“For God’s sake, burn it down!” began the song that kicked off Karen Walker’s show, and the exuberant rock music was a nice change from the usual electronic trance music that accompanies runway shows. In fact, Walker’s collection, according to the program, was inspired by northern England’s “soul dance scene,” where working-class youths danced all night on their weekends.

Long gauzy grey dresses with pretty pink floral wallpaper patterns contrasted with nerd-girl white socks worn with heavy brogues. Outerwear consisted of docker’s coats with lace-up boots that referenced workingmen (except with a heel). Every girl wore a charcoal knit hat, giving them a tomboyish look.

Even if the average consumer doesn’t know all of Walker’s references, they’ll still see a wearable collection of flowy belted dresses and sporty separates, like wide-legged trousers and striped knit tops.