Albert Kriemler, the Swiss designer for Akris, never disappoints. He’s a fabric fanatic who uses only the best materials. His collections are often very sleek and very beautiful–but edgy is not in his vocabulary.

I love his work and appreciate his craftsmanship–but while his clothes are truly beautiful, I don’t believe I’ve ever owned a piece of Akris. That said, this collection was on of his best. He even showed more pizazz–and Spring clothes always look more appealing, at least to me.

I do know many American women, especially New Yorkers, adore Akris. Probably because its designs are modern, but not aggressively so. On the other hand, the brand needs to freshen up its presentation–especially its window displays–because that’s what catches a customer’s eye.

Women love Albert because he’s a great designer who understands quality and craftsmanship. They also love that his vision for Akris is dependable–you simply can’t go wrong–making it perfect for customers who prefer to play it safe (not necessarily a bad thing). All of which makes Daphne Guinness’s involvement as the face of the brand that much more ironic, considering she’s the last person to “play it safe.” Perhaps she knows something others don’t? I wouldn’t be surprised.

With Albert Kriemler, the designer for Akris

Photographs by Marie Goujon. Runway images via Style.com