As the title sponsor of New York fashion week, Mercedes-Benz always has the pleasure, and major responsibility, of selecting one designer on whom to bestow the honor of being that season’s Mercedes-Benz presents designer. For Spring/Summer 2012, it was Derek Lam who was chosen to get behind the wheel and drive fashion week decidedly into the future.

The collection, which was shown on the emotional ten-year anniversary of 9-11, was clean and cheery with architectural influences that created a somewhat more upbeat mood amongst onlookers. Pops of color like a sunny shade of yellow and clean, strong lines spoke to the West Coast inspirations that drove the show. The creations of Richard Neutra were an especially potent point of reference for Lam, who happens to be a California native. Even the graphic prints were posh and polished.

All in all the collection of cohesive and refreshingly American which was extra appropriate on a day like today.