Angel's Design Rooted in Black.

(CBS)  Fashion designer Michael Angel seems cautiously optimistic about the economy for next spring, considering his collection that officially kicked off New York Fashion Week Thursday morning had bits of bright color and glitz — more than most fall styles in stores now — but it was all still rooted in black.

The nod to flamboyancy was most obvious in his prints, which were oversized photo images of gems and jewelry. Presumably, the gist is: Instead of wearing expensive jewelry next season, you'll be wearing pictures of it.

But the aspiration to be glamorous was clear in the clothes. A green print dress with chunks of gold embellishment around the neck and a floral pleated blouse paired with a petal-style black miniskirt, were noteworthy. For the more daring customer, there was a short vinyl-like pleated bra top paired with that same miniskirt.

Yet, the best looks might have been the more sophisticated ones, including a scarlet jewel-inspired print dress with a sheer taupe top worn underneath it. The chunks of gold on the sleeve gave that hint of showiness consistent in the line.

A photo of late heiress Nancy Cunard was the starting point for the collection, Australian-born Angel said in his notes. He then looked at fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli, singer Josephine Baker and artist Tamara de Lempicka for further inspiration.

"The look is fresh yet opulent — she is finished yet playful and sexy — this season she is a precious gem — a gift — wrapped up in a multitude of print," Angel explained in his notes to the editors, stylists and editors in the audience at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Bryant Park.