New York Fashion Week is back, and it’s giving us everything we want from bold statements to a mix of high fashion and real-world politics. Willy Chavarria and Alaïa by Pieter Mulier took center stage, along with a few other standout shows, proving yet again that the Big Apple is a fashion powerhouse.
WILLY CHAVARRIA: A POLITICAL LOVE LETTER TO AMÉRICA
Willy Chavarria isn’t here to play; he’s here to speak truth to power. Staging his show in a disused bank on Wall Street (of all places!), Chavarria delivered a politically charged, unapologetically bold collection. With copies of the U.S. Constitution on every seat and mariachi music opening the show, the message was loud and clear: this was fashion with purpose.
The collection, named “América” (with the Spanish accent), was a beautiful tribute to BIPOC culture, blending Latino influences with classic Americana. Think aviator jackets, tailored pants, and oversized blazers with a rebellious edge. And let’s not forget the stunning Adidas collaboration, which brought a fresh, sporty coolness to the mix.
Chavarria himself, in a sleeveless ACLU sweatshirt, closed the show with an emotional walk, surrounded by his models, under a giant American flag. It was a perfect fusion of activism and fashion, leaving everyone with goosebumps.
ALAÏA AT THE GUGGENHEIM: FASHION MEETS ART
Meanwhile, uptown at the Guggenheim, Pieter Mulier brought the drama for Alaïa. This was the first-ever fashion show held in the legendary museum, and Mulier made it count. Inspired by the building’s signature circular forms, Mulier took Alaïa’s classic obsession with structure and draping to new heights.
With Rihanna making a surprise appearance in a white bodysuit and metallic stole (because why not?), the show started late but was worth every minute of the wait. Mulier played with proportions, offering up tennis skirts paired with micro tops, flowing sarouel pants, and flamenco-inspired dresses. The collection was elegant, risk-taking, and undeniably Alaïa, all while staying true to the house’s DNA.
MONSE: MICHELLE OBAMA-APPROVED FASHION
The Monse duo, Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, are riding high after dressing Michelle Obama last month, and their New York Fashion Week collection proved they’re still on fire. In the trendy Meatpacking District, they presented a mix of military-inspired jackets, sharply tailored blazers, and cheeky deconstructions, like mini-skirts made from inside-out trousers.
Paris Hilton sat front row rocking one of their edgy looks, sending the paparazzi into a frenzy. But while their tailored pieces were a hit, their venture into weekend sportswear felt less exciting. Nonetheless, their shimmering evening gowns brought back the glamour, with Tiffany Haddish closing the show in a stunning green satin suit.
KHAITE: DARK DRAMA WITH A ROCK TWIST
Khaite’s show opened with the dramatic strains of Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain,” setting the mood for a collection that was all about moody glamour. Designer Catherine Holstein, known for her cool, minimalist vibes, pushed her limits this season, delivering tailored blazers and cropped men’s jackets with a powerful punch.
While some of her more floaty, gauzy pieces missed the mark, the structured smokings and elegant outerwear stole the spotlight. Though not Khaite’s most jaw-dropping collection, it still hit the right notes for fans of sleek, wearable fashion.
JONATHAN SIMKHAI: LACES AND LOVE STORIES
Jonathan Simkhai tapped into his personal history this season, drawing inspiration from his mother’s 1970s wedding gown. The result? A soft, romantic collection filled with delicate lace, silky fabrics, and dreamy petal details. Presented on the 100th floor of Hudson Yards’ Edge, the show had a charming, nostalgic feel, despite being literally wrapped in clouds.
This collection embraced femininity, with tones of cream, blush, and black, and silhouettes that ranged from fitted boleros to billowing, flower-strewn gowns. Simkhai’s love for craftsmanship was clear, making this one of the most elegant collections of the day.
SERGIO HUDSON: GLAMOUR, OLD FASHIONEDS, AND JAZZ
Leave it to Sergio Hudson to throw a party this New York Fashion Week. His show was a celebration in every sense, with guests sipping perfectly mixed Old Fashioneds as they watched a parade of glittering looks. Sergio’s collection was all about glitz and sophistication, with bold suits in pinstripes, canary yellow wool, and sparkly tank tops.
Vanessa Webb, Vlada Roslyakova, and Jessica Stam—the legendary models of past eras—strutted down the runway, reminding everyone of Hudson’s glamorous roots. The party vibes continued with a soundtrack of jazz classics, and guests left with chic goodie bags, complete with engraved candles and a bottle of bourbon. Talk about a perfect fashion week souvenir!
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