A subsequent scoot over to the Custo Barcelona runway show allowed for my gainful education as to the spring stylings of designers Custo and David Dalma. A collection, at once, psychedelic and organic, and, in the same moment, geometric and structured, spring 2008 was sartorially satisfactory. Standouts included a luscious laminated trench and a full-length dress flocked with golden fringe and embellished with sequin-studded detail on the neckline.

Thursday brought about several simultaneously stylish happenings for which coordination and concentration was requisite (you will recall the mention of 4-inch heels). My evening begin downtown at FIG, with a little soiree held in honor of L.A. designer Meghan Noland. The event, showcasing Meghan’s signature collection, Meghan Fabulous, happened to coincide with FIG’s Fall Market. Modern Luxury Editor Stacy Girard also attended as the designated host of a Q&A session with Meghan amongst the throngs of her admirers. Unfortunately, Mother Nature issued a veto with wild winds that kicked up on the outside lawn…we’re talking gusts with a capital G.

The evening of Thursday, March 13th had everyone seeing spots…in shades of signature “Bartlett blue”, that is…Those of us eager to sneak a peek at L.Bartlett’s new digs freely and fashionably viewed and ooed, taking stock of owner Laura Bush’s stylish selection in a lovely little soiree celebrating the new space housing them. Bush briefly considered relocating to the Shops at Legacy before this prime spot opened up…lucky Laura. Now, Bush’s biz will take place in the nucleus of West Village, where the meandering of bright young things often occurs.

Tuesday, March 18th came with torrential downpours and gusty winds that likely left most in a mood…we, on the other hand, had the urge to merge. Shaking off the raindrops and smoothing down our dampened locks, we gathered gleefully at a private dinner hosted by MERGE owner Alana Turner, myself, along with Joanne Yurich, Victoria Snee, F!D Luxe editor Tracy Hayes, and Alana’s right-hand woman and MERGE assistant manager, Melissa. Champagne sipping brought forth chitchat about Alana’s upcoming wedding in Mexico and subsequent honeymoon excursion…to India! In fact, cocktail conversation was all about travel, from rampant curiosity over Alana’s nuptials to Joanne’s fascinating anecdotes of her recent trip to China. Perusing the racks of Alana’s latest buys allowed us to become fully informed as to the ‘it’ items of the season in the world of MERGE, such as leather goods from Loeffler Randall and sweet separates from Mike and Chris. The rain had apparently turned us ravenous and we noshed without restraint on a delightful dinner catered by Party Maker that served to provide a warm glow to the dreary evening.