New York Fashion Week. Seven days of cameras flashing, bright lights, and the most renowned designers and models promoting the latest up and coming styles to the rest of the world. Year after year, New York Fashion Week holds the reputation of presenting this season’s most prestigious looks and serving as a pedestal for the trophies of creative design, while the rest of the world simply observes. Yet this year, the tides changed as America watched the creatives behind NYFW shift from cosmopolitan to classic, from gaudy to gracious. Rather than the typical looks that appear so high-end and upscale that they seem unattainable, dozens of designers opted for more relatable, fundamental collections. This paradigm shift in the industry bridged the gap between the general public and the most powerful individuals in the world of fashion. 

CHECKERED AND CHIC

When Coach entered the runway, they made it obvious that the checkered print is reigning this season. With models sporting warm-tone gingham coats and houndstooth sets, this classic pattern is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. The beautiful thing about this trend is that most people have checkered-style clothing pieces in their wardrobes already. Simply grab a favorite harlequin blouse or jacket, pair it with standard bottoms and accessories, and a runway-ready ensemble is at fingertips’ reach. Through using basic clothing decorated with bold, geometric patterns, one becomes ready to make a statement. The design of this collection blends the business of civilian lives with the simplicity that everyone searches for, allowing a seamless transition into the fall and winter seasons.

LESS IS MORE

Everyone loves a classic matching duo, and Michael Kors listened and delivered. Strutting in simple yet eye-catching pieces, these models showed the world that austere pieces are the new extravagant. As stated in Vogue, Michael Kors is a brand founded on “simply classic clothes cut from fabulous fabrics”. Kors told Women’s Wear that “clean lines have greater longevity, which women appreciate, to which they can add their own personality.” Michael Kors displayed this with basic pieces that men and women can embellish with their own personal style. Synchronized through cut and color, their designs remain timeless and desired by all who wish to keep things simple yet classic. The versatility of these looks appeals to the general public, speaking to the popular mantra that less is more.

SIMPLISTIC SHAPES

Founded by Ashley Olsen and Mary Kate Olsen, The Row’s brand vision is to “explore the strength of simplistic shapes that speak to discretion and are based on uncompromising quality.” This creative direction embodies itself in their Fall 2021 Ready-to-Wear collection through boxed silhouettes and neutral color palettes. These looks encompass the revered basic style that anyone can recreate using pieces they already own. The collection offers classic pieces, ranging from overcoats to trousers to simplistic accessories. The menswear inspired design allows room for personalization, while staying flexible enough for people to adjust it to their own lifestyles. One can take these looks anywhere, from the office to an evening out with friends. The creation of this collection speaks to the daily lives and responsibilities of America’s public. 

This season, it’s never been easier to take your pick from any of these timeless brands and recreate your own looks at home. So, what are you waiting for?

Written by: Katie Clardy, Photography: Becca Cook, Design: Lili Sullivan, Social Media: Lauren Ercolani