Yeah, so, I didn't make it to New York for FW '22, but that's not stopping me from enjoying my favorite week of the year.
Once again my favorite week of the year has come and gone, New York Fashion Week. Sadly, I could not make it there for this season, but, of course, I kept up with all the show coverage from the comfort of home. Even from miles away I didn't want to miss a single moment. Seriously though, I think this is the most glued to my phone I have ever been! Not only did I do my best to watch every show and presentation, but I also watched every NYFW related TikTok and liked every fashion week post that came up on my Instagram feed. Basically, I gave myself the front row seat experience, but a digital one at that.
For Fall/ Winter '22 designers still either chose to present in person or virtually due to Covid concerns. This didn't stop any in person shows from being anything less than spectacular, nor did it stop any virtual presentations from being both creative and entertaining. Since I refused to miss a single moment or whole collection for that matter, I thought I would once again discuss some of my favorites.
Bronx and Banco
Whoever came up with the phrase, "less is more" was "seriously disturbed" as our queen Elle Woods would say. In fact ,for their F/W '22 Ready-to-Wear collection, Bronx and Banco set out to prove just the opposite, more is more! According to WWD this gorgeous, over-the-top collection was inspired by late Parisian nights. It is matched with 80's glamour. Considering I've built a whole personal brand around being #Extra, it's safe to say that the entire collection was up by alley. I loved all the rhinestones, sequins, bows, and feminine details, and could imagine myself walking through the streets of Paris in just about any of the pieces (Though that pink, sparkly, blazer short set was obviously a favorite.)
Photos: Vogue Runway, Bronx and Banco
Additional information: WWD, Designer Inspirations
Christian Cowan
Christian Cowan took glamour to a whole other level when he presented the highest of fashion shows for his FW '22 collection. Seriously, it was on the top floor of One World Observatory which is over 100 stories up. Known for designing for the party girl, this season Cowan wanted to design for the "Gala Girl". According to Vogue Runway, he wanted to combine the attitude of Gen Z with 80's glamour and Old Hollywood. I say he succeeded. I loved all the sequin dresses and feathers! This collection made me wish I was in New York again mingling at a party or two (or I guess a gala). While I was obsessed with the finale piece, a black gown with a cutout and rhinestone details, what I really want to get my hands on is one of the NY hearts me tees. You know, so when I finally go back to the city I can wear it in a super cliche Instagram post.
Photos and Additional Information: Vogue Runway, Christian Cowan
Jason Wu
There was something so beautiful about the fashion in the 1950's. Designer Jason Wu would agree as his inspiration for his F/W '22 RTW collection came from the fashion illustrations of this decade. The collection really stayed true to the glamour of that era, but had some modern twists such as puffer coats and crop tops. from an aspiring producer's perspective, I loved the set. There were a few large columns in the center of the runway covered in flowers from the same color palette as the collection. I also loved how the models walked in a figure eight patterns verses just straight up and down the runway because it made it more interesting and you saw the pieces at every possible angle. I could truly imagine myself wearing every single piece from this collection because it basically screams modern day Audrey Hepburn.
Photos and Additional Information: Vogue Runway, Jason Wu
Michael Kors
I will always be here for a fashion show that is also a concert, so when I saw Miguel was performing for the Michael Kors F/W '22 RTW show, I was already sold. Also if Blake Lively is sitting front row, I know it is a must see collection! For this collection Kors told Vogue Runway that he wanted to put the pandemic behind him and give his clients a good time, and give his clients a good time. I believe he did just that. He brought glamour to elegant pieces that gave an overall wow factor. Truly, I don't think there was a single piece I disliked. I was living for all the faux fur coats and sequin dresses. Kors stated that the clutch coats were inspired by Marilyn Monroe and he absolutely nailed that Old Hollywood glamour. I would love to go see a Broadway so or go to an expensive dinner in any of these pieces because I would feel my most fabulous.
