Nothing beats Sherri Hill’s New York Fashion Week runway shows. This year, the event was taken to the next level with an extravagant display of the collection at Cipriani, a luxury event space. Before the show began, I had the opportunity to walk the red carpet among celebrity guests including Bella Thorne, Dani Thorne, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, Chevel Shepherd, Paige Hyland, Blake Gray, Catriona Gray, Sarah Rose Summers, and Tinkerbelle the Dog.

Considering the stunning silhouettes and overall glam factor in the newest collection, Hill outdid herself once again. Noticeable trends showcased in the line included fringe, bows, feathers, animal prints, neons, pastels, metallics, and velvet. Additionally, Hill featured “chinoiserie” dresses adorned with custom patterns inspired by China plates.

The runway was extremely different than usual, with rapper “Rich the Kid” dancing and interacting with the models as they strut down the catwalk. It seemed as if Hill had truly aimed to modernize both her show and collection, with fresh additions to the line such as sequin dollar bill embellishments and a bolero jacket. Although her signature elegant gowns were showcased (a copper, feathered one was a particular knockout), the overall vibe of the show seemed to shift significantly to cater to a contemporary audience.

Another fresh addition was Halima Aden, a fashion model and activist who opened the evening gown portion of the show in a hijab. After the runway, the one-of-a-kind dress Aden wore was made available to win in a sweepstakes, with each five-dollar donation to UNICEF USA’s CrowdRise campaign equaling one entry. Aden empowered the crowd as she made her way down the catwalk, while many of Hill’s model alumni (Scarlett Leithold; Daniela Braga) sparkled and stunned as well.

The audience seemed more engaged in this year’s show, not only due to Rich the Kid’s upbeat tunes, but because Hill’s newest designs left each onlooker on the edge of his/her seat. The designer ultimately proves that one should not be afraid to reinvent oneself—a little change may just help you sparkle even greater.