Jason Wu Wows at Saks Fifth Avenue (Slideshow)

Maybe it was the special tent Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase erected in the parking lot, maybe it was the fancy outfits, the high-heeled patrons, the long, white, u-shaped runway complete with oversized crystal chandelier, or maybe it was just being able to see designer darling Jason Wu in person—but it all felt very “New York Fashion Week-comes-to-DC,” and we loved it. Wu, a favorite of Michelle Obama and countless celebrities, on Thursday showed his fall ready-to-wear collection during the third annual Great Ladies’ Luncheon, which raises funds for the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation. More than 350 women enjoyed a duo-salad lunch and the 15-minute fashion show—which included a booming, remixed soundtrack of Amy Winehouse and Adele songs, and lithe, expressionless models (we told you it reminded us of Fashion Week). Wu’s designs were feminine, sexy, and came mostly in black, with pops of red and purple. Wu told me he was very into luxe textures this season, showcasing fur, leather, and sumptuous, see-through chiffon, perfect for the flowy evening gowns that closed the show. View the slideshow of some of our favorite looks.

Kate Bennett