New York Fashion Week – A Bold Kick-Off to the Fall 2025 Season

New York Fashion Week, one of the most pivotal events in the luxury fashion calendar, was in full swing from February 6 to 11, setting the stage for an electrifying showcase of creativity and style. The lineup features industry powerhouses like Tory Burch, Carolina Herrera, Christian Siriano, Thom Browne, and Coach, alongside exciting debuts from designers including Alexis Bittar, Contessa Mills, Destroyer of Worlds, and more.

Day one launched with a bang, spotlighting standout collections and promising a week brimming with bold statements, fresh perspectives, and unforgettable fashion moments.

Brandon Maxwell

Brandon Maxwell’s latest collection marked a bold shift in his design philosophy, moving away from the statement dresses that defined his early career toward a focus on versatile, everyday pieces rooted in All-American sportswear. Inspired by the polished yet casual vibe of the 1980s, Maxwell infused the collection with power shoulders, oversized men’s dress shirts, and flowy black leather midi skirts, and they were all set to the iconic sounds of Prince. Tailored coats, plaid blazers layered over ribbed turtlenecks, and belted leather track pants showcased a refined yet wearable aesthetic, while his knitwear collaboration with Ryan Roche added texture through chunky marled pullovers and sleek black animal spot intarsia dresses. Balancing polished sophistication with street-ready practicality, Maxwell’s collection redefined modern American fashion with a fresh, confident edge.

SLOAN

Making a striking debut at New York Fashion Week with an intimate show at the Ritz Carlton, SLOAN introduced a collection that seamlessly blended business professionalism with a contemporary edge. The collection emphasized expert draping and knot details, which were paired with oversized and sharply tailored suits that redefined women’s suits. Tailored shoulder pieces and voluminous trench coats added structure, while layered looks evoked understated sophistication in a neutral color palette of muted earthy tones. Luxe fabrics like cashmere and linen elevated sleek knitwear dresses and skirts, showcasing SLOAN’s fresh and modern take on power dressing with effortless elegance.

Todd Snyder

Todd Snyder took to the runway with bold strides, reclaiming creative freedom and blending the structure of traditional menswear with a rebellious deconstruction. Emphasizing self-expression over commercial appeal, Snyder played with the “push and pull” of school uniform aesthetics by introducing oversized slouchy suits, unlined double-breasted cashmere coats, and military-inspired pieces like Eisenhower jackets. The collection also embraced a romantic edge, with velvet and satin suits paired with silky shirts for red carpet moments. Rich textures like mohair, velvet, and silk were complemented by a color palette of romantic pinks, blues, and Snyder’s signature “Olive,” capturing both sensuality and sophistication. This collection is a playful yet elegant take on menswear, tailored for the confident, modern man.

Christian Siriano

For his latest collection, Christian Siriano drew inspiration from futurism and modern technology by implementing sleek lines and curves inspired by the automotive world. The collection featured bold colors like red symbolizing love, power, and anger while subtly addressing current political and social climates, including gender inclusivity and economic uncertainty. The dramatic evening wear included corseted, latex-like gowns, strapless sequined dresses, and a striking one-shouldered tulle gown. Siriano also pushed the boundaries of traditional menswear with cropped tuxedo looks, which challenged gender norms. With a color palette of black, red, and pops of blue, the collection exuded glamour with an edge, making a powerful statement about the future of fashion.

Gabe Gordon

Gabe Gordon‘s debut Fashion Week collection was a playful yet bold nod to high school sports culture, blending wrestling and varsity aesthetics with contemporary streetwear. Key elements include oversized sweat-suit looks, fringe knitwear, and matching knit sets, all in a neutral color palette of tans, reds, blacks, blues, and whites. Wrestling-inspired silhouettes, complete with hand tape and cheerleader pom-pom accessories add a whimsical touch. Letterman-inspired “G” logos and knee-high socks resembling soccer shin guards bring a youthful edge, while lace-up Converse and Adidas sneakers ground the collection in modern sportswear.

Collina Strada

Collina Strada explored themes of matriarchy and concealed emotions, blending strength with vulnerability in a playful yet defiant manner. Inspired by a vision of a matriarchal society, the collection focuses on self-love, queer identity, and individuality, and there’s also a strong emphasis on visibility and the rejection of societal normality. Key pieces include floral corduroy jacket dresses, upcycled wool overcoats, and chunky knitwear made from deadstock yarns. The collection also features repurposed vintage wedding gowns and whimsical accessories like oversized bee-eye sunglasses. With a focus on sustainability, Strada merges eco-conscious materials with avant-garde designs that challenge traditional norms and celebrate inclusivity.

Jane Wade

Jane Wade‘s collection delved into the world of corporate life, critiquing employer-sponsored surveillance culture and the loss of individuality within soulless corporate structures. With a meta-narrative imagining her independent brand being absorbed by a corporate giant, Wade blends personal reflection with sharp commentary. The collection features deconstructed office wear, including cotton poplin button-ups, wool suits with contrasting chalk stripes, and exaggerated proportions. Highlights include an oatmeal-colored cashmere coat with a cell phone pouch, symbolizing modern work dynamics. Wade’s playful mix of sexuality and traditional office attire challenges conventional professional fashion alongside her mature, polished designs, and it does so while maintaining her signature wit and boldness as well.

Christopher John Rogers

Closing day one, Christopher John Rogers made a triumphant return to New York Fashion Week after nearly two years. He debuted a refined, more disciplined collection that highlighted his personal growth and evolving design perspective. The 38-look show was held at the Brooklyn Navy Yard’s Agger Fish Building, and it showcased a vibrant, bold color palette with signature stripes featured on everything, from party dresses to trench coats. A standout was the dramatic color-blocked gown in Japanese cotton and silk taffeta, a red-carpet-ready masterpiece. Rogers balanced wearable, oversized tailoring with striking evening wear, blending joyful exuberance with a newfound maturity. The collection celebrated his evolution by blending bold creativity with commercial viability, and this cemented his place as one of American fashion’s brightest talents.

As New York Fashion Week Draws to a Close…

The initial spotlight on these visionary designers sets a vibrant tone for the week ahead. From the fearless colors and structured elegance of Christian Siriano to the bold, youthful spirit of Gabe Gordon, the collections have seamlessly blended creativity with cultural commentary. Whether it’s the rebellious tailoring of Todd Snyder or the sustainable, inclusive designs of Collina Strada, the future of fashion is looking more exciting than ever. As the runway collections unfold, one thing is clear: this season is all about celebrating individuality, pushing boundaries, and making bold statements.