“Fashion is not about utility. An accessory is merely a piece of iconography used to express individual identity.” (The Devil Wears Prada)
Taking the stage this week from September 10th to the 15th, 2026, was one of the most well-known fashion events of the year: New York Fashion Week (NYFW).
This year’s NYFW shows were iconic, foreshadowing the future fashion trends for the spring and summer of 2027. Although the show is staged in September, designers create masterpieces to predict and create inspiration for the direction of the latest styles to come. Freshman Leah Masse believes, “I think it is a good way for creative people in the fashion industry to display their artwork and it is inspiring to many future fashion designers.”
This year’s show truly represented that fashion is art, and everyone expresses it differently. Timeless and elegant pieces were mixed with some avant-garde designs. One notable designer, Thom Browne, created a line inspired by a dark garden, calling it The Shed at Hudson Yards. His collection ended the spring 2027 season portion of the week, creating lots of chatter and buzz around his innovative designs. His line was based off of the family-comedy Pixar film, A Bug’s Life. Browne wanted to take inspiration from this children’s movie and take his own spin on it, crafting stunning remixed tailored suits. His designs noted many tiny details, such as embroidering ants onto the masterpieces and creating life sized insect-inspired gowns.
Contrasting from the flashy, modern statement pieces, was a handful of minimalistic and simple designs that did not go unnoticed. Classic designers from brands such as Caroline Herrera and Diane Von Furstenberg brought old-school high fashion to the runway. These brands, while incredibly elegant, feel more accessible, and are actually wearable. Unlike the insect-inspired designs of Thom Browne, a classic wrap dress is a piece of fashion that will go anywhere.
One plot twist for the week was the no-fur policy implemented for the first time this fall. The purpose of this rule is to create a more sustainable environment for the fashion world. Given that New York Fashion Week inspires hundreds of upcoming designers, with the top fashionista’s in the world abiding by this rule, there is a high chance that others will follow their lead. Freshman Bella Ching comments, “The no-fur policy is inspiring to people because it shows that the organization (NYFW) truly cares about animals and creates a more ethical way to create the clothing.” NYFW was certainly not the first show to do this, given that London, Berlin, Copenhagen, and many others have already promoted the movement.
New York Fashion Week has set the bar high for fashion month, keeping Paris, Milan, and London Fashion Week on their best game!
