Highlights from Nearly 30 Events at New York Fashion Week 2024
NEW YORK — Another season of New York Fashion Week has come to a close.
This week featured showcases from notable designers like Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch, and 3.1 Phillip Lim, along with appearances from celebrities including Madonna, First Lady Jill Biden, and Suni Lee. The event offered a lot of excitement and fashion highlights. While some designs lacked flair (Sheer fashion for spring/summer? Not exactly innovative), the week still produced standout collections from Luar, Melitta Baumeister, and others, showcasing the incredible potential of the season.
As one editor took on almost 30 runway shows, presentations, and events, here’s a glimpse into the New York Fashion Week experience:
Harlem’s Fashion Row
Harlem’s Fashion Row Fashion Show & Style Awards highlighted what fashion week can and perhaps should represent: a celebration of upcoming talent alongside pioneers who have made a significant cultural impact. Naomi Campbell received the Icon Award, while Teyana Taylor was honored with the Virgil Abloh Award. Notables like Lena Waithe, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Anna Wintour addressed the audience, and designers A. Potts, Latouché, and Nicole Benefield Portfolio showcased their creations.
Longchamp
Longchamp celebrated its fall/winter 2024 collection and the Le Roseau bag with a lively event, where stars from Bravo’s “Summer House” mingled with Joey King and Maren Morris against colorful backdrops ideal for social media.
Ralph Lauren
To put it simply: extraordinary. Ralph Lauren hosted an exclusive gathering in the Hamptons for a select 250 guests, including First Lady Jill Biden, Usher, Tom Hiddleston, H.E.R., and Kacey Musgraves for a celebration of timeless style, culinary delights, and overall festive spirit. A small group of editors, including myself, ventured to Bridgehampton for the occasion, which you can read about in more detail here. The key observation: Ralph Lauren remains a true artisan and delivered some of the week’s most stunning pieces.
Brandon Maxwell
Brandon Maxwell showcased a collection that “softly unraveled the brand DNA” to convey a feeling of calm sophistication, as noted in the show commentary. While some elements stood out beautifully (the navy pieces were particularly impressive, as was a beige jacket with a shimmering silver skirt), the collection as a whole felt somewhat unfocused.
Christian Siriano
The arrival of Lil’ Kim mid-show to join Cyndi Lauper, Tiffany Haddish, and Selma Blair in the front row signaled that Christian Siriano served up a Fashion Week moment to remember. The collection felt a bit more eclectic and less practical compared to his prior works, but the designer’s commitment to inclusivity and an interesting front row was definitely evident.
Badgley Mischka
During the presentation by Badgley Mischka, models showcased an array of laser-cut floral patterns, vibrant hues, and a light blue pleated dress adorned with a jeweled, off-the-shoulder design, embodying modern casual couture.
James Mischka shares his thoughts: “Much of what we see comes down to the fabric and technology. Everything has some stretch, making it feel sporty even though the style is quite formal. It’s crucial for us that our customers don’t have to sacrifice comfort for fashion.”
Mark Badgley adds, “Our clientele seeks a classic aesthetic . It’s about gradually introducing changes over time.”
Jonathan Cohen
Jonathan Cohen‘s showcase, themed “Synesthesia,” was held upstairs from The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center. The atmosphere was vibrant, amplified by the coffee from Blank Street and the collection’s bright colors and eclectic patterns—especially a striking royal blue jacket with wide lapels paired with maroon, yellow, and green accents.
Who Decides War
This was undoubtedly one of the week’s highlights. Who Decides War pulled out all the stops: a breathtaking venue (Halls Des Lumières), student musicians from the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts playing alongside an original Cash Cobain track, and a front row featuring YG and NLE Choppa. The collection drew inspiration from Victorian times, showcasing materials like cotton, linen, and lace. Notably, Katy Perry wore a shipwreck-themed crop top and skirt from this collection on the MTV VMAs red carpet just days later.
