New York Fashion Week (NYFW) never fails to disappoint when it comes to showcasing creative and innovative fashion, and this year was certainly no exception. From unconventional inspirations like grannies and mermaids to paying homage to ’90s fashion icons, the runways were filled with a captivating range of muses that sparked designers’ imaginations and led to the creation of truly unique and awe-inspiring creations. Even with the Super Bowl LVI taking place at the same time, it was hard for attendees at NYFW to be distracted from the spectacular fashion spectacle that unfolded before their eyes.
Prominent designers such as Brandon Maxwell, Beckett Fogg and Piotrek Panszczyk of Area, Sergio Hudson, and Joseph Altuzarra all paid tribute to the influential female muses that shaped their creativity. As the shows kicked off, the frosty winter air was forgotten as the energy and excitement of NYFW heated up the entire city.
Brandon Maxwell kicked off NYFW with an incredibly emotional and nostalgic show. The dimly lit room was transformed into a reflective space with the occasional spotlight, setting the tone for what was to come. The show began with a film that beautifully narrated Maxwell’s life story, sharing poignant memories from his childhood and family life. The inclusion of a recorded conversation between the designer and his grandmother added a sentimental touch. The collection featured ball skirts inspired by vintage photographs of Maxwell’s grandmother and her friends from the 1950s. These ball skirts came in various styles, including pleated, tiered, and oversized chunky knits combined with sheer bustiers. The collection effortlessly exuded a sense of comfort and glamour, speaking to Maxwell’s own experiences of crafting skirts and ball gowns out of blankets during his childhood. To conclude the show, Maxwell lined up his models against the back wall, allowing his dedicated design team to share in the applause, showcasing the strong sense of unity within the brand.
Area, renowned for their avant-garde and crystal-infused designs, presented a collection deeply inspired by showgirls from different eras and locations. Their new multi-purpose space on lower Bowery couldn’t have served as a more fitting setting for intimate appointments to view the collection up close. Designers Beckett Fogg and Piotrek Panszczyk showcased their expertise with feathers, introducing metal feather bras, corsets, facepieces, and harnesses into their designs. The incorporation of Preciosa crystals into every piece added an undeniable touch of glamour. One particular showstopper was a black embroidered cape dress that required over 4,150 work hours to complete, a true testament to the brand’s craftsmanship and artistry.
Sergio Hudson, known for his meticulous attention to detail, left a lasting impression with a collection that catered to powerful female politicians and trend-conscious style-setters alike. Drawing inspiration from the Ndebele tribe in Africa, Hudson developed a captivating print that flowed throughout the collection. The silhouettes channeled the spirit of the ’90s, featuring sleeveless tailoring, flirty chiffon dresses, and off-the-shoulder white shirt ensembles. Hudson collaborated with Malone Souliers on footwear, perfectly complementing the looks with pastel and neutral-colored shoes. The show exuded energy and showcased Hudson’s ability to create fashion that is simultaneously powerful and stylish.
Joseph Altuzarra took the audience on an enchanting journey with his Fall/Winter 2022 collection. Held at the historic Woolworth Building, the setting added a touch of grandeur to the already captivating pieces. Altuzarra explored the concept of a sailor and traveler seamlessly transitioning into a mystical mermaid. The collection boasted voluminous silhouettes, layered textures, intricate techniques, and eye-catching embellishments. Prints inspired by fisherman sweaters and mariners added a distinct seafaring vibe. The show’s finale featured two stunning dresses made from hand-dyed metal paillettes, resulting in a captivating variegated fish scale effect. As the models gracefully walked, the dresses made a swooshing sound, reminiscent of the ocean’s gentle waves. Altuzarra’s collection was a testament to his exceptional craftsmanship and ability to create uniquely romantic pieces.
As NYFW came to a close, it became evident that designers had drawn inspiration from an incredibly diverse range of muses. Grannies, showgirls, ’90s fashion icons, and mermaids all played pivotal roles in influencing the collections that graced the runways. The fashion world eagerly awaits the next season of NYFW, eager to see what new muses will inspire designers and what extraordinary creations will grace the catwalks.
Useful links:
1. The New York Times Fashion Section
2. Vogue Fashion Show Coverage
