Call it the comeback season. If last season was all about pared down parties, low-key presentations and keeping the celebs at bay, spring/summer 10, is proving to be just the opposite.

Just last night, fashion A-listers were torn between two high profile parties: Alexander Wang’s post-show soiree and the opening of the Boom Boom Room at The Standard hotel (a.k.a. fashion central), where none other than Madonna was tipped to attend.

We can’t speak for The Standard, where Madge and Jesus were in attendance, but Alex Wang’s after-show party is bound to be remembered for a while to come. For the occasion, the designer commandeered a West Side petrol station where guests, including Mischa Barton, Lily Donaldson, Pixie Geldof and Jared Leto, were on hand to raid the confectionery aisle and beer fridges.

But for all its downtown glam, the event's highlight came when Courtney Love took to the stage. It was a blast of the familiar old Hole-era Courtney – all attitude and cigarettes – as she crooned several old hits. It was essential New York fashion week – rowdy, overcrowded, glamorous and totally unpredictable. It will be interesting to see how the Marc Jacobs/Lady GaGa extravaganza tomorrow night compares.

Courtney Love performs at the Alexander Wang after party (above) and revellers at the gas station (below).