Karen Walker a hit in the Big Apple

Two of the looks Karen Walker showcased at New York Fashion Week.

Karen Walker has cemented her popularity in New York, wowing the crowds with her debut show at the city's Fashion Week.

Fashion critics praised the designer's spring/summer 2007 collection which was shown to more than 500 guests, including editors from American Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Nylon, Interview and the New York Times in Manhattan on Saturday night.

Walker's "Victory Garden" collection - inspired by the British land girls of World War II - featured floral prints, puff sleeves and baggy pants, reminiscent of the 40s, as well as neon nylon parkas.

Walker, whose range is stocked in more than 130 stores worldwide, has shown at London Fashion Week for the past four years but jumped the pond this season "for a change".

The designer says growing recognition and support for her range in the Big Apple encouraged her to hold her debut show. The timing means she cannot present a full show at Air New Zealand Fashion Week, which begins on Monday. Instead she is launching her new eyewear range.