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Tracy Reese: Nature inspired Spring/Summer 2012 collection

Models walk the runway at the Tracy Reese Spring 2012 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on Sept. 11, 2011, in New York. CBS/Getty

(CBS) In stark contrast to a day of somber remembrance, marked by a solemn memorial service at ground zero a few short miles away, New York Fashion Week continued amidst heightened security and NYPD presence.

Tracy Reese showcased her new Spring/Summer 2012 runway collection at the Lincoln Center tents, but respectfully marked the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks by joining with show partners Sally Hansen and TRESemme to make donations to charity organizations Action America and Families of Freedom.

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Reese's new collection was bursting at the seams with vibrant colors, inspired, as she told me backstage while getting ready for the show, by "everything around me in nature - the sky, the clouds, the ocean."

Pastel blues, corals and blush colors mixed with bright neons and muted khakis in a truly eclectic mix of colors, prints and fabrics to create a thoroughly modern, somewhat bohemian silhouette.

The overall look was light and feminine with an emphasis on long fluid lines. The designer said she placed a lot of focus on dresses this season. These were shown in longer lengths in drapey jerseys, lace and crepes, accessorized with laced edged cardigans, anoraks, leather jackets and loose henleys. Palazzo pants and wide legged jumpsuits echoed the comfortable and voluminous feel of the collection. Lean lines in skirts and lace shorts paired with billowy fly-away blouses and dresses and prints relied heavily on delicate floral motifs.

Reese says the line is a reflection of the modern woman and her busy lifestyle, adding she wanted to incorporate a sporty, edgy feel while maintaining a romantic, feminine look to the clothes, all while being very conscious of the pocket books of women out to buy her looks. She says dresses are an economical way to get a complete look, without having to splurge on separates.

Celebrities including Angela Bassett, Solange Knowles and Jamie-Lynn Sigler were all on hand to view the collection.

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