This season, I had the pleasure of attending a handful of shows and presentations during New York Fashion Week. From couture gowns that brought constellations to the runway to accessories that quietly stole the spotlight, each show resonated with me in a different way. These are the details I’m inspired to carry with me into the season ahead.
Alice + Olivia: We The Women
This season’s presentation, We the Women, was an ode to the American woman across time. The Hall of Records was transformed into a dreamscape, anchored by a 20-foot Statue of Liberty in a butterfly gown overlooking the crowd and flowers cascading down the grand staircase. Across 45 looks, Stacey Bendet drew on different eras of women’s fashion — from sweeping ball skirts to the sharp tailoring of a lean suit. What struck me most was how she celebrated every facet of the American woman: glamorous, powerful, romantic, and playful. The energy felt nostalgic yet uplifting, and I found myself especially drawn to these two looks: one whimsical and romantic, the other powerful and playful — my standout looks from the presentation.
COS: Chic Versatility
COS showcased their most recent Fall/Winter collection, one that was unmatched in its wearability. Each look was chic and versatile, striking the perfect balance between sophistication and ease. Whether from the men’s or women’s line, I genuinely felt I could wear everything that came down the runway. What stood out most to me was the mix of materials that gave a subtle edge to the brand’s clean silhouettes. The handbags and coats especially caught my eye — from faux croc and ponyhair to a textured “paper bag” design that felt both clever and instantly covetable. These were my standout pieces.
Tory Burch: Imperfections Made Perfect
Tory Burch’s Spring/Summer 2026 show was striking in its unexpected contrasts. The venue, a former bank, was grand yet filled with light — bright, airy, and glowing — the perfect backdrop for the colors on the runway. As always, Tory’s play with color impressed me: from vivid poppy reds to soft pastel yellows and blues, the palette felt both fresh and uplifting. I was especially taken with the styling of the low-slung skirts, paired effortlessly with light knits and crisp tailoring — an ease that felt so right for the modern woman. What ultimately struck me most, however, were the accessories: faux pearls, shells, and sleek wraparound glasses that gave the collection a playful, unexpected finish. These details elevated the looks, rounding out the collection as polished yet wonderfully effortless — my standout highlights.
Andrew Kwon — Celestial Fantasy
Andrew Kwon’s Spring/Summer 2026 Celestial collection at the Waldorf Astoria was one of the most breathtaking shows I attended this season. Inspired by Aurora, the goddess of dawn, the gowns shimmered down the runway like fragments of the sky. I was especially taken by the intricate beadwork, the sculptural silhouettes, and the way the dresses seemed to float with every step. The collection felt powerful, ethereal, and unforgettable — these were my standout looks.
What I love most about fashion week is the contrast — from ethereal couture to effortless minimalism, from bold accessories to playful storytelling. Each show offered something unforgettable, and together they reminded me of fashion’s endless ability to inspire.
Editor
Jane Li
