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And That’s A Wrap | NYFW FW20

Last season I told myself I wouldn’t take off work to attend shows, so I ran down the streets of New York on my lunch break. Basically, I exhausted myself. So this season I approached it differently. I allocated as many shows as I could on Friday (took a half-day), the weekend, and Tuesday (took off). So much easier! I was actually able to enjoy my days while finishing all my actual work beforehand. As far as the shows — I spent most of January pitching myself to brands and PR agents, scheduling out the week, and coordinating my work to accommodate taking time off — all worth it. This season was spectacular, not only because of the shows themselves but the fact that I was able to get to this point. A point where I was able to manifest actually attending shows like Sally LaPointe, Cynthia Rowley, and Nicole Miller. I’m grateful and humbled by how much effort it took to get here.

As I write this (nearly a week after NYFW) I’m tired. Not a burn out tired, more of an uninspired tired. It’s hard to continue on the momentum of creating content when there isn’t much happening aside from cold weather these days. Everything I create… I hate, which isn’t a word I like to use. I’ve been trying to create video content, which isn’t something I’m good at. I get uncomfortable on camera, plus I’m very hard on myself — so it hasn’t been great. But hopefully (fingers crossed) I snap out of it and get things done!

Wearing: Zara skirt & sweater | H&M hairbow | F21 boots | Nanushka bag (via Rent the Runway, use code: RTRNORA)

To close out a long, eventful fashion week, Fe Noel made its NYFW debut as well as Dirty Pineapple. I rushed to the shows after work on Wednesday, although I had originally planned to end my NYFW on Tuesday, I couldn’t pass up these unique collections! I may have looked like a mess, but the shows were well worth the experience.

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Dirty Pineapple

NARCISSIST RHAPSODY

Dirty Pineapple is a Shanghai based clothing band that “combines high street fashion and creative matching”. A very artistic approach to fashion. their concept used the ideas of innovation and equality; “A creator of inspiring equality through content, design, and message”. The colors stood out the most, my two favorites being the bright blue and yellow brush stroke patterns.

Dirty Pineapple Fall-Winter 2020

“A blur of contrast for the search of true beauty. A quest for a gender equal world in a unequal driven society”

— Dirty Pineapple (concept)

Dirty Pineapple Fall-Winter 2020

The color palette is what caught my eye — the first look at this season’s show was a bright blue “brush-stroked” jumpsuit (that I immediately wanted)! Dirty Pineapple incorporated layering in almost every piece, with large, vibrant blazers over simple turtlenecks and bright pants. The Dr. Martens shoes were an edgy addition to complete the looks. The looks were definitely over the top, but in an elegant way. Dirty Pineapple aims to take inspiration from the past, present and future to create its narrative in hope of a gender neutral world. Definitely came through the show’s portrayal of the artistic approach to gender neutral high street fashion.

I loved the variety of colors: from bright blues and yellows to neutrals and earth tones — the Fall colors were inspired by the golden hour of sunlight.

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Fe Noel

A Daughter Of The Soil: Grenada to New York

A beautiful debut and way to end NYFW, Fe Noel’s collection was sexy and full of color! Felisha Noel, Grenadian-Brooklyn based designer shows a family, cultural connection embedded in her colors and aesthetics. everyone left the show, ready to jet off to Grenada, as it was a clear celebration of her Caribbean roots. The final piece was a gorgeous lime dress, modeled by the beautiful Trinidadian model, Shan (@fershandez), which left up speechless! It was my first time getting to know the brand and wow(!!) What an honor to have been invited.

Fe Noel Fall-Winter 2020

“Eat well, travel often, and dress to inspire!... In other words make life beautiful.”

— Fe Noel (Philosophy)

Fe Noel Fall-Winter 2020

Brooklyn-based, Grenada-born designer Felisha Noel debuted her beautiful collection this season, and what a wonderful way to end NYFW as we were transported to Grenada. “Daughter of the Soil” was the description left on our seats, as I immediately felt the cultural connection (I’ve mentioned before how much I love the artistic concept descriptions). Fe Noel pays homage to the West Indian/African experience and empowerment through the colorful story of her designs. Heavily influenced by her Caribbean heritage, Felisha writes on her website that she holds her “mother and grandmother in high regard, crediting them for showing what drive, determination, and humble hearts”. So it’s no surprise why her designs are already worn by fellow inspiring women like Beyoncé and Michelle Obama.

This show began like no other I’ve experienced — with a short film introducing us to the Grenadian traditions. It set the tone for the show, as a tribute to authenticity, proud heritage, and cultural celebration. The excitement among the seat of guests did not go unnoticed, as we felt the message in our souls for the struggle we endure on the path towards becoming our true-selves.

On the collection itself — it was vibrant art and cultural expression. The romantic silk dresses and 2-piece sets were feminine and dreamy. The robe pieces mixed with printed patterns and vibrant colors felt like the true Caribbean homage. The collection expressed how proud Noel is of her ancestry, especially through the hairstyles as they were designed as beautiful as the clothes. I loved the models embracing their natural short styles, while others styled in long cornrows. They were the perfect touch, giving “vacationing on the beaches of Grenada” vibes — which I’m ready for!

