The CFDA Awards, often called the "Oscars" of the fashion world, is held annually in New York, bringing together not only America's leading designers but also supermodels, actresses, and other glamorous figures.

While the main Oscars ceremony typically features formal black-and-white attire, this is still a fashion festival. The atmosphere was one of fun and fashion, and the free-spirited, playful style typical of New York City was eye-catching.

The "Golden Girl" of the night was Nicole Richie, who showed up in a Marc Jacob dress. Supermodel Karolina Kurkova also drew attention in a metallic Michael Kors micro-shorts set. New York socialite Olivia Palermo also wore a gold dress. Dennis Basso's 1920s flapper-inspired designs, with their intricate textures and fringe, looked ready to dance at the club. And the original New York fashion queen, Betsey Johnson, at age 70, wore a pink tulle lace dress, appearing alongside her daughter, Lulu, who wore an animal print dress. The men were no less impressive. The award winners, of course, wore formal attire, and the other attendees all wore suits, but they also enjoyed a free-spirited style, with checkered patterns and shorts. Celebrity stylist Brad Goreski chose a crazy madras check suit from Thom Browne. A cute, somewhat quirky look seems to be the trend among New York men.