Designer b michael wows NYFW with spring 2013 couture show

Held at the spectacular Jumeirah Essex House in Midtown, the Grand Salon's crystal chandeliers, soft lighting and soaring ceilings provided a stunning backdrop for the glamorous and modern collection.

Models showcased timeless cocktail and party dresses with strong lines, luxe fabrics and vivid floral tones, while daytime looks featured sophisticated navy-white neutrals. The show was incredibly well-received.

Notable front row attendees included Star Jones, Kathryn Chenault, Ms. Cicely Tyson, Susan L. Taylor, Constance White, Amy Fine Collins, Tamara Tunie with husband Gregory Generet, Brenda Blackmon, Betsy Cohen, Cheryl Willis and Norman and Suzanne Cohn.

Prior to the show, guests were first treated to a private champagne reception in the Petit Salon. Mark-Anthony Edwards, co-founder, CEO and media relations for b michael America, made sure guests received five star treatment as he and b michael mingled with the crowd.

A short presentation from the designer's charitable organization, Today's Students Tomorrow's Teachers (TSTT), preceded the show. Shahid Wright, the first graduate of the program which mentors and funds economically challenged students pursuing careers in teaching, gave a very moving speech thanking organizers and event sponsors Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. b michael strongly believes in paying it forward and leverages his platform to support worthwhile causes.

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