Wearing: Philip Lim dress (via Rent the Runway), Kate Spade bag, Sweet Baby Jaime coat

On a rainy Tuesday, I needed my sunshine — in the form of a bright, yellow Kate Spade bag. Day 4 of NYFW, after a quiet Monday, with a day full of shows, a takeover for @cfashionista (my first time EVER doing one), and a meeting at MOEassist. Honestly, it was probably my favorite day all week.

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Noon By Noor

Fashion meets BAHRAIN Architecture

hARD TO EXPLAIN HOW HAPPY i WAS TO BE ATTENDING THIS SEASON! IT WAS EXACTLY A YEAR AGo, that I was attending MY FIRST nyfw SHOW, AT NONE OTHER THAN nOON BY nOOR. sO, WHEN i READ THEIR CONCEPT WAS INFLUENCED BY bAHRAIN’S DOORS AND ARCHITECTURE — iT FELT LIKE A SIGN (AS MY PROFESSION IS ARCHITECTURE) FOR A GREAT SHOW!

Noon by Noor Fall-Winter 2020

“Fall’s colors are inspired by the golden hour of sunlight at dusk. Muted hues... from sandstone and darker woodwork tones””

— Noon by Noor concept

Noon by Noor Fall-Winter 2020

Intricate geometric shapes, carving a shallow relief on wooden structures, doorways, and architecture — this was the inspiration celebrated in Noon by Noor’s FW20 fabrics and silhouette shapes. I appreciate their constant connection to Islamic culture and traditional cuts. The natural linen-wool and bold knitwear mixed with soft silks and chiffon mimics the fluid shapes of architectural design. Particularly the geometric square necklines and slit cuts, in a very chic minimal and romantic fluidity that is signature Noon by Noor, who are known for their playful, luxe-feminine designs and intricate embellishments.

As for the show — I loved the contrast in the models’ shoes, chunky platform boots with the soft feminine pieces is exactly how I would style it. The perfect fall collection to follow their very similar spring designs [SS20 show]. The designers draw inspiration from both Eastern and Western influences, with an emphasis on sharp tailoring, clean silhouettes and attention to detail. I could easily see this collection styled from modest outfits, to work attire, to a chic night out in the city.

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Sally La Pointe

unAPOLOGETIC in-your-face bold

An army of bold colors and monochrome beauty. The collection was all about making a statement, from turquoise to chartreuse to shimmering violet sequins. Once the lights dimmed, the room was quiet and it felt intense before the show even began. A spotlight amidst the darkness, followed each color down the runway. The sequins sparkled so bright — to a point where you forgot you were in Spring Studios, Sally LaPointe transported us all.

Sally LaPointe Fall-Winter 2020

“Fall 2020 collection started with the idea of there being no rules. Drawing inspiration from the attitudes of muses like Grace Jones and Bianca Jagger.”

— Sally La Pointe

Sally LaPointe Fall-Winter 2020

With muses like Grace Jones and Bianca Jagger it’s hard to follow the rules, as Sally LaPointe stated she “started with the idea of there being no rules” on femininity. She wanted the clothes to be “unapologetic ditch the conversations - just be you” vibes with bold colors, shimmering glamour, and belt bags — very in tune with Sally LaPointe’s image. We’ve seen her experiment with casual clothing in the past but this season the glam is back in her signature head-to-toe color designs. She’s hit all the major trends I had been seeing on the runway, particularly with colors and sequins. Of course, LaPointe took it to the next level of empowered monochromatic looks in a pitch black, spotlighted runway.

The Grace Jones/Bianca Jagger influence comes in with the with boucle leggings, feather details, and shiny leather. There was sex appeal and elegance, balanced through the juxtaposing approaches — the sophisticated draping vs. tight, clinging latex; in the shimmering sequins vs. patent leather; even in the rules of color vs. no rules on feminine design. The balancing and mix of materials, colors, and shapes combined with accents of fur/feather, accessories, and knitwear is what made the entire collection feel complete.

On the show itself — speechless. I’ve gone to Spring Studios before (where the show was held this season, Feb 2020), but leave it to Sally LaPointe to transport you to another world. As soon as the lights dimmed, music started, and the models came out — you felt the pulse. The pulse that something amazing was about to happen, and of course, Sally LaPointe never ceases to amaze. Watching the full army of models descend down the runway, each color grouped together, was the perfect ending to the show. It took me a second to realize we were still in Spring Studios.

Cynthia Rowley

As Models Emerged

lET ME START BY SAYING — i HAVE NEVER WANTED TO GET UP AND STRUT DOWN A RUNWAY MORE THAN AT CYNTHIA rOWLEY’S f/w 2020 SHOW! tHE ELEMENT OF SURPRISE, NOT ONLY IN THE BEAUTY OF THE DESIGNS, BUT IN THE MODELS THEMSELVES! tRUST ME WHEN i SAY, THIS SHOW WILL BE MEMORABLE FOR ALL. The row behind me cheered for every model coming down with the most badass attitude, I was dancing to the music, the woman next to me startled me When she threw off her robe, as she was an incognito model. Just Wow!

