New York Fashion Week has kicked off in the Big Apple and the first day included understated elegance as Max Azria and Yigal Azrou showcased their Spring collections.

Max Azria hopes that his Spring 2009 collection will make women prettier and more confident. Inspired by modern dance, the release of the soft, flowing lines of Azria's latest designs coincide with the 20th anniversary of BCBG MAX AZRIA. Azria says his Spring collection comprises functional clothes that suit any lifestyle.

Azria chose muted, solid colors to ensure the proportions and fabric texture define the garments. The clothes release a glamour just like modern dance brings to its audience: a kind of understated elegance.

Israeli-born designer Yigal Azrou's Spring collection also features muted colours - reminiscent of the desert. Many of the fabrics were washed to achieve a lived-in feel and they were often texturised to appear airy and voluminous.