Still, for all the wonderful detailing, the fit which was perfect, and the colors never went beyond grey, black, white and ochre. It was as if the depression and uncertainty we live in was reflected on the runway.

Such restlessness was hilariously summed up in a show by Elmer Avenue, a high energy show that was Adam Ant Gets A Job At Hot Topic, or Beetle Juice Goes To South Coast Plaza. With a blazer embellished with the word "betrayal," one just couldn't take their luxe anarchic attitude seriously.

These are dire times, and this recession is going to stick around for a long while. However, I can't help but think it's a bit clichéd to express discord by only using blacks and greys.

The reality is, despite what happens on the runways, we'll all go down the clinker wearing colors from Costco and Target. It's unfortunate that out of so many colors, many luxe designers are sticking with shitake, ochre, and black. One can only hope someone rescues them from their sinking ship very soon.

Evidence of our thirst for color came when Falguni & Shane Peacock Couture took the runway in an explosion of color and texture. The silks were in a riot of patterns, with details such as jewels, rich embroidery using gold thread, feathers, and small bejeweled purses recalled the days of the Raj.

Only two designers from India could pull off such a sumptuous and dazzling collection. At last, Falguni & Shane treated us to a visual experience that dazzled us, and did what great fashion does: imports us to a different world.

My advice for those wanting to buy from the 2008 colors is to pick one or two you like. Go through the fashion mags and find one piece that will work with what you've got in your closet. It could be a jacket or even a scarf. (For my money, better to buy a scarf than a shirt or dress that just doesn't fit).

Men, consider a tie, pocket square, or a dress shirt in Royal Lilac. It's not about tossing everything out and buying everything new (I take that back. For some people it is). It's about finding the one essential piece that makes you feel fresh for the season.

All photos courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.