Erin Fetherston Spring 2009

Much has been written about the beauty of the Paris skies, and for Erin Fetherston they were a constant source of daydreams…until her relocation to New York this year. An "autobiographical" designer by her own admission, she used this transition—and, specifically, a comparison between the light of each city—as the basis for her Spring collection.

The theme played out delicately at first in a procession of relaxed, seventies-inspired sportswear (old photos of Lauren Hutton and Estée Lauder models had been part of the inspirational collage, too). Sequined flutter-sleeve blouses and linen trenchcoats shot through with metallic thread shimmered like sunlight across the Seine. Asymmetrical chiffon tops and jacquard bell-bottoms suggested she was pushing herself beyond the princess frocks she made her name with. But at last the dresses did emerge—unfortunately, as an all-too-literal look toward the heavens.

Siri Tollerød appeared to be essentially wearing a cloud, inner tube-like, around her waist; and a trio of tiered ball gowns with voluminous ruffles and an ombré sunset print could be difficult sells for even the most die-hard Fetherston-frock fans. Still, we'd wager that as they left the venue, Peaches Geldof and Emma Roberts were replaying the earlier part of the show in their minds and thinking about which pieces they'd most like to take home. Personalized Bridal Party Tees