Presenting Spring/Summer 2022 collections, runways were sashayed by supermodels, front rows graced by celebrities and streets overflowing with colour, boundless optimism and countless style inspiration.
With over 91 designers showcasing at NYFW, it’s understandable that some of the iconic designs and outfits were sadly missed. Fear not, though, for we’ve rounded up the most memorable and unmissable moments from the momentous occasion. We won’t go as far to say that they’ll change the world of fashion forever, however we will admit that these trailblazing moments are already iconic in our books.
Continue reading for the very best fashion from New York Fashion Week.
Aaron Philip Makes History at Moschino
The beautiful, effervescent and inspirational Aaron Philip made history at Moschino as the first disabled model to showcase for a major luxury fashion brand. Wearing a stunning canary two-piece with a matching bralette, Aaron undisputedly stole the ‘babies-who-brunch’ inspired show. Reflecting on the occasion, Aaron remarks “I hope this is the start of more and inspires & empowers more global brands at the same level to truly work towards including and normalizing disabled presences and talents in their showcases. Disabled people, models and talents matter so much.”
A little closer to home at Afterpay Australian Fashion Week, we saw the pitfall of performative allyship at the Future of Fashion show with a runway that did not adequately accommodate the needs of all participants, starkly highlighting the disparity between tokenism and true representation and inclusivity.
Bravo to Aaron, Jeremy and Moschino.
Gigi Hadid’s Return To The Runway
Gigi Hadid has most certainly had a busy few months. Between caring for her daughter Khai and being one of the most highly sought after models in the world, we were surprised to see her pop up in so many shows. The first cab off the ranks was Proenza Schouler, who styled Gigi in a billowy two-toned dress and matching lei, closely followed by Moschino, which Gigi both opened and closed. Her supermodel sister Bella Hadid has been notably absent from the runway, instead choosing to focus her attention on her latest venture Kin Euphorics (but Gigi has certainly made enough appearances for the both of them). Other highlights include Michael Kors, Brandon Maxwell, Altuzarrra and Tom Ford.
LaQuan Smith Takes His Career To New Heights
With over a decade in business, LaQuan Smith took his career to new heights (to the top of the Empire State Building to be exact)for his Spring/Summer 2022 collection. LaQuan is the very first designer to host a fashion show at the prestigious location which overlooks his hometown of Queens. Ascending the 120 floors were supermodels including Taylor Hill, Elsa Hosk and Winnie Harlow, all of whom were draped in LaQuan’s expertly craft designs. The star of the show? The New York City skyline at dusk, of course.
Maisie Wilen’s ‘Campy’ Karaoke Party
Maisie Wilen met us at the Boom Boom Room for her NYFW debut. Since launching in 2019, (with the support of Kanye West no less), creator Maisie Schloss has produced one impressive collection after the other which are loved by the likes of Y2K poster girls Charlie XCX, Devon Lee Carlson.
The theme of the collection was kitschy Equestrian chic, equipped with jockey style shirts and pussy-bow blouses. Safe to say we can’t wait to see these looks at the races. Closing the show was German songstress Kim Petras, who wore a lacy babydoll dress and leggings, complete with a tiara whilst entertaining the crowd.
A Family Affair At Collina Strada
Officially opening New York Fashion Week was Collina Strada — and what an opening it was. With festivity and joyfulness being integral to the brand’s DNA, designer Hillary Taymour had no trouble bringing fun and electricity to the runway. Her collection was a jubilant adventure, filled with diverse models, outlandishly chic Y2K designs and a celebration of family. The matriarchal affair saw twins walking down the runway in tandem and grandmothers and granddaughters in arms. The sweetest moment was Taymour closing the show with her niece in tow. Our hearts are melting.
Tom Ford Brings Parachute Pants To The Runway
He’s the matriarch of modern fashion and (as president of the CFDA) nominated himself as the person to conclude the prestigious week. Ford understood the assignment, continuing the party in a vibrant and colourful collection, shaped by his time in LA. Sequin bicycle shots, pepto bismol pink blazers and swanky singlets characterised the 80’s-esque athleisure collection. The words cute, sexy and sportif certainly come to mind.
The ever so glamorous Ford departed from his signature gowns and seductive silhouettes, instead opting for a series of drop crotch trousers reminiscent of MC Hammer. Will we all be inspired to take up aerobics? As long as we’re wearing Tom Ford, we don’t care what we do.
Tory Burch Hosted The Best Block Party
Tory Burch's Spring/Summer 2022 collection was a love letter to New York. Celebrating and supporting downtown New York enterprise, Tory Burch hosted a Mercer Street Block Party that highlighted iconic SoHo businesses and restaurants, with booths lining either side of the runway. Guests were invited to eat, drink and shop from iconic New York vendors whilst indulging in Burch's Claire McCardell inspired designs.
