NEW YORK, Sep 23, 2002/ FWD/ --- It started with a bang, Britney Spears and bodyguards in the front row, the lights went up, and Naomi Campbell came strutting out in a fabulous beaded, palm print tunic dress.

"Flamingo Bay," as Matthew Williamson’s spring 2003 collection was called, was a brilliant medley of the designer’s best ideas.

Chiffon dresses were heavy with intricate beading; chevron skirts and blouses bore African tapestry detailing on the hem and necklines, and the prints were cool and colorful.

There were simpler pieces in off-white lace, a cami, dress and poncho but even they boasted some detail, whether it be a broach or a dash of pearl beading.

Even a simple khaki vest was littered with gold coins, another with a glitzy palm tree.

There was a stunning antique parrot dress adorned with sequins, tassels and color that will find its way out on the town, on the red carpet and in editorials.

Towards the end of the show, the sunset series was introduced -- a succession of evening dresses in oranges, purples and pinks with black palm tree diamante beading.

Accessories were as glitzy as the clothing, gold clutch bags and wrist cuffs, and shoes in either gold or metallic, pink and green.

The ultimate accessory, however, was Alek Wek's gold camera, with which she saucily snapped the press as she made her catwalk turn.

Matthew Williamson

Matthew Williamson

Matthew Williamson