Good to Be Gold

“It’s Good to Be Me,” a show featuring the spring 2006 plus-size couture collection from designer Abby Z and co-sponsored by the World Gold Council, took place during New York’s Fashion Week. Abby Z’s signature looks—which have adorned such celebrities as Camryn Manheim and Queen Latifah—included flirty peasant skirts, the first couture collection of plus-size jeans, and sparkling V-neck tops that hugged and flattered curves. With the help of stylist Shaye Strager, the colorful creations were complemented by yellow-gold jewelry, especially necklaces. Large circular pendants, lariats, and layered chains were among the most prevalent styles.—Laura Finkelstein

Rat Pack Pearls

Designer Carmen Marc Valvo created a retro collection for spring 2006, reminiscent of Vegas in the 1960s and the women who loved the Rat Pack’s bad boys. Valvo, who has never been squeamish about dressing his runway models in fine jewelry, incorporated jewels into the clothes themselves. Among the creations, crafted by Tara & Sons and Perles de Tahiti, was a Tahitian pearl and 14k gold tank top and a sash to complement the largely black and white polka-dot collection.