Decorated with round tables replacing the front row, cupcakes, lolipops and huge balloons -  Betsey Johnson's party runway show is the only time you are allowed to smile during the fashion week.

This is one reaction you can't fake watching 66 years old Betsey doing her signature cartwheel show after show, season after season. 

After last season's prom dresses, this time Betsey showcased a collection influenced by pirates and their french maidens. Cotton skirts and dresses accessorized with ruffles reminded retro undergarments and sometimes sleepwear seen only in historic films.

Retro inspired fully covered swimsuits were some of my favorite pieces - here again taking elements from the undergarments and creating very flattering looks.

I will be curious to see how this statement collection will translate into the stores and more importantly into the wardrobe of the average woman (or more precisely - Betsey's girl).

~ Yuli Ziv

Photos courtesy of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week