mention no occasion to wear any of Reem's evening wear, I WANTED EVERYTHING! If I have to narrow it down, I'd say max-out the credit cards for the gold silk satin-back crepe bias gown with necklace, the Cyprus silk iridescent chiffon strapless number or her gold cloque dress. Any one of these would go nicely with a James Bond look-alike escort, or failing that, a wealthy sugar daddy.