Spotted at the tents

By Ed Biado

One of the things that make fashion weeks in New York more interesting is the number of celebs who sit front-row. But, as evident this season at the recent Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (Fall 2009), there are less of these high-profile names as designers are cutting down on production costs. But there are still some pretty fashionable folk from the Holly-hood that jetted to the opposite coast to catch up on Style 101. Here are those who took the lessons to heart and passed the grueling fashion test with panache:

1. Kanye West – A true fashion fan, West jazzes up a simple tee with a statement coat with stunning embellishments. Just the right amount of bling and the perfect shades, the look works well and the emphasis is on the wearer’s attitude.

2. Natasha Bedingfield – Right beside our rebellious Kanye someone from across the pond that successfully brings British poshness to the Manhattan affair. Her prints under the structured blazer is stylish, but not over the top.

3. Leighton Meister – In tune with the season’s hottest trends, Queen B shines in metallics and less-is-more sensibilities. Her boho-inspired hair, signature leggings and belted waist are oh-so-New York socialite.

4. Alicia Keys – Always one to experiment with aesthetics, Keys keeps it simple this time with covering almost everything up with this black tailored look. Her silver slingbacks are doing all the singing and you can’t help but listen close.

5. Elijah Wood – Mix and matching layers is a guy thing this season and Wood does it impeccably. The jacket’s texture is dressed down enough to be worn with a nice pair of jeans, manly shoes and a little geekification, courtesy of the all-buttoned-up plaid.

6. Eva Longoria – Looking very much like a first lady of the Red Carpet, Longoria chooses to accentuate her more mature side this season with a multi-toned topper with a little pale dress. The leather purse blends in seamlessly.

7. Rachel Zoe – Wearing a complicated patterned number for her Fash Week appearance, Zoe gets her style on with a cute little hat and black leggings and elevator pumps. The bold cuffs and cocktail ring adds personality and funky-ness.

8. Kristen Bell, Michelle Trachtenberg, Jessica Struop, Paris Hilton and Nicky Hilton – Like a great ensemble cast, this quintet look on point and “together” even if they exude different fashionabilities.

9. Lindsay Lohan – The high-waist skinnies paired with the peek-a-boo top and simple booties is an understated, but very fashion-forward, look. The minimal accessorizing and modest hairdo completes the effect.

10. Ashley Dupree – The “patchy” jacket breaks up a monochromatic ensemble, but doesn’t take away the “biker chick” effect that the ensemble is all about. This is actually one of the season’s leather-alternatives—something similarly constructed, but softer and more feminine.