Manhattan continues to buzz after last September's Fashion Week, in which upstart designers appeared to have made a bigger splash over many of the more established designer labels.

While some market titans drew a collective yawn, the future of fashion appeared to be in the creativity of some burgeoning names.

Just one month ago, with the somber mood of a city and country mourning the most tragic day of the century, there was perhaps tepid enthusiasm for viewing the newest clothing designs, as an awkwardness was palpable in Midtown as downtown was reflective on something far more tectonic.

Still, there was plenty to talk about on that Sunday morning, as Victoria Beckham continued her transition from a minor participant in fashion design to a legitimate industry player when her highly anticipated spring collection showcased a sleek and sporty line on the runway at the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue.

Beckham, 37, appeared to maintain her signature style of subtle sexiness with dresses that would probably be best suited for watching matches at Roland Garros in a private luxury box, or an afternoon stroll through a well-manicured garden. Her previous collection has already been worn by many Hollywood celebrities, which include Drew Barrymore and Elle MacPherson.

Though Eric Wilson of The New York Times was dismissive of the fresh functions of the dress straps, the consensus was that Beckham's collection was a resounding success due to the former pop music star's keen attention to detail.

As Beckham strengthened her reputation, new and exciting talents were making a name for themselves throughout New York that same day.

Dominic Louis, the riveting creation of Louis Mairone, was one ascending line that left both art and fashion enthusiasts feeling that they perhaps witnessed the most inspired presentation of the dozens of presentations in the week-long event.

Sampling from contemporary perceptions of a post-apocalyptic world, Mairone tapped into a particularly nuanced clothing style at Eyebeam Art and Technology Center in Chelsea.

The symbolism of the artist's collection was not lost on those who appreciated Mairone's progressive collection.

On the decade anniversary of September 11th, where a rather paralyzed global economy is accompanied by drastic cautions about climate change, the public has become overwhelmed with shouts about the end of the world -- whether they come from rapture-referencing Christian fundamentalists or the ancient Mayans, and Mairone's artistic vision quintessentially paralleled the hysteria the mass media sometimes willfully promotes.

Combining some very innovative styles with past illusions, Dominic Louis appears to have the makings of a thriving label. There is a sense that Mairone has found a niche in merging biblical styles with fashion that many once expected for the future.

Mairone maintains his grand purpose is to have his work influence others.

If someone just picks up one concept from [the presentation], and uses that in their work, or to better them, and especially for a client -- if they can add one new shape, silhouette or sensibility to their wardrobe -- I think that's when I can feel true satisfaction, he said.

Fashion week New York Fashion week The New York Times