To be perfectly honest with y’all, I wasn’t all that impressed with this coming season’s collections. In previous years, I’ve always been enamored by the creations I’ve seen sauntering down the runway. In a time where androgyny and unisex style is ubiquitous, I have a fondness for the designers that have managed maintain a feminine perspective. I don’t know about you, but wearing shapeless clothes doesn’t interest me in any way, and unfortunately I saw way too much of those looks this season. While runway pieces are meant to be more provocative, I’m usually still able to picture how I might style a piece in real life – this season I just found the clothes a little lifeless. Anyone else? Negative comments aside, I wanted to share a few of the collections I actually DID love. Which collections were your favorite for Fall/Winter 2016?

Veronica Beard – if you haven’t heard of them by now, they’re one you need to make note of. The designers behind Veronica Beard are sisters-in-law and both named, you guessed it, Veronica. Their collections are what I like to call “tailored bohemian”, featuring romantic silk pieces that are often paired with structured blazers and smart trousers. What I love most about their pieces is they are wearable. And I don’t mean wear once and let hang in your closet for all eternity. All of their creations are versatile and timeless, all while incorporating new trends and colors for the new seasons.

Derek Lam – feast your eyes ladies. I really can’t bow down more to him this season. That printed fur vest is heaven sent! I love Lam’s modern take on the glamour girl. A Cruella-esque tulle gown that’s both edgy and feminine? How does he do it?! I want every piece. The layering in this collection is also ingenious – a turtleneck layered under an otherwise daring deep-v beaded dress dresses it down to an almost sexy librarian degree, am I right?

ADEAM – you may remember this name from last year around this time. Last February was my first time attending ADEAM’s show, and they just keep coming out with more impressive ideas. This fall you’ll find fabulously deconstructed pieces matched with ultra-feminine details like fluttering pleats or soft pastel hues. Also, can we talk about the shoes? Cayuuuute.

Lela Rose – this gal is always on my list. While she sticks to what she knows (flattering, feminine, classic), each season she dares to try a few new trends. That’s what I love about Lela – you can always count on your favorite silhouettes to return each season, but fresh details keep you current. This season I’m impressed with her rendition of an evening jumpsuit. The glimmering fabric is gorgeous, and with the right pair of statement earrings and heels, you’ll be the most stylish one at the party.

Marissa Webb – another incredibly wearable brand, Marissa Webb is a new favorite of mine. This season she’s taken traditional, masculine workwear and turned it on its head. The tie-belt and flyaway fringed detail on these plaid suiting trousers takes them from boring to beautiful. I can see all of my New York girlfriends wearing any of these pieces to work – so chic and refined.

Kate Spade New York – leave it to Kate Spade to give a girl what she wants. Lace, mixed prints, soft pleating and several good tie-neck styles to keep you tailored while playing the girly-girl this fall! While prints are always big at Kate Spade New York, this fall sees a return to more simple color combos and prints (which I love)! Loud prints are hard to re-wear, so their choices this fall will make the collection a little more timeless.

{ all photography via Vogue }