September has arrived, ushering in autumn winds and my favourite time of year—fashion weeks. The inaugural Spring/Summer 2025 fashion week kicked off in New York, a vibrant six-day event, with many designers showcasing their collections, mirroring the city’s energy. Numerous new trends emerged (which I am saving for a separate article), but here are some highlights of the key moments from NYFW:
Alaïa x Guggenheim Swirl Moment
Pieter Mulier’s recent Alaïa collection showcased at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) marked a significant moment as it was the first show held at the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The collection, themed around “American Beauty,” featured sculptural designs such as palazzo pants and a striking pink silk fur coat, emphasising movement, and texture. The designs cleverly mirrored the museum’s iconic spiral ramp. The collection featured garments that flowed gracefully, utilising dramatic pleats and sculptural forms that echoed the architectural curves of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece. Models descended the spiralling concrete ramps, creating a mesmerising visual of movement that complimented the collection’s emphasis on fluidity and freedom. The star moment of the show was added by none other than Rihanna, who was wearing a glittering Alaïa design.
Off-White debuts at the Brooklyn Bridge Pier
Off-White made its New York debut this fashion week under the creative direction of Ib Kamara. They transformed Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pier into a massive basketball court for the showcased. The inspiration for the collection came from a trip to Ghana, the home country of late founder Virgil Abloh, Kamara notes. Distorted denim, asymmetrical layers, iconography, varsity jackets– a collection full of sports and basketball aesthetics. The highlight of the show – are you ready for it – Zayn Malik! The singer was seated in the front row along with Camila Cabello, marking an unforgettable appearance at the NYFW.
Pink Blasts with Prabal Gurung
The designer showcased a collection that was inspired by the festival of Holi and the upcoming US presidential elections encouraging people to go and vote. The designs featured a stunning array of garments characterised by colours and playful silhouettes, flowy garments, airy slip dresses, structured pieces portraying feminine strength. The celebratory atmosphere was further enhanced by the inclusion of traditional dhol music, creating an immersive experience for the audience. In a climactic finale, models dressed in white joyfully threw pink powder into the air, echoing the tradition of Holi, reflecting the festival’s colourful spirit while intertwining political elements which was clearly visible when the designer came out wearing a white tee with VOTE written on it.
Ralph Lauren x The Hamptons
Before the official start of NYFW, Ralph Lauren transported the guests to the Hamptons to showcase his collection. The show was a stunning display of all-American luxury, set against a backdrop of blue skies, white picket fences, and lush equestrian fields. The collection featured a blend of Ralph Lauren’s various lines, including the Polo Ralph Lauren and Purple Label, showcasing a wide array of garments that embodied classic American prep. The highlight moment of the show was when supermodels Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington closed the show in coordinated cream-and-white outfits – need we say more?
Collina Strada in Nature
Collina Strada‘s Spring/Summer 2025 show took place in the enchanting Marble Cemetery in New York City, creating a serene and nature-inspired atmosphere. The designer requested the guests backstage to touch the grass, keep their iPhones aside, connect with nature, and live in the moment. The show opened with a burst of energy as the first model playfully leapt onto the runway, throwing grass into the audience – ah, the New York energy! The collection featured earthy pastels, playful ruffles, and the brand’s signature fun prints, embodying a whimsical yet grounded aesthetic. With a cameo by the Green Lady of Brooklyn (you should seriously check out her Instagram), and a model walking with a lawnmower, the guests definitely couldn’t stay without capturing the moments on their phones.
Carolina Herrera’s Vibrant World
A vibrant celebration of colour and femininity designed by Wes Gordon, the collection featured a stunning array of garments that embraced the house’s signature elements, particularly bright hues and playful polka dots. Models strutted down the runway, presenting a mix of ladylike silhouettes and youthful elements with striking features like taxi cab yellow colour, barbie pink, and polka dots that have been a house signature. And what’s better than the house founder, Caroline Herrera herself, sitting in the front row, loving the collection, might we add?
