Style By Numbers

Zac Posen delivered yet another fashion flashback with a nod to old-world glamour with unexpected fabrics and textures that stop you dead in your tracks. His Fall 2009 collection is as bold as ever, impeccably constructed, gliding over the body with his signature sultry silhouette and uncanny knowledge of the female form.

Posen’s collections regularly chronicle the history of fashion. For Fall 09 his collection is a mash-up of eccentric, shinny Victorian necklines and billowy feminine dresses—with high necked collars, ruffles, exaggerated shoulders and pouf sleeves, drop-waist dresses, crystal encrusted tights and swaths of fabric. His pallet is intense—metallic and densely packed calico florals—a far cry from his Shaker inspired Spring 08 collection. Fall 09 takes the almost too-literal (but gorgeous) Pre-Fall 09 collection—where the 1940’s come alive in jewel toned silks and pin-tucks—to a much more theatrical conclusion.

The collection is a bit overwhelming as a whole, and the final look modelled by Paz de la Huerta looks a bit like Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

Zac and Paz, a touch too Disney

Yet, there are some amazing pieces that keep my faith in the 28-year-old’s capabilities as a fantastic designer with a promising career.

The structured gold-leaf belt featured throughout the collection

High neck Victorian details meets modern tailoring

Stunning dress with perfect accessories

Perhaps too much look

Posen's talent is in fitting gowns that capture the essence the womanly form. Look at the flow of fabric along the floor and incredible detailing, sigh.

We can’t ignore his Pre-Fall Collection, a dream for any vintage lover. The post-depression era inspired collection make the thought of an economic downturn bearable if it will produce equally lovely style.

Canary yellow, fringe, fine tailoring and knock-out jewels

Lauren Bacall couldn't have worn it better.

All together, a bit too litteral. But knitwear and full skirts are staple pieces to seek out in every vintage shop.

I want to wear this now!

Slightly one-shouldered, a modern take on a classic silhouette

StyleByNumbers Tip: Emulate Posen’s Pre-Fall 09 look as much as possible. The subtle sexiness of decades gone make any woman look sophisticated, elegant and timeless