The Best of Pre-Fall From Phi, Proenza Schouler, Balenciaga, Nina Ricci, and Ungaro

In the latest round of pre-fall collection releases, the clear winners are Proenza Schouler (no surprise there) and the black-and-olive collection by the local label, Phi. Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough wowed us with their toasty looking leather jackets and pants while Phi's simple banding and all-the-way-to-the floor dresses were basic without being boring. Balenciaga, as well, played with leather and glamour, offering furs so enticing that we almost threw our ethical reservations out the window. Olivier Theyskens may not have broken much ground with his new collection from Nina Ricci, but the bold, red jacket, chiffon dresses, and classic styling still pleased the eye. Finally, Emanuel Ungaro was rife with punchy color and forward-looking, Continental flair. All in all, these new looks offer a colorful, stylish pause between summer and fall.