Lela Rose Fall 2008 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week The Tents at Bryant Park February 3, 2008 Written by Wendy R. Williams Photographed by Mary Blanco

Texas native Lela Rose has designed her own line since 1996. She has developed a justified reputation for clothing that is fun, sexy, whimsical and traditional. Rose is a designer who has her feet planted squarely on the ground; she knows her customer. Rose is a favorite of the Bush daughters and is in the running to design Jenna's wedding dress.

For Fall of 2008, Rose's line showcased a very non New York look; color was everywhere. Bright orange, mustard and vivid blue marched down the runway coloring daywear garments made from unexpected fabric choices. Brown gauze peeked out from under a brocade skirt and a slouchy mustard colored sweater topped a flirty short vivid blue satin skirt.

Rose also presented a sophisticated and fun line of evening wear with pretty peek-a-boo blouses and sparkly satin dresses that evoked the midnight sky.

Rose has now joined the satellite of young designers (Lela Rose, Abaete and Alice + Olivia) who are designing shoes and purses for Payless Shoes. So a truly American style and sensibility is now available to all of America.

For more about Lela Rose, log onto: www.lelarose.com.
To see the Lela Rose Payless collection, log onto: payless.com