While New York Fashion Week ground to a halt a decade ago in respect to the tragic 9/11 attacks, the shows went ahead over the weekend amidst moments of reflection and remembrance.

Victoria Beckham’s spring 2012 preview, which was held inside New York Public Library, the show was stopped twice as guest were about to take their seats for moments of silence–one for each tower–as the designer requested.

Bryant Park, where many New York Fashion Week shows were held in previous years, honors those who died in the attacks with 2,753 empty chairs.

Meanwhile in Lincoln Center, where this year’s Fashion Week events were held, there is a conflicting mood on the tragedy’s anniversary.

“Today is a day that is very exciting, but there is also a certain calmness, you know? Everyone can sort of just look at each other and know exactly what each other is thinking,” said Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, Lincoln Center’s fashion director.

Several fashion designers, editors, and retailers reflected on the events. Oscar de la Renta said he watched the anniversary event on TV before heading to the tents. “I was in tears. But I say this country is about the rebirth, all over again.”

Linda Fargo, senior vice president of fashion at Bergdorf Goodman, wore a patriotic combination of blue blouse and red trousers as she sat front row on the Beckham show. “I didn’t expect to be so emotional today, but I am.”

Designers have also made donations to various organizations to commemorate the event, like Derek Lam to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum and Donna Karan to Action America.

“We remember that day 10 years ago that changed our city forever,” Karan said. “We remember the courage, the inspiration, the compassion. How we came together, reaffirming our strength to the world. There truly is no place anywhere like our beloved city, New York. Our inspiration.”

Source: Associated Press