The fantastic tweed daytime clothes were there, all right. But the excitement level rose 100% when the gold embroidered shearlings and evening gowns hit the runway. Add vivid red sequins to suits, and luscious Klimt-inspired prints to gowns and you have clothes ready for any special occasion. What recession?

Off beat and a little quirky – in a good way! Peter Som is offering some fantastic fall ideas for his many fans. Plaid bathrobe coats cinched with a big plaid bow, dip-dyed furs with full masculine pants, easy knit jackets (a season must have!), tweed coats with the surprise of a spring-like print underneath, and glittery sequin tops and skirts worn together. Be brave, have fun!

Color, shine, and pleating techniques were masterfully handled by Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough. Dresses and jackets with pleated fronts, resembling paper airplane folds, in vibrant tones look modern and wearable. Shocking hosiery colors with mismatched suede pumps were fearless. Shots of black or copper sequins on pants and tops, or as accents on coats, got my attention. As will anyone wearing these beautifully tailored and exuberant clothes.

It was the softer, printed side at the Thakoon show that caught my eye. Gauze sweatshirts and long cardigans with printed skirts or dresses, abstract prints in easy-wear dresses, winter floral print coats all quilted up, and all-over sequin prints for the cocktail hour. Keep your eye open for those gauzy knits – what a great solution for unpredictable weather.