Fashion Week in New York – a week filled with inspiration, stress, joy, and a hectic pace. I found myself in the midst of it all, jumping from runway shows to presentations and from mingling to various events. We want to share the most memorable moments from New York’s vibrant Fashion Week with you.
The season’s first runway show was held by Bevza at Spring Studios, also known as ”The home of nyfw”. Designer Svetlana Bevza from Kyiv took us on a journey back to the 90s with a blend of simple white, classic silhouettes and luxurious loungewear.
The marigold flower took center stage, weaving its magic through fabric prints and footwear. Bevza explained that the marigold represents ”a mother’s love and resurrection”.
At the show, I was impressed not only by the collection but also by the fantastic styles of everyone present. Being there early to observe people’s outfits felt like a true fashion party, and I couldn’t help but take note of styles like this beautiful girl in the blue dress with matching sunglasses and Lizzo’s entrance in a striking body con dress.
CUCCULELLI SHAHEEN
On my way to the next show and the highlight of the season! Cucculelli Shaheen took us on a journey through New York’s rich history and vibrant energy. A tribute to the city and the iconic Audrey Marie Munson, also known as “American Venus.”
The show took place under the arches of the Manhattan Municipal Building, adorned with the gilded statue once posed for by Munson. Amidst style icons and celebrities like Torrey DeVitto, Marina Squerciati, and Yaya DaCosta, my camera was ready to capture every glamorous moment.
Being there felt like being part of Gossip Girl. Young girls dressed in tulle dresses, pink heels, and salon blow-dried hair. Influencer Lexi Wood shone in a transparent black glitter dress with open sides.
The golden light of dusk inspired the presentation, with colors reminiscent of a spring sunset stroll over the Manhattan Bridge. Collection Sixteen, with its artistic blend of intricate embroidery and subversive edge, captured the pulsating energy of the city on the runway. A poetic tribute to Beaux-Arts elegance and the electric atmosphere of NYC.
ULLA JOHNSON
Ulla Johnson’s sensational spring showcase took place at Powerhouse Arts in Brooklyn – a converted tram power station, now an art studio and exhibition space.
It was fascinating to witness fashion enthusiasts struggling to catch a glimpse of the show. During these days, Brooklyn faced severe flooding, with cars submerged underwater. Nevertheless, it didn’t deter fashion-conscious individuals from rushing through the rain to experience the show live.
The presentation itself was an artistic explosion where fashion met painting. Ulla Johnson collaborated with artist Shara Hughes from Brooklyn to create stunning dresses and soft tailored garments.
The collection featured gathered organza dresses, lace and silk dresses, and a pink Lurex jacquard volume dress. Patterns and textures in floral tulle and degrading diamonds enhanced the artistically inspired collection, creating a beautiful symphony of earth tones and electric pastels.
MAISON BLANCHE
One of the most memorable shows was Maison Blanche, which took place at The Box. It was particularly exciting to attend this show because The Box is known for its eclectic atmosphere and unique performances. The show offered a unique fusion of fashion, socio-political themes, and a strong call to action.
The collection celebrated diversity, supported victims of sexual assault through “Tags Against Crime,” and emphasized the role of clothing in justice. Sustainability was highlighted through the collaboration with “Made for a Woman” from Madagascar, while tailoring artistry was showcased with reversed garments and a blend of 20% linen and 80% viscose. Jerseys were transformed with 100% organic cotton, and deconstructed trench coats emerged in water-repellent cotton from Switzerland. The show focused on DNA awareness with Tags Against Crime, and Maison Blanche continues its queer anti-fashion for social change. A memorable evening of inclusivity, sustainability, and awareness.
NAEEM KHAN
Moving on to Naeem Khan’s runway show, held in his breathtaking penthouse in the heart of Manhattan’s fashion district. Inside his showroom, the runway was packed with fashion enthusiasts, buyers, and the ever-present fashion press that initially blocked the models at the beginning of the show. A bit of Fashion Week drama!
Naeem Khan, renowned for dressing powerful women like Michelle Obama and Hollywood celebrities, presented his collection ‘From India With Love,’ celebrating India and featuring traditional Indian silhouettes such as saris and ghararas. Naeem Khan’s new vision embraced a more India-centric approach, incorporating saris, lehengas, and ghararas, as well as Western garments inspired by these traditional silhouettes.
ANNI LIU
Running through rainy New York, I made my way to Anni Liu and her magical presentation. Instead of the usual runway show, she opted for a showcase at the King restaurant in South Village.
We were welcomed to an exclusive cocktail party, brimming with delicious drinks and hors d’oeuvres. However, the real surprise awaited as we entered the main dining room, transformed into an entirely different world where the actual show unfolded.
Anni Liu’s collection was built upon three interconnected narratives, themed around being trapped between worlds: the abduction of Persephone, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and her personal experiences as an Asian American. The presentation captured the moment just before Persephone’s abduction, where she, unaware, peacefully relaxed with her handmaidens in a meadow while the music hinted at impending malevolence.
An added touch of elegance was the pavlova served mid-show, an unexpected element that truly enhanced the experience.
Anni Liu’s clear goal with the collection was to weave together contrasting elements as a tribute to her love for mythology and childhood memories. The result was garments embracing both darkness and light.