Karine Laudort New York Fashion Week is the event we have all been waiting for. One that showcases many designers upcoming collections for Autumn and Winter but also brings many famous faces to observe and honour the designers. With numerous unique designers and their collections, we got to see loads of impressive pieces from fitted floor-length frocks to unpretentious suits, that took the catwalk by storm.
Art Hearts Fashion
Art Hearts Fashion held multiple catwalk shows to showcase upcoming designers and their work. With over 20 global designers that had attended, the shows combined style and fine art which was definitely eyecatching, to say the least. With many of the designers coming from Latinx heritage, the Art Hearts show created a safe space for those not well represented in the community, to unveil their works to the wider audience. Their show ran over 4 days- February 10th to February 13th.
Chrystel Anne
On Saturday, one emerging designer, Chrystel Anne, showcased her collection of jaw-dropping, sustainable gowns and ready-to-wear pieces. This collection was titled “Feel”, as it was built around the emotion felt throughout lockdown.
” I tried to incorporate movement, fabric manipulation and embellishments made by hand throughout the collection”
Chrystel Anne on her AW 2022 collection “Feel”
In this collection, we saw high-low dresses with darker, more tonal colours that represent the guilt and confusion felt within the hard months of the pandemic, as well as more uplifting pastel colours combined with draped embellishments and extravagant features.
The display signifies finding the light in such unprecedented times; Where many were feeling trapped and alone, there is always something brighter on the other side. There were some bridal pieces that she showcased, which were structured and unconventional to the typical wedding dresses we see; One of the many reasons why Fashion Week is eminent to this day.
Asta Razma
Later that night, we saw emerging designer, Asta Razma’s striking collection which was a powerful combination of both pop culture and artistic symbolism.
We saw quirky bodysuits combined with high-leg boots, and bomber jackets with the words “What’s your budget” on the back- Asta Ramza had one goal for this collection and it was to combine avant-garde style with esoteric symbolism. There were striking colours throughout and fierce bodices with flamboyant embellishments that reveal a deeper meaning.
(To Right) Gamze took the catwalk wearing a black lace corset with diamonte dollar signs and dollar bills sewn to the front and a short leather skirt whilst holding deviant chains; Symbolizing the shackles restricting those in the industry and how it all revolves around one thing, money.
Sabine Arias
Brazilian designer, Sabine Arias is ready to showcase her collection titled “Eternal Love – Great Gatsby.” This autumn/winter collection exhibits enchanting contemporary pieces that are elegant; Giving a new meaning to sophisticated feminine wear.
Throughout the collection, we saw timeless garments; From tailored trench coats to vibrant maxi dresses that are effortlessly chic, there was a use of a broad spectrum of colour and texture. Arias’ collection gives a new look for the modern-day woman, with a mix of playful crochet dresses and sleek tartan pantsuits.
Whilst some pieces are more daring, there is also a remarkable blend of more understated, conservative looks that are perfect for work and day-to-day.
This collection is due to be showcased on Tuesday, March 1st
Prabal Gurung
Next up, Nepalese designer, Prabal Gurung took to the catwalk with his cutting edge collection, complete with a vibrant colour palette and diverse fabrics. The catwalk was stormed with jubilant and funky looks that were refreshing for us to see – There was a combination of fierce animal printed coordinates and gaudy fur jackets, paired with flowing tie-dye style trousers.
Despite Gurung’s quirkier fits, there was a balance with more dependable yet daring pieces that hit the catwalk. We saw Precious Lee strut wearing a shapely sequined trouser co-ord and Anjali Lamar, the first Nepali transgender model, sporting a duffle coat and satin dress, inspired by Nepali kurtas.
Leaning towards a more sustainable approach, Gurung stated that he used recycled wool to create his elaborate fur jackets and even though it isn’t entirely environmentally friendly, it is still a step in the right direction.
LaPointe
Next, Sally LaPointe blessed the runway with her collection of alluring silk pantsuits, high slit dresses and striking yellow denim coordinates. As a whole, the collection was embedded with luxurious gorgeous tonal colours alleviated with vivid pops of colour.
Throughout the show, we saw more sultry, sexy tones and LaPointe’s signature pops of refined colour throughout. The way the brand uses colour is something that makes the shows significant from the rest; With the catwalk colour coordinated, it was also immensely satisfying to take in.
The collection featured acid-washed denim, ribbed knits with ostrich feathers on the collar, figure-hugging satin frocks and mahogany floor-length leather trench coats paired with matching oversized trousers.
Tory Burch
Known for their captivating use of daring colours and classic athleisure clothing, Tory Burch unveiled their collection of classy, layered statement trench coats and cultivated geometric frocks. Despite Burch’s typical sportswear she is known for, we saw a range of everyday looks, perfect for regular outings or occasions.
The collection titled “Autumnal” revealed layered boucle coats with accentuated shoulders, silk wrap-around tops paired with long pleated skirts and classic argyle sweaters with form-fitting trousers. Overall, the collection was very wearable with gorgeous stand out pieces like the sequined fishnet dress and high-neck quarter-zip maxi dresses with asymmetrical prints.
Burch’s signature use of monochromatic colour was still present, with one of the models sporting an off-shoulder pinstriped top paired with black and brown striped trousers. With a remarkable blend of geometric prints, vivid hues and embroidered garments, Tory Burch’s show was debuting fabulous new trends for the colder season.
LaQuan Smith
A firm favourite of Beyonce, Lady Gaga and Rihanna, LaQuan Smith blessed the runway with his debut collection. This season, Smith wanted to up the sex appeal for his clothes in spite of the comfort many have gained wearing loungewear throughout lockdown. In his debut, we saw Smith’s vision for the modern woman in this provocative world.
The colour palette used were neutral shades paired with vivid blues, feriocous reds and slightly more solemn greens. We saw Smiths vision come to life with many of the pieces super revealing low v necks and dresses with cut outs, exposing hip bones and thighs. The whole collection was scandalous, giving a whole new meaning to austere but glamourous.
Unlike many other designers that prefer the conceal and reveal approach, Smith is working towards the future of raunchy garments and less is more. Smith hoped for this collection to bring women to celebrate- Whatever it is. With sexy silhouetted dresses covered up with oversized suede double breasted trench coats, you can see from first glance that Smiths vision for womenswear is versatile and coveted.
Michael Kors
Michael Kors’ A/W show was all about causing a scene as the collection revealed a multitude of classic winter trends with a twist. Renowned for his mark on the fashion industry with extraordinary accessories and ready-to-wear clothing, the runway got to see the vision Kors has for winter season this year.
This collection unveiled some wearable day-to-day outfits, with a more concealed approach. We saw high neck tops, low breasted coats cinched with a belt around the waist and long-sleeve v neck knit dresses. Despite this, we also got the chance to see Kor’s more scandalous fits with one sleeve sequined dresses exposing the mid riff and halterneck pantsuits paired with a huge off the shoulder fur jacket.
As a whole, we saw conservative daytime looks that take strong personalities to pull them off and then ravishing occasionwear that was giving the breath of fresh air we needed. Very monochromatic but with bright bursts of colour, the runway show gave us muted, sophisticated outfits as well as eye-catching, more sultry looks perfect for date night and going out in town.
New York Fashion Week is the time for favourited fashion designers and the emerging within the industry, to showcase their collections to the world. We get to witness history in the making; With many new trends and styles to deliver, no wonder the event is so important to celebrities and those within the industry. Not only that but it is a great opportunity to bring everyone together with one common denominator, Fashion.
