Oscar de la Renta unveiled a selection of ball gowns during New York Fashion Week

With the Academy Awards just over a week away, it seems fitting that Oscar de la Renta has unveiled a collection of gowns so opulent, they are an obvious choice for the red carpet.

Models showcased strapless gowns in sugar-candy pink, teal and shades of blue, with layers of tulle and organza so big, they could barely fit on the runway.
The look was offset with dramatic jewelery and a lady-like diamante and satin headband.

The opulent dresses will no doubt turn up on the red carpets

The collection this season appealed to a younger - albeit just as wealthy - audience

Despite turning 80 this year, Oscar's 2012 fall collection appeared to appeal to a younger - albeit just as wealthy - clientele.

A prom dress, topped off with a diamond tiara wouldn't look out of place on an episode of Gossip Girl.
Black booties, fishnet stockings and chunky knits lent a hard edge to the ultra feminine collection.

The icy shade is this season's hottest trend

Fishnet stockings added a modern edge to ultra-feminine prom dresses

But there was plenty in the way of ladies-who-lunch.

Tweed suits, classic shift dresses and jewel-prints will appeal to the Park Avenue set - loyal fans of the designer.
Inspired by the 1960's trend currently sweeping the catwalk, models wore their hair in a make-shift bob, back-combed and swept back.

The candy floss shade of pink, pretty lace and jewel-print dresses are part of a growing trend for feminine 50's

The textured dresses slit to the thigh or more demure appealed to all ages

The designer said: 'I used a lot of colours you would not associate with winter colours but today's woman doesn't dress for seasons.'
In attendance was U.S Vogue editrice Anna Wintour, actress Minka Kelly, tennis player Maria Sharapova and stylist Rachel Zoe.
Wintour, an avid tennis fan, posed with Sharapova, who towered over her in heels and a hat.

Oscar's signature lady-like glamour featured in classic suits and tweed dresses

Oscar de la Renta turns eighty this year...but shows no sign of slowing down

Models showing more of Oscar's collections

Stylist Rachel Zoe and actress Minka Kelly turned out to support the designer

U.S Vogue editor Anna Wintour, an avid tennis fan, with player Maria Sharapova