>> Nuj Novakhett (pronounced Newzj Nova-ket)'s eponymous line sells well at Satine in LA, but it's New York style that she really likes — that's why she chose to hold the Fashion Week debut of her two-year-old collection in where else — Manhattan.

The Big Apple may inspire her label's overarching aesthetic, but for Spring 2009, the focus comes by way of Europe. While watching a go-kart race in Spain, Nuj was entranced by the spectators's garb: "Everyone was wearing sporty clothes, and I was inspired by the colors of the cars." Hence, a collection of black and white, punctuated by bright blue and orange.

The presentation style was a collaboration with buzzed-about stylist Keegan Singh — the two were brought together by Nuj's PR — and resulted in four rows of four girls each, standing on a white square block and peeling out periodically. "Like the start of a car race," as Nuj put it.

One thing's for sure, this Thailand-based designer has eyes on her — both Style.com and Vogue were represented while I was there. Also spied: Ataui Deng, Alek Wek's neice, looking imposing in a deconstructed black gown.