Fashion Week Dress Trends for Fall 2009

Erin Fetherston sent ballerina after ballerina down her runway wearing the prettiest tutu-inspired dresses imaginable. The voluminous skirt looks just as wonderful on the dancefloor as it does on stage.

Can't decide what color you want to wear for that upcoming formal soiree? Opt for a two-tone dress and wear the best of both worlds. Abaete showed white=and-black dresses that resembled (and could be achieved with) really chic separates.

At a time when we can all use an extra glimmer of glamour, over-the-top '80s extravagance was all over the runways. Marc by Marc Jacobs showed short, sassy ball gowns with fabulous flourishes and oversized flowers.

Last season's eponymous one-shouldered dress is back and bigger than ever. Thakoon's unique twist on the trend featured a strapless dress with a chiffon-gathered asymmetrical strap. Another "shoulder" style to keep you eye on: strong shoulder padding (see '80s trend) was shown on more than a few runways.

Ruffles are the quickest way to add a cute, quirky sensibility to your cocktail dress. Go for tiers and tiers of frills, like Jill Stuart, or simply use the trend as a trim, bringing a poof of princess to the hem of your dress.