Designers are having a red-letter Fashion Week, as labels from Altuzarra to Zero + Maria Cornejo have included the fiery hue in their Fall 2011 collections. (Perhaps they were inspired by last year's Givenchy and Céline runways?)

This desire to paint the town red is nothing new to Valentino, who has dressed women in scarlet for four decades. "Women usually prefer to wear black at events because it makes them feel safe, however, if there's one woman wearing red, she will inevitably be the eye-catcher of the evening," the couturier said. "It's as though the room is suddenly illuminated -- simply perfect for a grand entrance."

These designs straight from the Fall 2011 runways prove his theory.

Peruse the looks from the Heart Truth Red Dress show, which kicked off Fashion Week... in red.

Also, don't forget to check out our live interview with celebrity stylist June Ambrose in the AOL media lounge about her irrepressible take on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. And check out that hat!