Photos and Additional Information: Vogue Runway, Michael Kors
Watch it Here: YouTube, Michael Kors
Tory Burch
It's no secret that New York women each have mastered their sense of style in a way that is truly unique and true to the individual. This is what Tory Burch was inspired by when creating her collection for F/W '22. According to Vogue Runway Burch wanted to give women a toolbox to express themselves and be true to their own personality. This was apparent as models strutted down the runway wearing chic coats, sporty jackets, and unique yet flattering silhouettes. There was truly a piece for every woman. I also loved how much the set reflected this idea. The show was in the evening making for a darker setting while the red lights from the New Yorker hotel reflected across the runway. As the women walked across a spotlight followed them putting the focus on the New York woman. this entire collection made me want to buy a one way ticket back to the city and leave my own mark on NYC!
Photos and Additional Information: Vogue Runway, Tory Burch
Watch It Here: YouTube, Tory Burch
Carolina Herrera
When I first imagined and maybe over-glamorized what my life would look like in NYC, the clothing looked a lot like the Carolina Herrera F/W '22 collection. Beautiful, glamorous, and perfect for celebrating any occasion. Seriously, this entire collection looks like it was made for Blair Waldorf and Serena van der Woodsen. Apparently, that was Wes Gordon's intention, pieces to celebrate in. The entire collection is playful and even a little whimsical. While Herrera herself was known for designing more so for the ladies who lunch, it's obvious that Gordon is aiming towards a younger audience. I would say he succeeded because I'm dying to get my hands on that black corset jumpsuit, and if I ever get invited to a gala that pink tulle dress is what I would want to wear!
Photos and Additional Information: Vogue Runway, Carolina Herrera
Watch It Here: YouTube, Carolina Herrera
Oscar de la Renta
For their F/W '22 RTW collection, Oscar de la Renta opted for a digital presentation, and it did not disappoint. They showcased their collection of fabulous party outfits through women going from working in the office to going to an exclusive party at the "Boom Boom Room". They danced around to "Gimme More" by Britney Spears and Tan France made a hilarious cameo. Head designer Fernando Garcia was obviously targeting a younger audience after gaining popularity with Gen Z and Millennial by dressing Billie Ellish. Like many designers he recognized that this age group is longing to go out after nearly two years of Covid restrictions keeping the collection colorful and fun. Garcia also used a lot of floral print to represent both the Birth of Venus painting and the flowers they passed around to friends during Covid. I, for one, was obsessed with every piece. The red rose dress in particular I would love to wear on a night out or even just to watch The Bachelor with my friends. Truly, this collection made me excited to go out with my friends again, and maybe one day I'll be doing so in Oscar de la Renta!
Photos, Presentation, and Additional Information: Vogue Runway, Oscar de la Renta
More Designers to Check Out!
As I mentioned, I am only sharing my favorites, but these designers are brilliant and worth checking out!
Brandon Maxwell
He dedicated this show to his grandmother, recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's, who inspired his dream to design. The collection includes lots of gorgeous satin and antique jewelry which was equal parts beautiful and comforting!
Watch It Here: YouTube, Brandon Maxwell
Megan Renee
This designer from Making the Cut has a gorgeous collection full of feminine silhouettes and fun, bold patterns. Along with her digital presentation she was featured in the Black in Fashion showroom which NYFW guests could shop at throughout the week.
Watch It Here: NYFW, Megan Renee
Fovari
I love when designers draw their inspiration from dance and this dance does so beautifully. You watch for the stunning, embellished pieces, but stay for the talented ballet dancers.
Watch It Here: NYFW, Fovari
Sergio Hudson
If you love bright, bold colors and sleek silhouettes this is the collection for you! Personally, I find that every single blazer in this collection is simply a need.
Watch It Here: NYFW, Sergio Hudson
Christian Siriano
I'd be lying if I said that this collection was one of my favorites of his, but the model standoff between Coco Rocha and Karen Elson is a must see moment. Also, many of his pieces are stunning as usual.
Watch It Here: YouTube, Christian Siriano
Obviously, I thought NYFW F/W '22 was amazing. Designers created many different collections all worth celebrating the moment. Truly, after watching I just wanted to get dressed up myself and go out with my friends. One thing that I did find disappointing was that there was less access to watch the shows in full. One of the aspects of this digital age of fashion is how accessible for audiences around the world, but it does feel like Fashion has taken a step backwards to exclusivity. But regardless, plenty of designers made their collections available for a large audience to enjoy. You can enjoy and sit in your own digital front row at the links below;
XOXO,
Kristin
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