Fashion Week roundup: Weekend at the shows

Inspired by Charlotte Gainsbourg, Adam Lippes' Spring 2011 collection was the epitome of simplicity yet it evoked an effortless sense of style that most women would — or should —  aspire to. Drawing on classic silhouettes: high-waisted trousers, blazers, tailored T-shirts, knit sweaters and floor grazing dresses, it seemed that nearly each and every piece that made its way down the runway could be considered a staple in a stylish, sophisticated women's wardrobe. Even when the designer veered away from classic cuts and muted solids  — such was the case with a red leather shift dress and a ruffled mini skirt — it still looked chic and relevant. (Perrie Samotin)

Three words to accurately describe Chakra's Spring 2011 collection: Red carpet worthy. Or, for us regular folks, a good excuse to splurge for a legit occasion. While the range of embellished, fits-like-a-glove mini dresses that kicked off Friday’s show were sexy, if a bit prom-y, it really was the succession of sweeping gowns that stole the show. Draped metallic gold and silver, pure white and punchy ombre fabrics cascaded down the model's bodies, creating an almost waterfall effect as they swept down the runway, many leaving behind dramatic trains or loose, open backs. Chakras blended garments in black, nude and white, with sunny turquoise, yellow, coral and purple, creating an effect that — because the collection was all dresses — still managed to feel cohesive. (Perrie Samotin)

We were captivated by Rebecca Taylor's highly wearable Spring 2011 collection yesterday, which was heavily influenced by the easygoing bohemian nature of the '70s. Models — sporting messy topknots — strutted out in ensembles that fused Taylor's signature silky feminine prints with edgier denim flares, colored trenches and (our favorite) micro-pleated maxi skirts. The delicate — often sheer — fabrics screamed spring and the subdued color palette was peppered with pleasant hits of bright orange, kelly green and cobalt blue. (Perrie Samotin) 

Sunday's drizzle didn’t mar the sophisticated summertime feel of Catherine Malandrino’s beautiful presentation at the Grand Promenade outside Avery Fisher Hall. Models lined the picturesque pool of water while guests took in the South of France-inspired pieces. Ornate details — fringe, crochet, beads, zippers — gave the gowns, rompers, short frocks and wide-leg trousers a rich, royal feel. (Julie Gordon)

Peter Som

Som took a page from every girl’s ideal vacation checklist for Spring 2011. His pieces screamed playtime with their bright hues, bold prints and variety of textures paired to form 32 bold, feminine looks. Even though Som mixed prints and paired the brightest colors together, each full look truly was ready-to-wear. The colorful postcard-print tank and subtle blue marble-print shorts, as well as a pigmented bikini top and shorts worn under a tweed-trimmed cardigan were highlights. (Julie Gordon)

Cheeky prints, beautiful cuts, attention to detail and not one blah look make Duckie Brown one of our favorites. Friday’s show began with a neutral palette — a gray bomber and trousers, a gray suit. Then, designers Daniel Silver and Steven Cox introduced some of the most fun, but seriously stylish menswear pieces we’ve seen this season — a zebra-print shirt, a quirky bug-print anorak, a bright pair of camouflage pants and a sheer shirt. (Julie Gordon) 

Reality star Whitney Port presented her candy- coated Spring 2011 collection on Jane Street in the West Village Saturday, in a loft space overflowing with 20 something’s who sported whimsical hats and gray nail polish while sipping vodka-infused cocktails and nibbling on gum drops. The “City” girl fused California’s laid back energy with the edge of New York City in her 20 piece collection that she described as “Feminine, chic, street wear.” (Christy Smith-Sloman)