It’s a rare day when fashion people actually look like they’re having fun–pure, unadulterated fun–at a runway show. But tonight at the Pierre Hotel, Alber Elbaz debuted his Lanvin x H&M collection. So things were different.

The Scene: A tiny ballroom at the Pierre Hotel on the Upper East Side, and a runway decorated with mounds of hydrangeas. (Inspired by Yves Saint Laurent, who liked to decorate his runways similarly.)

The Players: Friends Sofia Coppola and Anna Sui (who wore a mix of Lanvin and her own designs), Andie Macdowell (the only person who makes me wish my hair was curly again), Alex Wang, Sally Singer, Grace Coddington, Emma Roberts, Elettra Wiedemann, and a gaggle of bloggers, including Fashionista favorites Susie Bubble, Phil Oh, and Bryan Boy.

The Runway: Yes, the one-of-a-kind versions of the H&M collection were stunning. But really, it was all about the atmosphere. And Anna Dello Russo. The models pranced down the runway much like they used to before the ’90s, “making love with the camera,” if you will. But of course ADR stole the show, stomping down the catwalk with a grey poodle. We love Anna, but a poodle makes her irresistible.

The Shop: The salon was in the basement of the hotel, and we all waited for a good amount of time to enter the section where the clothes were, snacking on caviar-topped blinis and macaroons. Mr. Mickey was so patient–now I know why he’s gotten so far in this business. Once we were allowed access, I headed immediately to the shoe section to snag Leah a pair of the flower pumps. Luckily she has tiny feet–a size 6–so they were still available. Unfortunately, the long-sleeved black dress was sold out in my size. However, the one left would fit Cheryl, so I grabbed it. And finally, I found my piece–the fluffy, tobacco tulle ballet/New Look dress. It was the last thing I imagined myself picking up. But I tried it on, and it just felt right. Luckily, it was still perfect in the mirror at home.

The Best Part: Alber working the floor in the makeshift boutique. He’s just so lovely!

The Bottom Line: No, these pieces aren’t cheap–dresses range from $100–$250–but they’re worthy. The fabric quality and construction is better than any other high street collection I’ve seen. And I’ve seen pretty much all of them, from Karl to Luella and back. If you can bear to wait in line on Saturday morning, I suggest you do so.