Favorite Pre-Fall 2014 Collections (Part 2)

Just when you think Pre-Fall is over, the interim season unleashes a slew of show-stopping collections. You already checked out some of the hottest picks, but there's a whole new group that's waiting for a well deserved swoon fest (in no particular order, of course). Shall we swoon, ladies and gent? Oh, we shall.

1. Jonathan Simkhai

This collection is person for the style savant who wants to show off her body in a classy manner.  Forget jewel tones and neons, Simkhai is bringing sexy in our two favorite neutral shades: black and white. My favorite take home tips for looking hot? Sheer panels, sporty menswear, subtle cutouts, and tasteful crop tops.   If you really can't stand a completely black and white collection, the finale's dashes of ice blue is very sultry. Style.com's Lauren Sherman said it best: "Really, a Kanye West-styled Kim Kardashian would look great
in this stuff."(Photo)

2. Ralph Lauren

Two words: ultra luxe. From slinky evening gowns to draped skirts galore, to lounge-worthy sweaters, this collection is nothing short of divine!  But that's not all these threads did for the fashion community.  In one traditional fashion show, which is impressive for this season, the Americana style legend teaches us how to rock a monochromatic look. As this collection shows, the key is in mixing and matching different fabrics. Silk with cashmere and a dash of fur? Yes please! (Photo)

3. Derek Lam

As the resident king of cool,  Derek Lam is certainly on his way to becoming a bonafide sportswear phenomenon. Not only does this collection welcome a variety of color combinations and texture mixes,  Lam also brings forth a wearable collection with a multitude of pieces: dresses, coats, culottes, and even a playsuit. In true Lam fashion, every separate and look is undeniably relevant and chic. Plus, it's the perfect way to prepare for autumn. (Photo)

4. Elizabeth and James

Whether it's The Row or Elizabeth and James, design duo Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen always wow with slender silhouettes, pops of interesting prints, and a "boy meets girl" aesthetic. This collection has "cool fashionista" written all over it.  Tough the clash of plaid and floral is very Givenchy RTW AW 2013,, you have to admit that it spices up an otherwise solid ensemble.  The funky prints mixed with the clean shapes makes this collection something minimalist will consider a worthwhile wildcard while ethereal goddesses will use these pieces to tame down their wardrobes.(Photo)

5. Alexander Lewis

Breaking news: navy is the hottest neutral out there. Don't believe me? Take a look at Alexander Lewis''s Pre-Fall collection. From monochromatic looks to a strong dose of the hue in plaid prints, navy ran rampant. Though a mere shade isn't enough of a reason to love a collection, the boyish pieces are incredible. Languid bomber jackets? Yes. Printed trousers? Of course. Relaxed shirt dresses? Thank our lucky sartorial stars. But don't write this off as a standard menswear inspired collection: the designer claims he was inspired by a time when sexiness was sought after, but subdued. Between the high slits and sultry cross necklines, it's a well executed idea! 

6.Cédric Charlier

As this collection proves, reliving the past is not always a bad thing. While the metallic- neutral mélange is very Proenza Schouler RTW SS 2014 and the graphic prints scream Céline RTW SS 2014, Cédric Charlier gives these major spring trends a seasonal twist. Jackets reign superior and mixed in are some nice noir threads. Redundant? Sure; however, there are some fads that are so cool, you can't get over them in a mere season. Metallics and graphics? Hopefully, they'll stay around for a few more months. Gatsby was right: you can repeat the past.

So, spill it: which collections are you loving? I'm dying to know! 

xx