It’s official, for Spring 2011 white is the new black. Natural tones are the way to go year and the sensible and classy looks we saw strutting the runways at Mercedes-Benz Fashion week showcased just how red hot head-to-toe white can be.

The photos above are of nine different white looks from designers’ SS11 presentations and shows at Lincoln Center in Manhattan for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. This past week has flown by and the shows are getting great reviews. Clearly white is in for both men (at Lacoste) and women (at nearly every other show) next year as the crisp, clean shade is seen repeatedly on the catwalk.

We are intrigued by the range in proportion, drape and silhouette throughout the collections and the diversity in fabric and detail make for a really classically-dressed season.

Just some of the designers offering head-to-toe white ensembles in their Spring/Summer 2011 collections include Victoria Beckham, BCBG Max Azria, Doo-Ri, Christian Siriano, Frank Tell, Jen Kao, Calvin Klein, Julian Louie, Nicole Miller, Mandy Coon, Peter Som, Rag & Bone, Band of Outsiders, Jill Stuart, Lacoste, Rebecca Minkoff, Ports 1961, Prabal Gurung and Derek Lam.

The line was very demure, focusing on shades of red, cream and metallics. The silhouettes stood out with flowing maxi dresses, scalloped chartreuse, sleek white pants and belted mini dresses all- paired with chunky accessories.

The shoes were a spectacle all their own with varying geometric shapes, cutouts, straps and ties. In the past we have seen how adventurous Siriano can be with designing high heels, and this year was no different. The spiky, rounded and contorted designs are unique, yet feminine and classy. {Le Petite Fashionista}

There was some mixed reaction as the show’s attendees carefully examined each look.

Fashionista commented, “The problem with Siriano’s SS11 collection is that it’s caught in limbo between wearable and editorial looks. While the sportswear felt like a tribute to tried and true vacation-wear (slim white pants, leather short trenches, voluminous maxi-dresses, lone ruffles, and exotic prints) his sumptuous evening wear is a unique offering…At this point in his career, Siriano needs to choose a team and stick with it—I say drama all the way.” {Racked}

We agree that a lot of what we saw on the runway was theatrical and extravagant and not necessarily  practical for wear. The shoes in particular, although designed for Payless, will probably be heavily toned down by the time we see them hit store shelves. Either way, we will be the first in line to snag his sleek styles at a steal of a price.

Before he digs into the serious business at hand, we have to  acknowledge the completely camp (and visually amazing) Halloween transformation into a mermaid who could give Ariel a serious swim for her money.

Now, we’re ready to watch him swim with the fashion sharks (our last pun, promise).

Read more {Papier Blog}

Read more {the Cut}