Tadashi Shoji Takes Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week 2012 to Another Era

In the middle of Manhattan, Fashion Week guests felt like they had been swept away to another time and place. They entered Shanghai in the 1930s, surrounded by Chantilly lace, chiffon, high necks, cap sleeves, tiers, velvet and embroidery. Shoji's stunning myriad of luxurious pieces seemed never-ending.

The palette for the Fall 2012 collection was drenched in jewel tones like marina and seagrass, balanced by soft colors of ginseng and hazel.

Shoji told me he is normally inspired by architecture and nature, but this time his vision was based on Marlene Dietrich in the 1932 film "Shanghai Express" and the golden age of Shanghai cinema, leaving the models with a bright red pout.

The simple, yet elegant look, left a mark on those watching the show, but it made things a little harder on the hair and makeup staff backstage. Models wore their hair in sleek loops by Rodeny Cutler.

Tadashi Shoji is a bona fide genius. Born and raised in Sendai, Japan, he began painting and drawing at a young age. His artistic talent blossomed and he eventually transitioned from fine art to high fashion. The fashion house Tadashi Shoji was established in 1982 and the rest is history.

While Shoji's dresses always impress the masses, at the end of the day it's his business and livelihood.

His designs have caught the eye of Hollywood A-listers including Katy Perry, Kelly Osbourne, Blake Lively, Beyoncé and Helen Mirren.

Shoji's Fall 2012 collection was the perfect way to kick off Fashion Week. But the huge event takes its toll on everyone fighting to make sure the show goes off without a hitch.

Stay tuned to catch more footage live on the floor with IBTimes TV at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.