MODELOS: Milly by Michelle Smith Spring 2010 RTW.

Abbey Lee

Let other designers have their springtime florals and pastels. Milly's Michelle Smith is going for something darker.

Heloise Guerin

"It sounds funny," Smith, best known for her bright sixties-inspired shifts, said backstage today, "but basing a whole collection around the color black felt really fresh and unexpected."

Alana Zimmer

Smith stuck with her tried-and-true silhouettes—sheaths, minishorts, and swingy elbow-sleeve coats with oversize buttons—giving the ebony versions a touch of whimsy with dramatic gold embellishment around necklines and hems.

Siri Tollerød

The real story today, though, was the debut of Milly's costume jewelry. A longtime collector herself, Smith weighed down her models with tangles of chunky chain necklaces and stacked bangles that, even worn solo, are standout statement pieces priced well at $200 to $400.