Ahead of the Game: Pre-Fall Collections 2009

Fashion isn't just about spring and fall. Pre-collections have increasingly become a force in the industry. Here's a look at some pre-fall 2009 collections from the designers we all know and love.

REEM ACRA: “It’s all about understated luxury,” said the designer, and, with the rich-looking beadwork on these dresses, no jewelry will be required.

NARCISO RODRIQUEZ: Narciso Rodriguez infused his collages into bold prints on silk dresses and tops, creating a layered effect.

BADGLEY MISCHKA: According to Mark Badgley and James Mischka, pre-fall is about “beautiful, happy clothes ­— nothing serious,” and with that in mind, they turned out a lineup of fanciful gowns and youthful cocktail dresses with plenty of embellishments, feathers and frayed ruffles.

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG: It’s a jungle out there, or, as Diane von Furstenberg said of her pre-fall collection, an urban jungle.

MONIQUE LHUILLIER: Her frothy frocks and dramatic gowns would make any starlet stand out.

OSCAR DE LA RENTA: Good times and bad, one can always count on Oscar de la Renta to deliver real clothes, the kind that have at least a prayer of being purchased and worn.