What: Porter Grey showed their small but versatile Fall 2011 collection today at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.

What they say: Sisters Alexandra and Kristen O’Neill say their collection is built on versatile foundation pieces, boasting beautiful garments infused with an urbane elegance and relaxed sophistication. They’re goal is to create a fresh, crisp and classic take on the quintessential modern American girl.

What we say: Porter Grey’s Fall 2011 designs took hipsters from the runway to the subway in chic, minimalistic looks. Easy florals, military-style button details, wedge ankle boots and double breasted coats were the stars of the collection, perfect for the Urban Outfitters set.

The collection featured only a handful of pieces, but each could be mixed and matched with other looks from the collection. The downside: while the collection makes it easy to pull a wardrobe together with a few simple outfits, it’s not a wardrobe every girl would want. As with most minimalistic designs, femininity is sacrificed for simplicity. Soft fabrics, curve-hugging dresses and leg-lengthening heels were not on the minds of the O’Neill sisters. The collection wasn’t sexy. Nevertheless, it was beautiful.

While the Beverly Hills crowd wouldn’t be wowed by the looks, those who dress for fashion and function will love the wearable, workable jackets, dresses and pants. Just two or three pieces from this collection could be the foundation for dozens of great outfits. Simple. Classic. Chic. Kudos to Porter Grey for making it so easy to be a fashionista.

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