The Academy of Art Graduation Fashion Show last Thursday kicked off what we affectionately refered to as "San Francisco Fashion Week(end)", with AAU, California College of the Arts and Walter Van Beirendonck showing over the course of 4 days.

Well, this year's show definitely didn't disappoint, featuring 16 cutting-edge collections (and not just by student standards, mind you) in a NYFW-esque tent on Brannan. After furiously scribbling, oohing, ahhing and whispering about why all the models (with the exception of some amazing sky-high wooden platforms) were wearing flats, we leave you with seven highlights from the always impressive show:

1. Andrew Wedge's structured ombre hair jacket: Though he found inspiration in great white shark attacks, we think he could easily coin the term 'yeti chic' with this amazing statement piece.

2. Amelia Statler's layered lace dresses: We fully intend on taking styling tips from the gorgeous vintage-inspired collection, especially this monochromatic lace dress-on-lace tights look.
3. Ronnie Omar Nery's use of soft, luxe fabrics in eye-popping hues and bold shapes: The juxtaposition looked not only fresh but insanely cozy.
4. Young Ae Koo's optical illusion prints: The knitwear design student tamed mesmerizing Magic Eye prints with geek chic classics like starched button-downs, thick frames and patent leather brogues.
5. Yuzuan Cheng's deconstructed menswear: Cheng set the tone for the night with a thoughtful yet playful David Byrne/Bowie-inspired collection.
6. Rinat Brodach's latex lace: This standout sheer piece printed with a black lace graphic is a refreshingly unexpected take on the lingerie trend.

7. Last but not least, a firsthand look at Suzy Menkes' (Humberto Leon, Carol Lim, Walter Van Beirendonck, etc.) reactions as models strutted down the runway.