As a longtime lover of bold prints, Spanish label Desigual has always intrigued me. Known for their over the top use of color and pattern, some of their designs were even too much for me, crossing the fine line from interesting to busy.  For their FW15 collection, however, they walked that line with aplomb.

It was my first show at the last ever Mercedes Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center, and was great kickoff to NYFW.  The oversized flower crowns, sunflower yellow suede booties, and richly textural hair provided the necessary runway drama and cohesion, but all the pieces remained eminently wearable on their own.

Gorgeous model Chantelle Winnie, recently announced as the face of the brand, walked three times. This brocade inspired print she wore was one of my favorites of the show.

Maybe it is because it is ridiculously cold in NYC right now, but the chunky knits were also standout pieces to me.  As Desigual’s sizing goes up to XXL, I strongly suspect this off the shoulder number will be in my closet as soon as it hits the stores.

The inspiration for the collection was the creative process itself, and the outcome combined a mish mosh of influences (“Abstract paintings, photographs of Africa, a voyage to northern Europe and a landscape full of flowers”) into unique and striking prints in a variety of textiles.

Additional favorites include the printed faux furs – the logical next step in the colored fur trend.  This cropped sweater is another piece I’ll be keeping an eye out for in stores.

Crop tops are another trend that seems to be holding strong for Fall/Winter 15, as I saw them repeatedly, both at Desigual and beyond. I’m personally quite happy that this style isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Desigual also showed their take on the athleisure trend, with signature mixed prints and sporty raglan sleeves.

Remarkably, the models looked just cheerful as the prints, sporting big smiles, occasionally high fiving each other or busting a move while they walked – a stark contrast to the dour expressions that typically march down the runway.  I always appreciate fashion that does not take itself too seriously.

I also love that the show was filled with racial diversity, another thing that is all too uncommon in the big shows.  Body diversity would be a fantastic next step, and I hope to see it next season.

What is your favorite piece from my picks?  Keep an eye out for more runway reports from NYFW – I’ll be posting throughout the week.

All photos courtesy Desigual.