New York Fashion Week, Francis by Christian Francis Roth, Spring 2009

'90's "it boy" Christian Francis Roth returned to the runways with a low-key, offsite show on the final day of Spring 2009 Fashion Week. Presented in the gym of a boy's academy on Mulberry Street (just steps from his studio) Francis by Christian Francis Roth made its debut for audience that included key buyers from Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and more.

Inspired by "equal parts Gossip Girl, The Warriors and A Clockwork Orange," the show was divided into six clear groups, each set in a different neighborhood in New York - including the tartan-heavy After School Specials and sporty, colorblocked Lace-Ups. The groups entered the gym together with each girl taking a turn on the runway. For the show's finale, each clique walked the runway as a group, presenting a strong statement.

Note: I shot some great video of this show but my Flip Video is malfunctioning. Stay tuned for the footage later this weekend.

The Do's:

• Impeccable construction and details (difficult to see in runway shots)
• A sense of fun & whimsy
• Bold color & graffiti prints will undoubtedly sell well (see below)
• Hair by Cutler and makeup by Jemma Kidd Make Up School (former model Kidd sat front row) helped to clearly define each look.

The Don't's:

• Much of the collection was quite young, though the separates can work for any age.

The Bon Mot
CFR's notable sense of humor is fully intact and his foray into women's contemporary may just add some edge and whimsy to the market.