Oh, London! I’ve always felt something very strong for you. You’ve given me so much—David Bowie, Kate Moss, Absolutely Fabulous—and now this! I always look forward to your runways to bring me elation and inconceivable credit card debt. This season is no different, aside from the fact that I have learned to truly appreciate you. After my amicable yet disappointing love affair with New York, you have really come through for me—gave me exactly what I needed and taught me how to love again. But you’re far from safe and simple—you still excite me with your perfect fusion of conceptualism and wearability! You’re like the rebound that makes a girl wonder how she ever loved anyone so mediocre.

I related so much to the Fall 2008 Biba Collection. Started in the 60s, the line has always been aimed at a younger market with sophisticated taste. They continued that tradition this season with looks so beautifully embellished and put-together. The clothes are grown up, with an elegance that young women desire, but still with a girlish charm.

Danielle Scutt made me really excited about this shift to the 70s (this is no easy feat, as I love everything 60s, from the Velvet Underground to French New Wave). Whenever we look backward for inspiration, it’s always important to execute forward, which she did perfectly. She took 70s details—like fringe, platforms, and high waists—and modernized them with an urban streetwear edge.

At Berube, they created pieces that were very designed, but simplified them with a perfect palette. The blacks, whites, and neutrals kept the looks more subdued, but the striking pops of hot pink made the whole collection sing.

Ana Sekularac was what London Fashion Week is all about. The city’s fashion is nothing if not avant-garde. She captured that with her use of volume, daring shapes, bright bright colors, and crisp, impeccable tailoring. The result was a collection that’s a little bit angular, a little bit Victorian.

At Poltock & Walsh, there was a slight Carnivale-ish feel that I found so whimsical and pretty. The iridescent silks and jewel tones were so stunning. Fiamma Poltock and Katie Walsh have a knack for creating such easy elegance. They are certainly a duo to watch.

And I close this with the London fashion mecca that is Topshop. It’s been the high-street shop of every girl’s dreams, especially since the introduction of its Unique line. (If you’re unfamiliar with it, think upscale, more fashion-forward H&M). Topshop embraced a mostly black and neutral palette, which perfectly married the tough, skin-tight leather to more girlish, voluminous silhouettes. Someone once called me a beautiful bundle of contradictions. It’s true, and I enjoy the same contrast in fashion!

So cheers to you, London! Next stop: Milan.

By Dana Poblete

Check out my coverage of Fall 2008 New York Fashion Week!