Christian Siriano Fall 2012

When & where: Saturday, February 11 at 4 p.m., Eyebeam Atelier

Runway recap: After Thursday's article in the Times on how Siriano is trying to win over fashion critics (in spite of having a so far very successful business), I was expecting a toned-down affair. And I was right. One definitely felt Siriano's restraint (or perhaps that of his stylist, Danielle Nachmani), in that much of the collection consisted of trim, polished day looks and evening dresses that, by Siriano's standards, felt almost minimal. Which is not to say that the collection wasn't gorgeous. It was, and as in the past, the fabrics looked rich, with faux croc, faux pony, jacquard, and brocade. He was inspired by the 1930s film The Vampire Bat, and even with such a dramatic-Goth starting point, Siriano didn't let the theme run away with the collection, instead interpreting it in everything from recurring wing-like flounce overlays to "bat vein" patterns. I'm sure it will all sell well, but let's hope there are customers out there who will shell out for the signature showstopping gowns at the end—aside from being audience favorites, they're what made us all fall in love with Siriano in the first place.

Bonus points: An eclectic front row if there ever was one (and proof of Siriano's widespread appeal), it featured Gabourey Sidibe, Mena Suvari, The Vampire Diaries' Nina Dobrev, and Brad Goreski.

Where to buy: Visit ChristianSiriano.com for stockists.

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