CFDA fashion fund winner Billy Reid picks out the best gifts to give and get this holiday season. more Weber One-Touch Kettle Grill Levi's Workwear by

We're growing to love Billy Reid's presentations because they always tell a story--and this season, we couldn't help but remember the lauded designer's own inspiring narrative. Billy, who you may know as the most recent CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner, actually won CFDA’s Best New Menswear Designer award in 2001 as William Reid. His company, like many, hit hard times in the 9/11 aftermath, forcing him to close up shop and head back south to Alabama, where he started over. Now, 10 years later, Billy is one of fashion's shining stars. His presentation last night drew a crowd so huge I could barely see the models. To get to the front, I ended up having to nudge my way through the beer-clutching masses and the whole experience reminded me of being at concert. Turns out, I was. Behind the models, and an absolutely gorgeous set of hanging candles and tree branches, was a full band, rounding out the late night outdoor concert vibe of the Milk Studios space. "Our friends who are playing music tonight, really they became the inspiration," Billy told us.

We are so excited to kick off our spring 2012 pre-fashion week mad libs with Peter Som! Here, he reveals that he's a bit of a perfectionist. Also, e

Tracy Reese always puts out a pretty, happy, and best of all, wearable, collection. We can't wait to see what she does this season. xo, F