New Year’s fashion is always a little over the top isn’t it? Sparkly, shiny, and sometimes sheer!  All these elements come into play in this fashion flashback to designer Ann Bowen’s collection for Autumn and Winter of 2012. Since starting her eponymous collection in 1999, Bowen has kept busy honing her aesthetic of ultra-feminine, yet not-too-girly couture. Expanding into the bridal world with a collection in 2009, she has definitely made her name in the New York fashion world. Her designs are currently sold at only the highest of the high-end retailers, including Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, to name just a few.  

I enjoy her attention to detail and exquisite handwork on her garments, especially the evening gowns. These photographs were taken during her intimate show at a gallery space on Central Park West on a cold February evening. I really like the model with the red bowl cut! She just seems to have a very fresh look to me. 

While not everyone has the physical attributes that these models have, we can take away a few key elements. The peek-a-boo panels and sheer qualities of some of the dresses are sexy, but not vulgar. You might just go for a sheer sparkly blouse for your own take on this ever popular trend. Or, you might want to go for the minimalist look of the body conscious black dresses on display here as well. The grooming of the models with their sleek hair and simple make up focused on a smoky eye are the perfect counterpart to all the glamour!