From Sexy Sweats to Cool Suede, our Latest and Greatest Picks From the Week of NYC Fashion

Truth be told, it's sometimes hard to pinpoint the defining moments of Fashion Week. There are shows we love, those we don't, and others that stay on the brain long after the reviews have been posted. But this season, one thing that resonated was literally simple: Versatility. While some designers pushed the envelope (Alex Wang, Preen, Rodarte) and others stayed the course (Band of Outsiders, Phillip Lim) the common thread was crafting garments with real transitional power, pieces that weren't tied to spring or summer but that offered freshness in the form of longevity. But in light of practicality, there were a handful of themes that kept it all interesting. And really, after 80 or so shows, what more could we want?

We said it before and we'll say it again: Tailored sweats are fabulous, not just for their comfort but because cut right, they have a tailored drape that is all understated sexy...just look at how Rag & Bone and Phillip Lim turned them out.

We know, it's sort of tribal, sort of sari, but really all the body-conscious draping and ruching makes us think this is really the more evolved body-con dress. However you slice it, the workmanship is all that.

All images from Style.com.
3. Aqua Blue

After a few seasons of cobalt, this deep-blue aqua makes us wish we were on Clooney's yacht cruising the Mediterranean. Wearing Thakoon, of course.

Perhaps the epitome of bold contrasts, the reappearance of black with beige and neutrals made us sit up and take note: This is a strong look for a strong lady. We like.

Richer than your typical orange, this juicy shade really popped among all the grays and blacks or more predictable pastels.

We love the fact that fashion is really loosening up, undoing that top button and even wearing white after Labor Day. The fact that some designers used leather and suede, particularly with little jackets, made us excited that these weren't pieces made just for one season.

The whole less is more thing really resonates with the season's choice picks of long, free-flowing gowns in a subdued palette of beige, gray, and delicate patterns. Uncomplicated, the pure elegance is all you see.

Above, from left: Brian Reyes, Marc Jacobs; Yigal Azrouël; Jen Kao.

8. The Long Lean Short

Maybe they're clam diggers, maybe they're a modified bike short...However you package all the long lean shorts we spotted, one thing is certain: They're sporty-chic and a great switch from skirts.

Just the texture of mesh makes it not only a great layering tool, but also a practical option for warmer weather. We loved how RVCA and Rag & Bone used it as a way to bring a little depth and edginess to an otherwise simple look.

Even if you have legs like Giselle, all those minis from last season are getting so tired. That's why we are totally into this fresh batch of lingerie-inspired tap pants. You'll still have to do some lunges but given what Brian Reyes and Vena Cava have given us to work with, it'll be worth it.

All images from Style.com.