WWD – Women’s Wear Daily & Barney’s New York

Maximum Mouse Exposure: Catching photographers’ eyes this season were none other than Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Daisy Duck, and more. The gang teamed up with Barneys New York for a Paris fashion spectacular.

Bonjour, Paris: Nicolas Ghesquière, Alber Elbaz and more created runway ensembles that had front-rowers buzzing.

Beauty Beat: An over-the-top outfit can only take you so far. What did hair and makeup gurus Guido Palau and Pat McGrath have up their sleeves on the beauty front? How did a hairstylist navigate those ears?

Snap Happy: The photographer’s pit had some serious competition on this catwalk, with the likes of Steven Meisel, Mario Sorrenti, and Juergen Teller on hand clicking away.

We Are Hearing:  Minnie to the Max: Minnie Mouse kicked off the week alongside stylish A-listers including Sarah Jessica Parker, Franca Sozzani, Linda Evangelista, and Suzy Menkes at a pre-show fête.

Daphne Brought the Drama: All eyes were on the runway, but Daphne Guinness’ front-row look attracted plenty of attention as well.

Hats Off : Is Lady Gaga mad for the Mad Hatter? The milliner was seen whispering to the singer in the front row this week—rumor has it he’s trying to woo her into becoming the next face of his collection.

All Ears: Blogger Bryan Boy made his appearance on the party circuit, wearing an eye-catching ensemble that rivaled the Christie Digital Micro Tiles that lit up the Barneys New York windows. Talk about electric!

You’ve Got Mail: Front-row VIPs attached to their mobile devices, stayed up-to-date on fashion coverage courtesy of AOL.

Cat Walking : The Cheshire Cat was all smiles when—as a newcomer to the shows—he was seated alongside fashion nobility including Carine Roitfeld and Naomi Campbell.

Blind Item: Which major editor almost didn’t make the runway spectacular? The fashion fixture thanked her lucky stars when Air France was able to whisk her across the Atlantic at the last moment….

Holidays 2012 – The very best of the runways: the walks, the models, and the designs that stole the shows.

Lanvin: It was like a dream come true when model Minnie Mouse took the stage in a bold, ruffled creation by Lanvin. Designer Alber Elbaz dressed his muse in a feminine yet vibrant hue—and the result was a look that was well suited for a modern woman who looks amazing without even trying. Her style resonates with an energy that is chic and young, in a sheath that is stunningly well crafted.

Dolce & GabBana: Looking lovely in lace, Daisy Duck wore the lynchpin design at the Dolce & Gabbana show. Inspired by Sicilian style, the designers did it their own way, resulting in looks that were equal parts elegance and ease. The duo creates clothing that is appealing without trying too hard. Though with little effort, Ms. Duck’s matching lace bow may end up being the look of the season.

Balmain: Structured and striking: In a mix of textures like leather and lacing with tough biker boots, Balmain model Goofy looked polished and sleek. He embodied the mood of the entire showing— sophisticated, cool, and strongly masculine. Highlighting the remarkable workmanship that Olivier Rousteing applies to his craft— including intricate weaving and dazzling crystal beading—the show left us wanting more.

Rick Owens: The facts were as clear as black and white when Cruella de Vil walked on Rick Owens’ runway: The dress was a resounding success. Mirroring Owen’s modern sensibility, the look struck the balance that the designer has become known for. The showing was bold and innovative—right down to the sleek look of de Vil’s black and white hair.

Balenc iaga: The buzz on the Balenciaga catwalk reached a fever pitch when model Mickey Mouse opened the show and set the collection’s tone: Accessible high chic. Showing his strength in menswear, designer Nicolas Ghesquière— who was seen backstage just moments before prepping Mickey himself—has created aseries of on-trend looks that go straight from the catwalk to the sidewalk.

Proenza Schouler: Tiana was the perfect model to walk for Proenza Schouler. Known for their youthful sensibilities, the team offered looks that were adventurous and remarkable, just like the princess herself. Designers Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough continue astyle evolution that keeps the brand looking its best at every turn—relevant, buzz-worthy, and brilliantly crafted. It looks like Tiana has found her princes.

NINA RICCI: Wherever that wicked Queen is now, she’s certainly incensed—because on Nina Ricci’s runway, Snow White was everyone’s favorite. Our favorite of the offerings, Ms. White’s apple patterned dress was spunky and sweet. It was an example of the designer capturing the spirit of the model herself—completely feminine, fun and a little bit feisty.