A fascinating Wall Street Journal story this week brought to Shopperati’s attention that fierce little Christian Siriano’s fashion line is not doing so well. We are alarmed! And flummoxed! He received all manner of shiny happy reviews when he debuted his spring ‘09 collection during Fashion Week recently, plus he won Project Runway last year, plus Victoria Beckham likes him! Does there have to be more?

Apparently, yes. Siriano’s first collection depends on $650 stretch pants and $2,500 dresses for its survival in an economy where people are reconsidering the $4 they spend at Starbucks in the morning. Sigh. A massive economic downturn can be so bothersome for the fashion industry.

So, let’s do our homework. Let’s do our part. Let’s take another look at Siriano’s creations for spring, (a) in case we end up seeing them in the stores after all, and (b) in case we never see them again:

Sleek and sheer: Silver high-waisted, straight-leg pants and a sheer tunic top let a rust-colored cami show through.

Gaucho extraordinaire: Most cowgirls never saw such a thing, but we love the silhouette (photo, above left, from NYmag.com). 

The trademark vertical ruffle:  Astonishing that a 22-year-old designer with his first collection already has a signature look, but this would have to be it. We can almost hear it: “Is that a Siriano?” (Photo, above right, from NYmag.com)

Kentucky Derby, anyone? He has a thing for hats, n’est ce pas? But we have to admit being charmed by the little dress silhouette.

Dreamsicle: What? This isn’t selling? We can see this on the red carpet, right about the time Brangelina is expecting No. 7. (Photo above left, from NYmag.com.)

Electricity: Siriano said he was inspired by the colors of a storm. Perhaps lightning doesn’t strike in the same place twice after all? (Photo, above right, from NYmag.com)