Covering the fashion beat for the Collegian has introduced me to an array of new designers to admire. However, there is one who sticks out in my mind who has created the most beautiful fall ready-to-wear collection for this year, hands down.

Erin Fetherston, with her quirky blonde bob, looks unimposing on the runway, but her designs and concepts pack a powerful punch.

Her Fall 2008 collection features an array of cute prints, classic touches, and unprecedented cocktail dresses that would flatter any figure. Of all the collections I have purused this season, Fetherston's would be my top pick for young people today.

Wouldn't you love to trade in your North Face jacket for a preppy, sophisticated cold weather look like this?

Wouldn't you rather skip scouring the racks of downtown stores for a formal dress, and instead rock one of these precious cocktail looks.

I know I would, but unfortunately I fall into the college kid demographic that can't afford such designer fashions. Although I will never wear them, I will still revere these designs created by a young, fresh new stylist who has managed to light up the runway this season.

-- Beth Ann Downey