Mar 9, 2002/ FWD/ --- "I was inspired by a mussel shell I found at the beach," a relaxed and polished-looking Christina Perrin told FWD before her show at the Roxy.

"I looked at the texture and the colors. On the outside, deep purple and blue; and then the inside, mother of pearl, ivory and pink."

The first pieces in the collection -- tunics, caftans and Perrin's interpretation of the three-piece as a jersey asymmetrical top over pants and a skirt -- had a distinctly softer silhouette than her usual form-fitting, daringly sexy numbers.

For fall 2002, however, the sex appeal of Perrin's clothes comes from within.

"The pieces in this collection are all soft," the designer explained.

"There are no physical pressures when the clothing is worn."

Perrin doesn't sacrifice glamour to this less fettered look, however.

A one-shoulder column dress in pinstripes threaded with paper, an ink tilapia evening dress, and an ink georgette evening dress with pearl gray beaded sleeves and sash, all had a seasoned, sophisticated look.

The designer hasn't abandoned her rock'n'roll tendencies for uptown refinement, either, as proven by a vintage patchwork leather evening dress, a cracked leather coat and some woven leather trousers.

As for whether Perrin will be dressing anyone for the Oscars this year: "People have been showing a lot of interest, but we'll see," she told us.

"I love dressing Calista Flockhart, Leelee Sobieski and Charlize Theron, but one person I would love to design for is Uma Thurman. I think she's talented and truly naturally beautiful."

Uma, are you listening?

Daniella Pestova(R) front row at Christina Perrin Show

Izabella Miko front row at Christina Perrin Show

Maria Bello and Mariska Hargitay front row at Christina Perrin Show