The designer: Vivienne Tam Front row: Carmen Electra, Angela Simmons, Kelly Bensimon, Russell Simmons, and Fern Mallis. The catwalk collection: Inspired by “cultural dialogue, change, and awakenings,” Tam’s designs were dominated by black, red, and white ensembles, from one-shoulder gowns sprinkled with Chinese characters to military-influenced outfits. Claim to fashion fame: Vivienne Tam’s Chinese heritage inspired the “east meets west” style highly popular among the likes of Madonna, Julia Roberts, and Petra Nemcova.

The designer: Diane Von Furstenberg Front row: Katharine McPhee, Olivia Palermo, Diane Sawyer, Nicky Hilton, Rachel Zoe, Coco Rocha, Seth Myers, Chelsea Handler, Fran Lebowitz, Andre Balazs, and Graydon Carter. Hello VIPs. The catwalk collection: The Studio 54-style collection – long live glam rock – resurrected sexy halter dresses, chic pantsuits, and classic wrap dresses that were an ode to DVF’s signature style and the infamous disco era. Claim to fashion fame: DVF introduced wrap dresses to women in 1974.…

The designer: Custo Barcelona Front row: Spanish supermodel Almudena Fernández, Miss J. Alexander, Angela Simmons, Olivia Palermo, and Alyssa Campanella (Miss USA 2011). The catwalk collection: Appropriately titled “The Beauty and the Beast,” the eccentric, pattern-possessed collection included animated designs, tribal prints, funky patchwork, sequins, brocade, metallic studs, embroidery, and multicolored graphics. Claim to fashion fame: Julia Roberts and Natalie Portman have both worn Custo designs on-screen.

The designer: Tracy Reese Front row: Angela Bassett, Angela Simmons (Rev Run’s daughter and Russell’s niece), and Shenae Grimes of 90210. The catwalk collection: Sassy safari-inspired animal prints, from elegant cheetahs to zebras, paired with flirty florals in daring hues. Claim to fashion fame: Reese designed the shimmery pink-and-silver-blue dress that Michelle Obama wore to the Democratic National Convention. (New York Fashion Week photos by Jenny Karakaya) Related Articles Rachel Zoe Nanette Lepore