Carolina Herrera’s spring collection was a twist of east-meets-west as she tells the tale of being inspired by Korean evening wear. When novice designers attempt to make similar fusions, the result is often costume-like and awkward. This was certainly not the case with Carolina’s masterful talents. The gowns and dresses were as exquisite as one would expect but the twist in details made each design all the more interesting.

Carolina Herrera Spring 2011

Who is the customer: Simple, stylish, elegance

Why buy: If you see enough evening dresses they sometimes start all looking similar. This collection has s distinct spin on classic elegance.

What to buy: Gowns with sweet cherry blossom embroidery

Bypass: One or two items were a bit more Eastern influenced than necessary.

Overall contribution to fashion: The fusion of designs was as wonderful as dinner at Indochine.

The light layers and silky satin and gauze-like fabrics, in shades of bone and gray, seemed to float down the runway of Nicole Miller’s spring 2011 collection. Of course, there were still some iconic black Nicole Miller pieces, despite diaphanous styles that made up the majority of the show. We just wish there was more of Nicole’s signature figure flattering ensembles.

Nicole Miller Spring 2011

Who is the customer: Stylish urban women

Why buy: Nicole Miller gives evening wear a unique twist of sophistication

What to buy: Backless dresses, which add a sex appeal to the minimalist.

Bypass: Dresses that could make Kate Moss look pear shaped.

Overall contribution to fashion: The neutral palate and sheer fabrics are perfect for the Spring. As usual, every piece was tailored beautifully.

Fiona Cibani has been designing for Ports 1961 for several years but her opportunity as lead designer took shape, this season, when her sister, Tia, took a step back. The collection was inspired by a trip to southern Tunisia to explore the Sahara and the pretty daywear and sophisticated cocktail pieces are as dreamy as a desert mirage.

Ports 1961 Spring 2011

Who is the customer: Women who appreciate the most beautiful part of simplicity.

Why buy: This collection was a series of timeless pieces that can be worn by women of any age.

What to buy: Purple or mineral printed dressed

Bypass: Dresses that are oversized and boxy.

Overall contribution to fashion: This collection proves that there is nothing boring when neutrals are used correctly. We still, however, love the bursts of color.

Nautica’s image has always been classic americana on the high seas. With Chris Cox, at the helm as creative director, Nautica is delivering the same message as it did 27 years ago, when the company first started.

Whitney Port, from MTV’s The City, debuted her fashion line, Whitney Eve this weekend. In the spirit of reality TV we thought it would be great to channel Joe Zee for our review. So, what would Joe Zee say? The collection was flirty, cute and very wearable but Whitney’s fashion point of view is still not very strong. Whitney, we loved the collection but we are still waiting to see your signature.

Whitney Eve Spring 2011

Who is the customer: Girly girls with a fashion flair.

Why buy: Ruffles always win your heart but the urban twist makes each look feel ultra cool but comfortable.

What to buy: We especially liked items featuring Whitney’s zig-zag print.

Bypass: Whitney Port is the MTV reality generation. So the styling might not be right for those who were part of the VH1 generation, when there was a VH1 generation.

Overall contribution to fashion: There is nothing not to love about this collection. It’s sweet and very wearable. To Naysayers: How many albums did Miley Cyrus sell as Hannah Montana?

The best thing about fashion in the 90s was well, nothing– or so we thought. Charlotte’s collection made us nostalgic for combat boots and Seattle bands. Although we opted out of the both the first time around the romantic floral dresses and hooded sweaters did make us a bit regretful. Here’s your second chance…

Charlotte Ronson Spring 2011

Who is the customer: The next wave of hipster and 30-somethings ready to bring back Teen Spirit.

What to buy: Romantic maxi-dresses with a floral print. Remember, the tee-shirt is optional.

Bypass: Combat boots, there is no way they can be flattering.

Contribution to fashion: There’s a reason why hippies live in the 60s. There is a special something from the 90s that is just beginning to be explored.

Tadashi is a Japanese designer who started his career as a celebrity costume designer. His namesake collection specializes in affordable special occasion dresses, which are carried in Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus & Nordstrom.

Tadashi Shoji Spring 2011

Who is the customer: Women seeking affordable special occasion dresses

Why buy: Tadashi makes an affordable collection that is absolutely gorgeous. The detail on the clothes are mind blowing. Expect to be the hit of the party if you wear any of his dresses. “Oohs” and “Aaahs” are free with purchase.

What to buy: Any dress with rosettes! The purple dress was definetly the most sought after by the crowd.

Overall contribution to fashion: Tadashi is able to produce affordable gowns that don’t turn to rags when the clock strikes midnight.