Christian Siriano Spring 2012

With Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, and Elle's Joe Zee in the front row, former Project Runway winner Christian Siriano sent out his strongest collection to date, one that balanced his flair for dramatic dresses with easy, seriously wearable separates. Yes, there were frothy cocktail dresses and massive, tulle-laden gowns made for the red carpet. But the pleasant surprise came via sleek silk maxi skirts paired with tee-shirts, and cropped silk pants with cape blouses. Done in brilliant color pairings like acid green and peach, it was impactful but subtle. With a covetable line of shoes for retail giant Payless (see the latest in the slideshow) it's clear Siriano is no flash in the pan, and this latest collection suggests his best work is yet to come.

Trends: maxi skirts, tulle, long layering.

Colors: acid green, coral, red, taupe.

Key Look: The silk maxi skirts paired with tees.

Accessories: All the latest Payless collection is pretty awesome

Who Would Wear It: Classic girls with a love for drama — think Anne Hathaway or Emma Stone.