Zang Toi Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Spring 2011 The Tents at Lincoln Center September 15, 2010 Written by Wendy R. Williams Photographed by Eka Halim

The spirit of Texas hit the tents at Zang Toi's Spring 2011 Fashion Show. The first model down the runway was a hunky young guy clad only in a ten gallon black cowboy hat and a pair of skin tight jeans - always a welcome sight.

Next came an parade of models wearing slim fitting pants and tailored shirts, all topped with the aforementioned hats. Of particular note in this "hatted" collection were the fringed pants (for both men and women) and the stunning black shirt dress with a plunging neckline and an open front lined with the black and white western screen print that Toi used in many of his show-stopping gowns.

After the western collection had warmed up the crowd, models walked the runway in Toi's signature elegant dressy suits and party gowns, many in black with a touch of pink. Roses were a theme in this collection, with several dresses made from a pretty cabbage rose print and a fabulous black cocktail dresses which featured a top covered in delicate pink roses.

The Malaysian-born Toi knows his customer: elegant women who live all around the world. Although many of his garments are sexy and fun, he always designs some modest day wear and party gowns, suitable for both older women who are chairing the symphony ball and women who live in countries where conservative clothing is the custom.

As always, a very good job!