Add Monique Lhuillier (at the finale of her Spring '09 show, at right) and Naeem Khan to the list of prominent designers opting to skip out on New York fashion week this February.

Designers like Vera Wang, Betsey Johnson and Temperley bowed out before the New Year, perhaps sparking a welcome trend for up-and-comers hoping to save the significant expense of showing at Bryant Park, an expense that can easily surpass the six-figure mark.

Lhuillier and Khan, who share a publicist, indicate that an intimate presentation as opposed to a traditional runway show is an appealing alternative for buyers and press with Energizer bunny-like schedules come early February.

Instead of a blur down the catwalk, guests will have a couple of hours during which to examine the clothes, talk to the designers and maybe even finish a whole glass of champagne.

[via WSJ]