Fashion Week 2002

Fashionistas from all over the world converged on New York the week of Sept. 16, 2002, to catch a glimpse of the spring collections for next year.
(Commentary by CBSNews.com contributor Neneh Diallo)

From the Vera Wang collection, Kamila, left, wears a stone charmuese bias gown with gold sequin chiffon floral insets, while Candela models a stone chiffon gown.

From Oprah Winfrey turning heads at the Vera Wang show to Britney Spears causing a stir at House of Field, it was an eclectic collection of uptown meets downtown. Oprah sat with Vogue editor Anna Wintour, left.

Stella McCartney's store opening was crawling with people all night long. The store windows featured mannequins suspended above a pool of water and each fitting room features walls that are custom-designed with drawings.

The red carpet was also on fire with fashion folk and celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, left, and Liv Tyler, who are friends and avid McCartney supporters.

And New York welcomed Britain's new exports, Matthew Williamson and Luella Bartley. Here, Naomi Campbell poses in a sheer dress with a palm tree and sun motif.

But let's not count out the old school designers who gave haute couture its name such as Oscar de la Renta, whose designs are elegant and refined. As one attendant noted, "Oscar de La Renta represents couture and the old school of clothes, not just a trend."

Stylish would be the term to describe Ralph Lauren's sleek, sexy, feminine collection. Taking a look front row were Elizabeth Hurley, Vanity Fair's Graydon Carter,Vera Wang, and Patricia Field. Here, Christelle models a blue multi silk jacquard bustier and indigo cream silk patchwork.

Sexy vibrant colors and edgy designs, like this high-neck lace-up halter top with fringed pants, are hallmarks of the collection presented by David Dalrymple for House of Field. It drew the attention of such celebrities as Britney Spears, Finola Hughes, and Jackie Collins.

Dalrymple, on the runway with hip-hop artist Eve, caused a stir with his production design and choice of music. In addition to Eve, he had R&B artist Mya on the runway, and his collection had the crowd buzzing.

Russell Simmons Phat Farm line marked its 10-year anniversary with a fierce collection of sweatsuits, a Simmons trademark.

The Phat Farm showing was followed by the Baby Phat collection designed by Russell's wife, Kimora Lee Simmons. Here, a silver and olive cropped halter top is worn over cut-off jean shorts.

Designer Kimora Lee Simmons is greeted by her husband Russell Simmons as he bends to their daughter Ming Lee Simmons at the conclusion of the Baby Phat show.