Ilori

The proliferation of full-on resort season runway shows makes me a little uneasy, mostly because it feels like most brands don't need to put on such an elaborate production to sell clothes. (Which by the way, is the main reason for pre-fall and resort collections. They make up a majority of most labels' sales.) Yet there are always a few who lend themselves so well to Resort that it makes sense to do it up. Jason Wu is one of those designers. To me, Wu is this generation's Oscar de la Renta, which means that no matter what season he's in, the pieces are both wearable and in one way or another, extravagant. So each collection deserves similar treatment.

Last night we scampered around Manhattan, desperate for some good people watching and some great fashion. Fortunately, we were graced with both. First, it was cocktails at Prada on Madison Ave., where those involved with charity New Yorkers for Children gathered to take in gorgeous re-issued vintage Prada dresses--we were smitten with a long, lingerie-inspired number--and fall 2010 runway looks re-imagined in rich burgundy, slate and black duchess satin. (The latter will be loaned by Prada to several women attending the gala.) While we could have stayed at Prada all night--sipping cocktails mixed by The Carlyle Hotel's famed bartender--Jason Wu was calling our names.