One of the shows I was most looking forward to seeing this season was Christian Siriano, whose Fall 2011 show I attended on February 10, 2001, at Lincoln Center during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. And the Project Runway winner did not disappoint with his collection that was at once dark, moody, elegant and fierce (had to say it) all at once. Post-show the designer tweeted some insights into his inspiration: "A dark collection, some beautiful colors mixed in. Jackets, trousers, beautiful dresses and fantasy gowns were my look this time."

The palette was mostly black but anything but boring on account of the incredible detail, impeccable fit, fabulous fabrics and amazing textures used in each look, from tailored modern takes on the suit to jaw dropping ball gowns. The sky high heels were from Christian Siriano's collaboration with Payless, another reason we love the budget-minded designer, although they proved perilous for one model who tripped and fell on the runway (another narrowly missed wiping out, too).

Celebrity fans of Siriano in attendance included actresses Gabrielle Union and Mena Suvari, who were both apparently outfitted in Siriano for Payless shoes according to yet more tweets from @PaylessInsider. After the show, I went backstage where Siriano was happily and humbly giving interviews and taking photos with fans. Check out The Budget Babe Facebook page for more behind the scenes photos!