After over a year on pause, New York Fashion Week has returned with glimmers of its former glory. Sure, vaccination cards are shown at the door and the main accessory is a face mask, but the runways are back and charging ahead with the latest styles of spring 2022. From Proenza Schouler’s poetic presentation with sweeping views of the Hudson River to Prabal Gurung’s evening soiree deconstructing the American Girl, we’re rounding up our favorite looks of the season ahead.
Staud
Was Staud the highlight of NYFW? For me, the answer is unequivocally yes. For her spring 2022 show, designer Sarah Staudinger transformed the terrace at Spring Studios into a lemon yellow-tinged disco party, complete with super cropped tops, extra low-rises, surprise fireworks, bubbly tequila drinks, and Larry David sitting front row, plugging his ears (naturally).—Claire Stern
Khaite
Like all things Khaite has done in its short tenure (the brand launched in 2017), its spring 2022 runway was a master class in wearable high luxury. From its oft-duplicated cashmere bra to footwear seen on the street style masses, designer Catherine Holstein has a knack for understanding the soft ease of American sportswear. This collection also pulled out decisive outerwear, shirtdresses swathed in pieces of jersey, and a floor-length hobo bag sure that’s sure to be the it-accessory of the season.—Justine Carreon
Vaquera
On the final day of NYFW, New York darling Vaquera showed an electric collection in a Tribeca alleyway. With A$AP Rocky looking on, models stomped the pavement in one of the brand’s strongest collections to date. Metallics, transparent PVC, neons, and zebra prints manifested in babydoll dresses, oversized separates, and couture-level gowns. Vaquera makes sexy look equal parts awkward as it does effortless; it is provocative without ever giving too much away.—Kevin LeBlanc
LaQuan Smith
It was an affair to remember. The fashion crowd, along with celebrities including Ciara, LaLa Anthony, Lori Harvey, and the City Girls, gathered at the top of the Empire State Building for LaQuan Smith, the first designer to ever hold a show at the New York City landmark. The Queens-born designer’s runway was simultaneously sexy and silly: models in sparkly bra tops and curve-hugging mini dresses walked poodles and chugged beers as they sauntered across the observation deck.—Claire Stern
Tom Ford
Closing out NYFW as he always does, Tom Ford made a triumphant return to the runway with acidic satins and a star-studded cast. Shiny cargo pants were contrasted with sports bras and legions of costume jewelry, gilded trucker jackets were placed over LBDs, and blazers were cut oversized and in magnetic hues. It was Tom Ford at his absolute best.—Justine Carreon
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