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The buzz around Lincoln Center in New York City today was lit up with 3 syllables, Richard Chai. 

Our second stop for the day (following the dazzling presentation for BCBG that you can see here) was to check out the young (and handsome) designer’s Fall Winter collection, and boy, were we in for a re-designed military treat. 

Aside from the anticipation to see the designer’s minimalistic, yet edgy chic looks, bloggers, celebrities and editors alike were excited to get a 2-in-1 deal, as Chai was one of the very few to show collections for men and women on the same runway. 

PHOTOS: BCBG Max Azria Layers It Up Bohemian Style For Fall 2013 Collection 

The models walked out in what some could envision as fashion couples in male and female renditions of the same fabric.

The flow of the show was beautiful, blending from botanical Linden greens, to metallic, and eventually to the unexpected pop of purple, a color that we can bank on not seeing on many fall runways. It was an unconventional additive, but added to the overall aesthetic that carefully integrated printed suits for both men and women, and romantic slip-like gowns paired with structured coats. 

PHOTOS: Richard Chai Love Spring/Summer 2013 Collection

The highlight of it all? Richard’s re-introduction of peplum with a pleated twist, and of course the fall purple. If Richard and Tim Weiland’s runways are indications of what will stick, plaid suits are about to have a major moment for both men and women.

Trends spotted: pleated peplum, printed suits, military greens, metallic, ethnic prints, purple, re-invented cowl neck.

Faces in the front row: Christina Ricci, Ashlee Simpson, Nick Wooster.

Our rating: We may be biased! The line is very, very New York City in the fall, dark, simple and chic, so naturally we love certain aspects of it. 

Our favorite look: The hooded bomber coat in the abstract purple floral print.

Follow GlobalGrind’s @MiissHislop for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week updates from inside the tents.