For Fall 2009, Richard Chai delivers a collection that would not be out of place in downtown galleries and studio lofts, where tan leather, cool charcoals, and sleek pantsuits make a perfect transition from work to lounge.

Olive parkas and fluffy spotted feather coats mixed well with the cool concrete tones. Slouchy pants and wide-legged trousers kept prim turtleneck sweaters and lamb shearling looking comfortable and gritty. There was a very masculine approach to the sculpted blazers and leather vests with turned up collars – although the dove-grey draped separates and those all-over print suits in Poppy and Confetti were definitely very flirty elements. Bright hues do come to play, seen in the fuchsia tank dresses. Also noteworthy are the scruffy open-toe lace up boots, which added a very grungy appeal.

– Tiffany Chang