Over the weekend, New York City was filled with excitement as small shows and presentations took place throughout lower Manhattan. FashionNetwork.com had the privilege of attending five of these events, including Kate Spade, Alejandra Alonso Rojas, KitchenAid, Tara Babylon, and Melke.
Taking the lead in the NYFW calendar was Kate Spade, who celebrated their 30th anniversary with a remarkable presentation at the Whitney. Designers Tom Mora and Jennifer Lyu delighted attendees with a collection inspired by Color Field Painting, a prominent art movement. Models showcased monochromatic looks featuring patent leather skirts, polka dot mid-calf skirts, and mannish duchess satin blazers. The collection also included sequined chic, cobalt blue pant suits, De Stijl worthy cocktails, and parakeet green party frocks. To complete the outfits, faux fur striped scarves and a new range of clutches and handbags were added. Mora and Lyu emphasized their focus on creating a brand that is contemporary and fun, all while reflecting on the brand’s journey.
The next event was Alejandra Alonso Rojas’ collection, which was presented at the trendy Italian Riviera restaurant called Casino. Rojas showcased her talent as a premier knitwear designer, featuring a selection of clingy knit dresses and cable sweaters. The collection also highlighted Spanish tobacco-hued leather and hand-crocheted Japanese silk yarn panels in black and gold lame. Stunning halter neck evening dresses in wool mesh, traditional crochet, and anthracite satin were beautifully paired with chignon haircuts and jewelry from Jennifer Fisher. Rojas described her collection as a representation of self-expression and empowerment, embodied in a shield and superpower for the wearer.
KitchenAid surprised attendees with a collaboration featuring avant-garde designers to celebrate their Color of The Year: Hibiscus. The brand worked with stylist Marta Del Rio to curate a group of young New York designers who created looks inspired by KitchenAid’s Artisan Stand Mixer and K400 Blender. The event took place at KitchenAid’s 23rd Street store and showcased designers including Jackson Wiederhoeft, Tia Adeola, Bach Mai, and Man Made Skins. Among them, Tara Babylon stood out with her collection that repurposed old rock band T-shirts into luxury items using elastic weave, safety pins, and carpet pegs. Her rebellious tops, bomber jackets, and crinolines incorporated eclectic elements such as tartan swatches, fiery embroidery, African beading, and chains. The edgy looks were completed with flower-encrusted pirate hats, fishnet tights, and stilettos, leaving a lasting impression.
Tara Babylon, known for her creative mix reminiscent of Vivienne Westwood, showcased her collection Winter Babylonia at an art gallery on Ludlow Street. The collection was a bold combination of iconic T-shirts from legendary rock bands, including Bob Marley, Nirvana, The Clash, Prince, Metallica, and Kiss. These T-shirts were paired with tartan swatches, fiery embroidery, African beading, and chains, creating a rebellious aesthetic. Rock legend bomber jackets, outrageous crinolines, flower-encrusted pirate hats, fishnet tights, and stilettos accompanied the tops, making a strong statement in the fashion industry.
Lastly, Melke drew inspiration from the Roald Dahl classic James and the Giant Peach, as well as Tim Burton’s film adaptation. The show took place on the mezzanine seventh floor of Spring Studios and featured inclusive casting. However, the collection fell short of expectations. Mesh tops with dangling strips of wool, patchwork check jackets, and crochet bras resembling oranges failed to resonate with the audience. Despite this, the collection did feature groovy dusters with contrasting slashes of fabric, which offered a glimmer of redemption for the show.
In conclusion, these shows and presentations in lower Manhattan showcased a diverse range of styles and creativity. From Kate Spade’s vibrant and graphic collection to Alejandra Alonso Rojas’ impeccable knitwear designs, KitchenAid’s unexpected collaboration with avant-garde designers, Tara Babylon’s edgy and bold aesthetic, and Melke’s unique inspiration, the fashion scene in New York City continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences.
Useful links:
1. Whitney Museum of American Art
2. Spring Studios
