While most people aren’t thinking about the spring and summer in September, the fashion world is. From Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, through Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, America’s biggest fashion houses presented their Spring/Summer collections in New York City. New York Fashion Week (NYFW) is the first of the four major showings (Paris, London and Milan). NYFW is giving the world a first look at what’s to come for 2024 fashion.
New year, New York
The first NYFW was in 1943, thus making this year their 80th anniversary. Eleanor Lambert created NYFW as a response to designers not being able to travel to Paris, because of the Second World War, and to shed light on American fashion innovation. In order to be a part of NYFW, The Council of Fashion Designers of America must accredit designers. Although not as prestigious as the other three major fashion weeks, NYFW is still a massive pillar in the industry, particularly for historically American houses.
Siriano goes sultry
Christian Siriano, known for his marriage of masculine and feminine techniques, displayed a sexy yet sophisticated collection of 61 looks. The men wore lace and corseted garments, while some of the women donned blazer-inspired gowns. The showing began with mostly black fabric choices, which transitioned to light pink hues and vibrant gold shimmers. One of the most memorable looks was this rose gold jumper with a ruffled shall. People can always count on a Siriano show having an over-the-top look where “more is more.”
Smith leaves nothing to the imagination
LaQuan Smith previewed a provocative sheer and metallic line. Having dressed Beyoncé in several custom looks this summer, a lackluster collection wasn’t something that was on the NYFW bingo card. The 34-look showing utilized masterful draping of mesh chaining to contrast the structure of several alligator skin designs. Smith ditched the bras and pasties, exposing the models’ chests. He did so under vibrant fabric color choices of teals, purples and silvers. For example, he paired this shoulder-padded reptilian suit jacket with a high-waisted 70s-style panty, and many argued it was one of the best looks of the night.
What’s more American than denim?
One of the country’s oldest fashion houses, Ralph Lauren, showed an ornately patterned and fabricated collection with denim influences. The brand put on a masterclass in tailoring through the runway, especially in the first half. As the show went on, they prioritized more flowing and organic silhouettes. Lauren transitioned from muted denim colors to bold and unmistakable jewel tones throughout the show. However, the back half of the show did toe the line of costume-y. Nonetheless, this was still one of the most favored shows of the week.
Europe is up next
Fashion week will cross the pond in the last few weeks of Sept. for London, Paris and Milan. The fashion world awaits the showings of top brands such as Versace, Prada and Fendi and what they’ll present to the runways of Europe.
