Last time I attended Fashion Week to see the Fall 2010 collections I was turned away at the doors of Tracy Reese (I had an invite but the venue reached capacity before all guests could be allowed inside), so this time around, I was not going to miss it! And thankfully, I got in and took my place at the back in the standing area. Didn't have the best view but I was grateful to be there, just the same. I love Tracy Reese because her clothes are whimsical, youthful, colorful and wearable, and if you find her stuff on sale or sites like Gilt.com, the prices are not entirely out of reach.

The show notes read: "Clean, classic, mellow, groovy! For Spring 2011, Tracy Reese is inspired by the dream of glamorous travel and immersing one's self in a new and exotic location." Reese referenced the '70s with updated retro looks from tie neck blouses, poncho and Bermuda shorts, to high-waist trousers, earthy hues, mixed prints, and round-frame glasses every cool girl is going to want to wear. I loved most of the dresses but favorite looks included an army blue henley and cuffed shorts with layered chain necklaces and a floral shirtdress. Shoes were from Highline United for Tracy Reese, manicures by Sally Hansen and hair by Jeanie Syfu for TRESemme.

Click through to see more pics from the show.

Boots with a utilitarian or military-feel are huge for fall, and Joie's "Refugee" Lace-Up Military Boots are a perfect example. Can you spot them below? They'll set you back $535 while the look-a-like pair will cost you a mere $200 (I'm joking, they're both crazy expensive but if they're the only shoes you buy all season, you'll still have money left over for rent.) Take a guess, the click either image to find out which is which.

Rebecca Minkoff's Spring 2011 collection presentation drew an impressive crowd at Lincoln Center during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. It seemed like everyone in attendance was carrying a Minkoff bag, which just speaks to her popularity and ability to deliver luxe-looking accessories at prices that are within reach. The clothes were chic, versatile and wearable, from red cocktail dresses to fitted leather jackets, but what really caught my eye were the handbags and the shoes, like the perfect contrast-trim satchel and some killer tan heels with black banded straps. I'll take one of each, please!

Click through for more photos and show notes.

On September 13, I attended the Spring Summer 2011 runway show by designer Carlos Miele, a Brazilian native who I first learned about the last time I attended Fashion Week to see the Fall 2010 collections. Once again the designer delivered bright colors and flattering silhouettes that were both feminine and strong. The show notes said Miele was inspired by butterflies and Pink Floyd, a not entirely unlikely pairing when you think about it, although I could have done without the literal butterfly prints (though I do adore butterflies!). My favorite looks included a white sleeveless top with oversize ruffles paired with tomato red cargos and a navy cropped jacket paired with shorts and lime green accents. Fun, upbeat and a great way to start the week.

On September 11, I attended the Jill Stuart Spring Summer 2011 runway show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center. Here's a quick video I took of the show's finale as models take one last pass down the runway, giving you a taste of the energy, music and excitement that's hard to convey in still photos. It was a gorgeous show inspired by colors of the sunset and reflective of the quintessential Jill Stuart girl, according to the designer herself post-show. Lots of black, white, tans, pinks, golden yellows on tailored separates, dresses and more. I'll post more details and photos later, so stay tuned!