Coach, LaQuan Smith, and Cucculelli Shaheen took the stage at New York Fashion Week, showcasing their unique collections that cater to a wide range of fashion enthusiasts. New York, renowned for its cultural diversity, fosters inclusivity within the fashion industry and offers something for everyone.
Coach, a globally recognized leather goods brand, opted for a more intimate approach for its Fall/Winter 2023 collection. Rather than extravagant sets, Creative Director Stuart Vevers chose the elegant Park Avenue Armory with its wood-paneled corridors as the backdrop for the show. Vevers aimed to bring the audience closer to the collection’s fabric textures and figure-hugging pieces. With a touch of 90s New York nostalgia, the collection featured leather jackets, shearlings, denim, and bias-cut dresses. Notably, the collection embraced gender fluidity, showcasing mirror-image looks on both male and female models.
On the other hand, LaQuan Smith drew inspiration from the indulgence and glamour of the Eighties. The Rainbow Room in Manhattan set the stage for his collection, which made a captivating entrance on a grand double staircase. Smith’s designs targeted empowered working women, with tailored options in satins, wool suiting, and flannels. Signature body cutouts and dramatic-shouldered toppers further enhanced the collection’s allure. Smith even introduced several men’s looks, tapping into the nostalgia of the iconic Saturday Night Fever era.
Anthony Cucculelli and Anna Rose Shaheen, a talented husband and wife designing team, brought an air of sophistication to the runway with their crystal-beaded, sequined, and paillette-heavy gowns. Since establishing their brand in 2016, they have redefined evening wear for a new generation. Their collection showcased intricate embroidery and craftsmanship, revolving around a sunburst theme with celestial motifs. Personalized constellation dresses, tailored according to the wearer’s zodiac sign, remain a highlight of Cucculelli Shaheen’s repertoire.
In complementing the outstanding designs, live performances added an extra layer of excitement to the shows. Coach enlisted Breanna Barbara and her band, creating a vibrant atmosphere that perfectly captured the youthful energy of the collection. Meanwhile, Cucculelli Shaheen added laser lights and a live band to their show, transforming the runway into a stage fit for rock stars and flawlessly complementing the high-end aesthetics of their dresses.
New York Fashion Week exemplifies the vast array of styles and tastes catering to diverse audiences. From Coach’s grandeur to LaQuan Smith’s glamour and Cucculelli Shaheen’s elegance, the city establishes itself as a unique fashion destination. The ability of New York to embrace diversity and accommodate various aesthetics solidifies its standing as a fashion capital of the world.
Useful Links:
1. New York Fashion Week
2. Coach Fall 2023 Collection
