NEW YORK, Dec 20, 2000 / --- Zang Toi's Spring 2001 show today offered Southwestern styles for the society set.

Inspired by Native American imagery during a trip to Montana over Memorial Day, the designer presented looks in suede, Navajo geometric patterns, and a "Wild Wild West" print, with accents on turquoise, fringe, and heavy silver beading.

In fact, the last gown he sent down the runway was a turquoise number entitled "An American Indian Princess" -- Zang Toi's version of Versace glam, with a network of intricate silver beading that took almost two full days to weave.

Most pieces in Zang Toi's collection were assembled with a similar fastidiousness when it comes to tailoring.

The cuts and silhouettes were flattering and beautifully executed.

Mini-skirts, a series of trench-coat inspired dresses, skirts and tops, and peaked lapel fitted shirts were especially impressive.

The colors and fabrics seemed chosen for a chillier season, with pieces in burgundy and brown, suede and corduroy.

But that wasn't a first this New York Fashion Week, where designers seemed to insist that anything goes.

When styled for spring with suede capris, or paired with delicate pieces in silk georgette for summer, the fabrics and hues created a soft, textured look.

Toi was broad-minded in his references -- perhaps to a fault.

Most of the themes and trends that he conjured were seen in past seasons.

The cowboy look (driven home by ubiquitous cowboy hats), fringe, oversized flower details, plaid, even the turquoise accents -- all felt stale, yet this didn't seem to bother the audience one bit.

The front row, a medley of buyers and friends of Toi, peppered the show with bursts of applause.

Afterwards, the designer, clad in a white tuxedo top and shorts, met his adoring fans on the runway for heartfelt praise and photo-ops.

"I think it will sell, right?" he asked the enthusiastic group.

The answer was a unanimous nod.

Zang Toi

Zang Toi

Zang Toi

Zang Toi

Zang Toi