The starting point for Carlos Miele's Spring 2012 collection entitled Immersive Landscape was a virtual paradise, an imaginary world where the lines between what is artificial and what is natural are blurred. These abstract concepts were translated into ethereal caftans, sultry cocktail dresses and dramatic evening gowns marked by fluid lines, sleek sculptural forms and vibrant digital prints (one featured goldfish). Carlos Miele always embraces color, and this season the Brazilian designer went for bright orange, teal and aqua. My favorite looks were on the subtler side, like a black and white swirl print top paired with a flowy white skirt, or a gleaming white one-shoulder Grecian gown with a shiny gold belt. It was a surreal show and a surreal moment when I realized that this was my third Carlos Miele show - does that mean I'm not a Fashion Week rookie anymore...?

I'll make an exception to cover menswear during Fashion Week when it involves Nautica and The Empire Hotel Rooftop lounge. There, I said it. For their Spring 2012 collection, Nautica was inspired by a California road trip, from Malibu to Monterey. There were sporty vintage-prep looks like coral denim paired with chambray shirts and boatshoes; surfer inspired looks marked by bright colorblocking; and classic navy and white ensembles that epitomize Nautica's homage to the America Coast - and the strapping young men who live by it (or just want to look it).