Tanner Fletcher
Imaginative and entertaining, Tanner Fletcher presented vignettes that highlighted the clothing beautifully. Among the highlights was Dylan Mulvaney in a two-tone strapless gown, representing “the artist and her muse,” along with scenes themed around “Victorian women polishing silver,” “finance bro,” and “loves me, loves me not,” featuring a cream satin drop-waist dress.
Sergio Hudson
Softness and sensuality characterized Sergio Hudson‘s collection, a shift from the bold, structured styles his brand is known for. Standout pieces included pastel silk and sequined fabrics, a navy pinstriped pantsuit, and the debut of menswear offerings. Hudson shared with YSL News, “I was looking for some peace and quiet amidst the chaos in the business. That’s where this calmness came from, pushing through challenges to showcase what I believe the brand should embody.”
Jordan Brand
A refreshing escape was found at Jordan Brand‘s downtown suite, curated by Spike Lee’s children Satchel and Jackson Lewis Lee. They showcased the latest apparel and shoe designs from the iconic brand and provided a sneak peek of a collaboration with Téla D’Amore, co-founder of Who Decides War. The space was serene, offering wellness treatments, green juices, and food—an unusual treat for editors who often find themselves rushing around New York.
Jason Wu
Jason Wu presented a cohesive collection illuminated by the natural light of Hudson Yards. Among the exceptional pleated pieces were a glossy white dress, a cocoa-colored outfit featuring corseting and raw edges, and black trousers complemented by a pleated half-skirt.
Alexis Bittar
Jewelry brand Alexis Bittar showcased its upcoming SS25 collection, highlighting the signature blend of lucite and metals, but what captured my attention most was a ring featuring a pearl held by a delicate gold hand.
3.1 Phillip Lim
In celebration of its 20th anniversary, 3.1 Phillip Lim revealed an ethereal collection, with lightweight lace, delicate feathers, camouflage patterns, tasseled sequins, open-knit mesh, and eye-catching shirts (“Enjoy the moment” one read, and it was a sentiment I wholeheartedly embraced). Celebrities such as Alanis Morissette, Kyrie Irving, Nia Long, Tanner Adell, and Daniel Dae Kim joined to honor Lim, who expressed a desire to reconnect with his initial joy for fashion design.
Markarian
Markarian, designed by Alexandra O’Neill, took inspiration from her childhood in the ’80s and ’90s. The collection featured jacquard dresses reminiscent of beloved Barbie dolls and luxurious yet playful sequin gingham.
Melke
For fans of the scholastic book fair, Melke transported attendees back to school with a presentation that included a dress crafted entirely from pencils and another adorned with erasers and sharpeners, complemented by walls lined with books. This collection would surely delight any stylish elementary school librarian.
Dennis Basso
Susan Lucci made her exciting debut at Dennis Basso, looking absolutely stunning. A notable Park Avenue group, including Kathy Hilton and Sandra Lee, enjoyed the show featuring models of all ages, showcasing glittering tweed outfits in various lengths alongside lighter versions of Basso’s signature furs.
Cotte D’Armes
Cotte D’Armes made waves at NYFW with designer Clarence Ruth’s solo runway debut. The show blended “traditional church attire for women” with athleisure, unearthing a “common thread” seen in bright colors, church fascinators, gloves, denim, and sweatpants. A striking piece was a structural dress featuring a light-up skirt, reminiscent of Jun Takahashi’s Undercover design worn by Amelia Gray Hamlin at the 2024 Met Gala.
Tory Burch
Kudos to Tory Burch! The Toryssaince is in full swing, presenting yet another remarkable collection attended by a star-studded front row featuring Ella Emhoff, Mindy Kaling, Suni Lee, Michelle Williams, Elizabeth Olsen, Jodie Turner-Smith, and more. The designer’s effortless cool-girl aesthetic shone through in the flowing, draped skirts.
