Jean-ius

Helmut Lang has long been one of my favorite brands. Yet I always seem to veer towards the more exclusive pieces. For example, a $15,000+ anaconda jacket... hey, it's an investment piece. But now that Michael and Nicole Colovos are launching a jean-based diffusion line, Helmut Lang's edgy simplicity will be accessible to even more clients. I was hoping that it would be even half as good as the Acne/Lanvin collaboration. And as you can see from the recent Helmut Lang presentation, prayers are about to be answered.

Photos from Style.com

True Black

Michael Kors SS10

Phi SS10

However, plenty of designers eschewed rainbows and sparkles for a harder look reminiscent of Fall09. This is excellent for those of us (me) who have hearts that are three sizes too small. Of course, the dark and brooding look received its seasonal update as well, in the form of sexy cut-outs in new and unexpected places.

Photos from Style.com

All the World Needs Now

Narciso Rodriguez SS10

3.1 Phillip Lim SS10

Marc Jacobs SS10

If you're already sick of Fall's studded boots and leather, then the 2010 shows have welcome news for you— romanticism and everything sickly sweet is in. My favorite looks from the New York collections dove into this theme with frothy abandon, yet were set apart by a little spunk. Think the flowing grey silk gown Narciso Rodriguez sent down the runway. It's dramatic and soft, yet ever so slightly boyish in its shapelessness and unexpected color. Likewise, Phillip Lim balanced a pale pink shift with a fire engine red trench, and Marc Jacobs' finale of a ruffled gown avoided banality thanks to its see-through fabric. Being good never felt so fun.

Photos from Style.com

Clean Slate

When it comes to make-up I'm incredibly indecisive, despite my background in fashion. I hop around from brand to brand, product to product, color to color. Yet one item I've been using for years and have always been satisfied with is Lancome's Bi-Facial make-up remover. It works on everything— even waterproof mascara and lip stain— without leaving behind that gross, greasy feeling. I was talking to a Lancome rep the other day who said that some clients claim it's too strong. But take it from someone with the most sensitive skin around... Seriously, when I was little, classmates thought it was fun to "draw" on me, i.e. make welts shaped like letters, flowers, small animals and other kiddie paraphernalia. Yeah, I know. But I digress. If the old Bi-Facial leaves me unharmed, my bet is you too shall remain unscathed. Not to mention free of raccoon eyes for all time.

Image from Lancome

Let Me Count the Ways...

Cream Check Lace Woven Scarf, Burberry

Crocodile Scarf, YSL

Blue Hera Silk Scarf, Liberty of London

I love the way women wear their scarves. It says so much about a person or their mood- doubled-folded, knotted around the neck, thrown carelessly about the shoulders, tied onto a Birkin, and so on. Liberty, my favorite London department store, has one of the most impressive stocks I've ever seen. And as Liberty has always been praised for their prints- everyone from Cacheral to Topshop has used their archive- it only makes sense that their collection would be the best around. When I visited a couple months ago, I had a chance to see their renovated scarf room. Yes, a scarf room. Hold me now. They carry everyone from little known British designers to Givenchy to twillies made from their famous fabrics. Ah, indecision!

Images from Liberty.co.uk

Shop for Good

Top Marks

Looking at a Christopher Kane collection feels very much a sexual act for me. I practically crave a cigarette afterwards- and I don't even smoke. His newest work for Topshop might not reach the Big O level of his own line, but it certainly provides quick satisfaction. But who would expect more for $60-310? I particularly like that he included the signature animal graphic dress. Because let's be honest, even a clothes horse like me doesn't want to shell out $1,000 for an oversized t-shirt with a gator on it. We have those in FL, after all. Other highlights are his mirrored leggings, sweet and tough cardigan and hardware-laden bags. And don't forget the see-through mirrored dress. That one makes me want to pull a GaGa.

Photos from TheCut.com