NEW YORK, Feb 22, 2002/ FWD/ --- Right from the first two outfits, the Michael Kors Fall 2002 collection was a raging hit.

A pewter and camel reversible shell coat worn over one of the designer's signature high roll-up sweaters on the divine Carmen Kass, followed by a camelhair Fairisle sweater over a delightfully feminine cutout lace suede skirt on the exquisite Carolyn Murphy, set the tone for a show bristling with winning pieces.

Kors has always known how to take American sportswear to new levels of sophistication, but this time he exceeded even his own highest standards, presenting American luxury at its best.

One could sense a collective quiver of desire for Kors' spectacular new looks among every editor, buyer and stylist in the exclusive audience.

Bridget Hall walked the runway in a slim trompe l'oeil herringbone suede pantsuit that is sure to make the pages of next September's hottest fashion magazines, as will the black leather smocked vest worn by the same Kors-favorite supermodel.

Kors also made a powerful statement with fur this season, from a Catherine-the-Great style paneled shearling storm coat with a fluffy, white high-collar trim, to the elongated coyote vests worn over narrow jumpers and jersey pantsuits - perfect for a weekend in Aspen.

Rich girl looks are Kors' specialty, and he triumphed with a few great dresses for the moneyed set.

One, a pearl cashmere knit presented both in a mini and a maxi version, was a gutsy interpretation of last season's peasant blouse.

Grommets, buckles, panels and authoritarian boots were so well thought out, it made one want to pair the outfits in real life exactly as Kors showed them.

It is impossible to be a fashion victim when it comes to Kors -- one would have no qualms about buying an entire outfit and wearing it head to toe.

This show also presented Kors' first complete men's line that is, however, clearly a work in progress.

The collection had a few high points, like some fantastic coyote coats and cable sweaters, but it would be hard to imagine many men wearing Kors' hooded leather anoraks or his fur calf warmers off the catwalk.

But even if the menswear didn't gel, the women's collection was plain gorgeous.

Michael Kors Fashion

Michael Kors Fashion

Michael Kors Fashion