By TJ Kennedy

The Diesel Black Gold show was set in an industrial warehouse space where the utilitarian, androgynous style of the collection mirrored it’s rugged environment. The denim experts branched out into a new direction with rich colors and metallic material that proved to be a unique interpretation of urban wear with “a collection that proposes light and reason.” Menswear inspired looks with sparkly details and strappy wedges created the perfect balance between femininity and masculinity.

Standout trend: Deep emerald green metallic moto jacket; paired perfectly with a striped button up and dress shorts.

How to get the look: To achieve the androgynous “I could care less look” don’t bother blowdrying your hair. Instead, towel dry it and apply mouse by scrunching with your fingers; remember how to scrunch? Especially apply mouse to the roots where you want to create a little bit of volume and shape. Then, carelessly tie back into a ponytail or loose bun. The trick to this look is applying just the right amount of makeup to look doll faced and fresh, but not overdone. Bronzed cheeks with highlighted cheekbones, with all over eyeliner and light shadow does the trick. A brown based eye palette works best to shade the shape of your eye while mascara and nude lipstick finish off the look.

Who makes it work: The city chic with an “I just rolled out of bed and still look cooler than you” attitude…and yeah, this is your boyfriend’s shirt.

By ManhattanMataHari 

Lela Rose’s vision of this season’s trends were more ethereal and feminine. We noted exaggerated eyelets and cutout details, embroidery, shimmering flowy fabrics and an overall flirty but classy vibe. Her A-list audience attendees like Mandy Moore, Susan Sarandon and Mariska Hargitay testify to the wearability and classic lines that define her collections. Her unique twist for summer 2012 was incorporating a sherbet palette, especially in some unconventional color blocking and mosaic and floral prints.

Standout trend: Unique fabrics, bold details and embroidery gave her classic signature sheath style dresses new life when paired with flatteringly structured shoulder sleeves.

How to get the look: Effortlessly flowing hair got a bedhead boost with a bit of volumizer and tousling. Make a side part, and take the first inch of hair framing your face, then proceed to twist across and downs towards your ear. Incorporate the other sections of hair like a French braid –but twisting only- until you can secure it behind your ear with bobby pins. Don’t forget to complete your girly look with a pretty pink gloss for your pout.

Who makes it work: Uptown ladies who want a fresh take on classic silhouettes that are feminine and figure flattering.

By ManhattanMataHari 

 Thus far into fashion week we have seen two obvious trends emerge: bright and bold versus more soft and feminine looks. This dichotomy was highlighted by Russian designer Katya Leonovich’s presentation. Avant-garde designs ruled and were complimented by spiky wind-blown hairdos. Bold lines and colorful draped prints with angular hemlines were some of her more wearable pieces. Fresh looks incorporating cutouts, pleated folds and even fringe will keep this designer on our watch list.

Standout trend: Colorful draped chiffon prints with cutouts and unique strap detailing provides a break from the ordinary maxi style dresses.

How to get the look: While we don’t suggest trying the spiky hairstyles for fear of putting out an eye, we loved her neutral eyes paired with just-bitten looking matte lips. First, put some concealer on your eyelids, followed by a highlighting crème with a bit of shimmer. Lightly line your upper lids close to the lash line with an ultrafine black or dark brown liner. Complete the look with one light coat of mascara and a mauve or berry lip stain. Not ready to go out and purchase a lip stain? Try the trend first by taking your favorite lip stick, applying a coat and then blotting it with a tissue to leave behind a hint of matte color.

Who makes it work: Downtown-chic divas who are ready to ditch the prerequisite black for some much needed pops of color.