Andrew Kwon
At Andrew Kwon‘s presentation in NYC venue COQODAQ, there was an abundance of stunning gowns. The collection showcased modern shapes and a gentle color scheme, creating a dreamy atmosphere for an early morning show.
COS
The European fashion brand COS attracted a star-studded audience, including Issa Rae, Colman Domingo, Emma Roberts, Emily Ratajkowski, and Chloë Sevigny. The runway was a minimalist’s paradise, with guests welcomed with champagne and mocktails. Fashion lovers can rejoice as the autumn/winter 2024 collection is available for purchase.
PatBO
PatBO confirmed that the trend of the butterfly top is still very much alive. The collection featured a transformation theme that appeared in dresses, but it was the dazzling maroon sequined pieces at the conclusion that truly captivated the audience, boosting an otherwise average collection. Reality TV celebrities like Jessel Taank and Stassi Schroeder were seen in the front row.
Pamella Roland
Pamella Roland transported the city that never sleeps into a romantic Paris setting for her spring show. Touted as a “love letter” to Paris, the colorful collection featured a variety of vibrant pinks, blues, and lavenders adorned with crystals and sequins, alongside elegant black gowns, jackets, and jumpsuits.
Among the celebrities spotted were Nicky Hilton, Anika Noni Rose, and Vanessa Williams. The show concluded with Frank Sinatra’s iconic song, “I Love Paris.”
“Paris in the springtime is incredibly beautiful,” Roland told YSL News. “We presented all the girls in vibrant hues, resembling a large bouquet.”
— Brendan Morrow
Bibhu Mohapatra
The artistic vision of Bibhu Mohapatra drew inspiration from punk rock pioneer and freedom symbol Patti Smith. The collection had a blend of everyday fashion, but the standout gowns (including a contemporary pink version of Marilyn Monroe’s “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” dress) showcased Mohapatra’s exceptional talent.
Luar
With Madonna in attendance, the buzz around the event was palpable. As crowds gathered around the Rockefeller Plaza runway, the energy of NYFW captured a quintessential “New York or nowhere” moment akin to last season’s Beyoncé appearance at Luar. Designer Raul Lopez is stepping into the spotlight, and the fashion showcased was a testament to that.
Black in Fashion Council Discovery Showroom
At the Black in Fashion Council Discovery Showroom, my wallet felt the pinch as it showcased a rich blend of memories and heritage: Adore Adorn‘s jewelry highlighted a statement ring inspired by the designer’s grandmother; Arch featured creative heart-shaped cutouts in heels; Atelier Ndigo showcased vibrant colors and intricate pleating; Borden offered luxe basics inspired by familial roots; and Diallo presented modern interpretations of ’60s and ’70s workwear.
Private Policy
“Everyone wants to be us.” This iconic line from Meryl Streep’s character in “The Devil Wears Prada” was featured on a T-shirt in Private Policy‘s take on the film, early 2000s office fashion, and the ongoing debate about AI’s impact on creativity and productivity.
Models typed hurriedly on retro desktop computers while others, reminiscent of office glamazons, graced the runway. I even spotted the notorious Anna Delvey in attendance, complete with her ankle monitor.
Melitta Baumeister
Quirky yet stylish, this was one of the standout shows of the week. Onlookers from neighboring buildings captured the spectacle, closed by Offset in an oversized leather cape jacket with dramatic detailing.
Set to a soundtrack filled with heavy breathing and heartbeat sounds, Melitta Baumeister‘s runway debut was vibrant with the designer’s unique vision, combined with funky styling that evoked being zapped while showering, and pieces that are both unique and easily wearable (features included a whimsical banana bag and a literal smoking bag).
Lost Pattern
For Lost Pattern‘s “La Isla” runway event, this brand, renowned for its silk scarves and accessories, expanded into ready-to-wear attire. A significant collection was showcased as models paraded through the streets of New York post-show, indicating potential still exists for the label to successfully adapt its signature styles into desired clothing items.
