While we’re running around New York, the team at Catwalk Queen has more time for analyzing. (Guess we’ll have to return the favor during London Fash Week!) Gemma Cartwright writes…

We’re only a few days into New York Fashion Week, and already obvious trends are emerging. Most of these surround colour, which is no surprise considering trend predictors have been tipping folk off for months about what hues will be making waves in the future.

In New York, everything is (in the words of Betty Rizzo) “peachy keen, jellybean”. At almost every show so far, we’ve seen shades of peach or soft coral in every fabric from suede to chiffon…

Marc Jacobs has chosen to use this shade in criss-cross maxi dresses dressed up with statement belts and accessories in black. Chris Benz sent and oversize tee slouched over frilled skirts, while Isaac Mizrahi used shades of coral, pink and orange in a spotty print on a suit and long Summer dress.

Peter Som’s belted, buttery soft suit was finished with glam Bruno Frissoni sandals, while Thakoon’s intricately pleated grecian gown called for no accessories whatsoever. Finally, Jill Stuart went for the most romantic use of the colour, with watercolour peaches on a diaphanous chiffon fairy dress.

Click images to enlarge.

Jill Stuart devotees will be very happy with the pretty colors and fabrics floating down the spring 09 runway at the New York Public Library. Silk and organza dresses were paired with lots of layers (some in drab jersey, just looked sloppy) and some oversized, cropped jackets (much smarter). The muted pinks, ivories and grays were shot through with a few metallics. And it wasn’t the first time we’ve seen some chunky knits on spring runways, interesting. New trend in response to the over-air conditionification of America?

We already let you know Michelle Trachtenberg (“Buffy,” “Gossip Girl”) was front row, but check out a more surprising face after the jump.

Nigel Barker, no surprise there, was chatting with a more famous face – Bette Midler! She is looking really good!

[Model images via Coutorture]