New York Fashion Week, Spring 2009: Max Azria

When I spoke to Max Azria, who was Taylor Momsen's date to Fashion Rocks, he said his Max Azria Spring collection was going to be "sexy." Let's see. Whisper light jerseys, deep v-necks and backs, asymmetrical ruching, and dramatic drapes. Sexy.With a very pretty front row, sprinkled with ladies like Kim Raver, Malin Ackerman, and Michelle Tractenberg, the pared-down silhouettes let sensuality shine through. The neutrals — normally a bore to me — were delicate and refined. We eased into a deeper seagreen, and eventually black, navy, and plum. These last hues were stunning; the silk and rayon jersey dresses had dramatic plunges and peek-a-boo cuts — not for the fashion faint. There was a delicious beige leather jacket, a surprisingly wearable crepe one-shoulder jumpsuit, and architectural vests, so it wasn't all sex and games. A surprising utilitarian nylon cross strap fanny pack was questionable, but it's excusable: the "sexy" dresses were seriously Fab.

To see more Max Azria, read more.