Isabel Toledo for Payless Lazer Wedge Shootie, $39.99 (was $59.99)

Lela Rose for Payless Barton Colorblock Bootie, $64.99

dexflex by Dexter Claire Scrunch Flat, $29.99

Brash Josie Platform Shootie Wedge, $39.99

[Images Courtesy of Payless]

Before any model graced the runway at Lela Rose, the designer played “Imagine” in its entirety, a song reminiscent of peace; one world, one people. Only then did she begin her runway collection of beautiful, whimsical, overtly feminine pieces. Rose drew on a variety of inspirations from Vegas neon signs, the Coney Island amusement park, and graveyards to create signature checked spring jacquard and “carousel” cotton prints. Cinched waist dresses appeared in navy, white, gray, yellow, pink and more. Airy polka dotted skirts flounced by, cute cardigans made a sweet statement, and gold metallic floor length gowns reigned. A striking orange jacket, sure to stop traffic, left a lasting impression in classic structure. Pattern, embellishment, and even a few feathers made an elegant appearance on this runway. She also unveiled the latest Lela Rose for Payless ShoeSource collection. The footwear proved to be as vibrant as the clothing with graphic shapes and resin studding. When all is said and done, Lela Rose successfully crafted an approachable, girly collection for SS12.

-Alana Quagliariello

Z London Glitter Flat, $24.99 (loving that they have a “sidewalk sparkle” quality to them!)

I’ve always said that one can never own too many pairs of flats…and still stick to it! They are just so practical and constantly come in handy – plus when was the last time after a long day and tired feet you fantasized about slipping your foot into a pair of six inch stilettos? I wouldn’t recommend wearing flats every single day, as a little bit of heel actually can be good support and help your arch (just ask my podiatrist), but a few days a week, a super cute flat is a must. Take my latest two as a prime example- one fun and girly, the other sophisticated and chic, and both work appropriate. Thank you Payless BOGO, for helping me rationalize to add even more flats to my collection!

Lela Rose Carolina Flat, $34.99 (the silken fabric and hardware details won me over)

[The author with Ted Gibson, getting hair prepped and styled for the show]

BACKSTAGE BEAUTY:

Backstage Beauty for Lela Rose this season was complete starting with skincare from Arcona, nails by Deborah Lippmann, makeup by Stila and hair by Ted Gibson. I was suuuper lucky to get to speak with all the “Keys” (head stylist/artist)  Ted Gibson, and Sarah Lucero, key makeup artist. The look for nails was a soft coral color which tied in with the burnt sienna stained “velvet matte” lip. The skin was made flawless by prepping well with products by Arcona (the Triad Pads for removing makeup and the Desert Mist for hydrating and plumping – my two newest obsessions) followed by Stila’s One Step Makeup foundation for a natural matte finish.

The hair was big and sexy, but not in a Jerseylicious way…with a loose braid to the side and lots of natural volume through the top and sides rounded out the runway look. The complete beauty look complemented the collection through color with a bold lip and overall I would have to say I would DEFINITELY wear this look – the entire thing from hair to nails… and I may just do so tomorrow!

LELA ROSE RUNWAY SHOW:

Inspired by a feeling of Peruvian or Brazilian coastline meets tribal inspired patterns, the collection really showed a good range from casual to eveningwear.  The color palette was vibrant and bold, featuring a deep forest green, bright fuchsia, vibrant coral, and playful navy.  Neutral colors were cool in tone with a pale gold, light greys, and muted silvers, black and white. My favorite casual outfit was the short sleeve top with solid black stripes mixed with stripes of a mesh-like fabric, paired  flowing floral shorts and neutral platform peep toe double strap shoes (Lela Rose for Payless!!).  For evening, I LOVED the pale gold, deep V neckline, short belted dress with an off-kilter gather in the front.   Overall the collection for Lela Rose SS11 was a very easy and fun collection that any woman could wear.  Shoes displayed on the runway were part of the collaboration between the designer and Payless.  I found this collection easy to relate to and something to be excited about after months of wearing your winter darks!

-Jen Paelmo

Jen Paelmo is FPD’s resident makeup artist and friend extraordinaire who not only has covered backstage for FPD but has also created some backstage beauty looks for the Spring 2011 runways. Check out her portfolio and work here.

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Keds Eco-Friendly Willow Organic Cotton Sneaker,  $54.95

Lela Rose for Payless Fillmore Slip-On, $28

Albertus Swanepoel Khaki Fedora for The Gap, $39.50

Felix Rey for Target Large Canvas Tote in Blu, $22.48

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