Otherworldly is the best way to describe Sarah Burton's Spring 2012 collection for Alexander McQueen. She referenced the Greek goddess Gaia, who in mythology gave birth to the gods of sea. The oceanic theme arose via undulating ruffles and pearl and coral-crusted embellishments that looked like barnacles. But first, the impeccable tailoring; first with a series of skirt suits, belted high and elegantly on the waist, done in powerful metallic gold and blush tones. Some of the jackets were cut to reveal delicate lace bralettes underneath. A string of babydoll dresses were floaty and full, designed to mimic the movements of a jellyfish, thanks to a plethora of ruffles. For the finale, a string of awe-inspiring gowns, one that spoke to the darkness of McQueen with black, spidery-cut leather. Models wore facemasks cut of lace, but some had beading made to look as if coral were spreading over their faces. It was transformative, and on a larger scale, a transformative moment for Sarah Burton, who has shown that she can lead the Alexander McQueen house forward in a lighter, but still breathtakingly complex direction.

• Trends: aquatic theme, pearls, feathers, embellishment, wide belts, asymmetric hems.
• Colors: gold, blush, coral, white, cream, black.
• Key Piece: babydoll dresses with lace and ruffles were surprisingly light, while the gowns were just incredible. For "everyday" we love the tailored jackets that opened the show.
• Accessories: platform gladiator sandals that climbed up models's legs.
• Who Would Wear It: The gowns are for the most fashion-forward red carpet goers. But we can see some of the skirt suits working on Sarah Jessica Parker.

Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli honed in on Valentino's signature dreamy elegance for Spring 2012 with a parade of delicately embroidered and embellished lace gowns and dresses. The aesthetic was perfectly in tune with the house — the kind of beautifully femme gowns we'll anxiously await to spot on the red carpet. Then, a few surprises: models in slick Spring leather — some with chiffon detailing — and relaxed, minimalist strapless dresses in blush pinks and daffodil yellows that spoke perfectly to Spring, and were a refreshing change from the signature black, blush, and Valentino red. It's a collection that walks the line between the girlish and the womanly, glamorous and accessible. Even the footwear walks that line with beautiful metallic, flat thong sandals, and flat espadrilles covered in — what else? — lace.

Bundling up doesn't have to be boring, particularly when the centerpiece of your look is a stellar statement sweater. Speak to Fall’s mod trend by picking up a cool colorblocked piece, make all-black magic with a splash of metallics, or call attention to your collar with a trompe d’oeil pull. No matter what you’re in the mood for, with these 10 statement sweaters, your Winter wardrobe will feel a little hotter — in the best way.

Just in time for Fall bundling, we came across Free People's October catalog, filled to the brim with cold weather dressing inspiration. The lookbook features Julia Stegner — check out those perfectly tousled waves and cute braids — wearing the brand's mix of bohemian-cool wares: lace dresses, knit ponchos, sequin pants, cozy cropped sweaters, and also an incredible convertible coat. As usual, Free People shows us some effortless, yet fresh, styling tips. Check out our top three takeaways below, and then click through to see the rest of the catalog.

• Downplay a minidress with dark tights and tough, lace-up booties.
• Wear sequin pants during the day; just make sure to temper the look with casual accompaniments, like a slouched sweater and loafers.
• Experiment with warm, brown hues. We love the idea of putting together a monochromatic outfit with hues of chocolate, burnt sienna, and dark rust.