New York Fashion Week has made a triumphant return, showcasing the Spring/Summer 2022 collections of some major fashion houses. Despite the persistent pandemic, designers are hopeful for a return to normalcy and are incorporating a sense of escapism and longing for a more relaxed lifestyle into their designs. Among the standout collections this season were those of Proenza Schouler, Moschino, Carolina Herrera, and Michael Kors.
Proenza Schouler, known for their knack for interpreting American fashion trends, presented a collection that evoked a sense of freedom and wanderlust. Set against a backdrop of water and wooden fencing reminiscent of tranquil Atlantic beaches, the urban collection featured powerful tailoring, including safari jackets, parkas, and wraparound trenches. The showstopper pieces were the chess piece dresses embellished with beads and fringes. The collection was completed with mannish loafers, chic sandals, and stylish Dia Day Bags. According to the designers, the collection symbolized a celebration of newfound freedoms and a hopeful outlook for the future.
Moschino, led by the endlessly witty Jeremy Scott, showcased a humorous and upbeat collection despite the gloomy weather. The collection played with pop retro ideas and nursery school prints, featuring short A-line dresses, flamenco jackets, and picnic dresses adorned with large pink heart buttons. Scott’s favorite fabrics for the season were naïve pastel prints with playful animal motifs. The collection was accessorized with bangles, beaded afros, and colorful high heels. The show concluded with a three-dimensional presentation of animal prints, and Scott took his bow alongside transgender model Aaron Philip.
Carolina Herrera celebrated its 40th anniversary with an intimate show held in an elegant Upper East Side townhouse. The collection remained true to the brand’s classic aesthetic, featuring puff-shouldered white suits, silk gowns, and jacquard cocktails. Designer Wes Gordon injected a youthful energy into the collection with floral-detailed cotton shirts, micro cocktails, and a new logo-lettered polka-dot print. The standout pieces included anthracite sequined bustiers and jet micro dresses with enormous trains. The collection was a bold statement for the future, expressing the hope for a reopening of society with events and celebrations.
Michael Kors brought a sense of carefree joy and a connection to nature to his show at Tavern on the Green in Central Park. The collection showcased urban styles such as halter neck little black dresses, flared leather skirts, and slouchy trench coats. For evening wear, there were leather sheaths, confetti guipure cocktail dresses, and full skirts. Kors added a touch of beachy vibes with black cashmere sweaters featuring a red heart. While the collection may not have been at the pinnacle of Kors’ creations, it symbolized optimism and a sense of relief after the prolonged lockdowns.
In summary, these four collections epitomized the designers’ longing for a return to normalcy, the celebration of newfound freedoms, and a hopeful outlook on the future. As the fashion industry continues to navigate the challenges of the ongoing pandemic, it is clear that designers are eager to embrace a sense of escapism, travel, and joy through their creations. The beauty and creativity showcased during New York Fashion Week serve as a powerful reminder that fashion has the ability to uplift and inspire even in the most difficult times.
Useful links:
1. Nicole Kidman Glows in Carolina Herrera at NYFW
2. Proenza Schouler’s Spring 2022 Collection at NYFW
