Fashion Wire Daily February 3, 2005 - NEW YORK - FWD: WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION FOR THIS COLLECTION? NR: This season I was inspired by the transition I made as a girl from the world of private school uniforms to the freedom of dress in a public school environment. It was this journey that really sparked my fascination with how we clothe ourselves. I quietly absorbed the images of those prim and elegant teachers, the librarians I believed to be secretly smoldering and the energy of contrasting two different worlds. I named the collection after the iconic yellow Dixon Ticonderoga pencil found in American classrooms; simply holding the beveled pencil takes me back to this time of budding self-expression.

FWD: WHAT COLORS AND FABRICS DID YOU USE THIS SEASON?

NR: One can expect to see vibrant reds and antique golden yellows. There will be fine woolens with interesting seam placement carved in coats and jackets. Soft silks will be trimmed with hand made appliqués.

FWD: WHAT DO YOU PREDICT (OR HOPE) WILL BE THE BIG TRENDS FOR FALL?

NR: Look for the return of structure and uniform-like garments. You can map the trend to Balenciaga's nautical collection from last season.

FWD: WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU HAPPY TO SEE DIE?

NR: Friends don't let friends wear ponchos.

FWD: WHAT OTHER DESIGNER’S SHOW ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING THIS WEEK?

NR: I look forward to seeing my good friend and fellow RISD grad Alex Grant's collection, this is her second time showing during New York Fashion Week. She brings brilliance down the runway.

FWD: WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING IF YOU WEREN’T A FASHION DESIGNER?

NR: Formula One racer.