Cynthia Rowley Fall-Winter 2020

“We asked our models to give their best 90s supermodels strut. They all brought it!”

— Cynthia Rowley (Instagram)

Cynthia Rowley Fall-Winter 2020

Cynthia Rowley knows how to have a good time, especially given last season’s Tribeca street SS20 runway show. Given this season’s location was at Spring Studios, Rowley brought her energy and color to brighten up the space. Cynthia Rowley’s FW20 collection embraced the spirit of the her brand through the unique approach to prints and unexpected, patterns. The floral prints mixed with dark colors, made the collection feel like a fresh, groovy fall. I loved the addition to tulle over some of the models — making the clothes all the more fun. The flared sleeves were my favorite, especially layered under a dress.

Of course, what definitely brought the whole show to life were the models giving their best 90s supermodel runway walk! As any runway show, the music started and models began to appear up and down the runway, but the immersive experience at Cynthia Rowley’s show this season was the model sitting right next to me in the middle aisle. As models jumped up from random seats through the space to walk down the runway show, the one next to me got up (my heart skipped a beat). I was so startled, for a second, almost getting up myself ( JK, I wish! ). The energy was without a doubt fun and uplifting as the rows around me cheered and applauded. Rowley definitely embraced the spirit of the unexpected, from the music, to the models, to the clothes — it was a reflection of the designer’s unique approach to fashion.

Favorite songs from show’s playlist: Personal Jesus by Depeche Mode & All The Things She Said by t.A.T.u.

Wearing: Zara dress, Staud bag, — coat

Sundays are for subway shots! This marked my Day 3 of NYFW for Nicole Miller, Stevie Boi, Tibi, and a late night show for Palm Angels. In other words, it marked the first jam packed day I ever encountered for New York Fashion Week. Rainy and gloomy day, I decided a subway shot was the best representation — as I spent most of my time travelling from one show to the other on the subway (unlike most influencers I see with a Lexus driver).

I’m usually very wary of giving strangers my phone, but after striking up a conversation with the guy next to me, I learned he has been working at Spring Studios for 8 NYFW seasons! He asked if I just left the Nicole Miller show, complimented my outfit, and was kind enough to snap a few photos. We had a good laugh (lol).

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Nicole Miller

Rebellious Royalty And 70’s London Rock

Blown away! I can honestly still feel the music in my soul from the vibes Nicole Miller gave. Their “rock ‘n’ royalty” was evident in the patterns, the clothes, the hair, the music - Everything was on theme for the fall show. The concept title AUTOMATICALLY had me thinking of our rebellious royals, what’s had the media in a frenzy lately, but the show itself evolved to be the most inspiring rock-star attire, almost an ode to David Bowie.

Nicole Miller Fall-Winter 2020

Nicole Miller Fall-Winter 2020

“The range includes pieces intended to break down gender barriers and celebrate the androgynous spirit, and juxtaposes quintessential palace gardens with the underground music scene in London”

— Nicole Miller

Nicole Miller Fall-Winter 2020

Rebellious royalty — if Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s recent departure from the royal family wasn’t the first thing to spring into your mind, then you haven’t been keeping up with all the news lately! Regardless, Nicole Miller’s collection stands on its own without the royals, it was the epitome of edgy chic, perfect for any city gal/guy with a touch of renegade.

With the reference to 1970’s British rock-and-roll, I began to notice the cultural connection to British rock stars and, of course, David Bowie. The collection is a labyrinth rock vibes, from the edgy leather, a mix of paisley patterns, bell sleeves, and tailored blazers. Aside from the crowns printed on the tops or leather jackets, the true spirit of the show is more rock than royal — a tough feminine look, which I’m all for! Apparently, this was Nicole Miller’s first time sending men down the runway as part of her women’s show, in a time when gender-based concept are on the rise, it was a momentous move. Very in tune to the spirit of David Bowie’s legacy and also to that of Nicole Miller, who I respect for always shaking things up and surprising us all.

On the show itself — speechless. I’ve gone to Spring Studios (where the show was held this season, Feb 2020) before, but leave it to Nicole Miller to transport you to another world. As soon as the lights dimmed, music started, and the models came out — you felt the energy. I found myself bopping my head to the music as I stared at the details in her leopard/floral prints, velvet pieces, and silk shirts. As someone who loves studded shoes and combat boots, I appreciated the details in models’ looks. Needless to say, I can see myself styling each piece my own way. Waiting for Fall 2020!

Show playlist: Playa Grande + Swing by Sofi Tukker

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Palm Angels

into the sunset

“You are exactly where you need to be” these were the words you read when entering the palm angels venue. Set in the middle of manhattan, entering Palm Angels was like entering the coolest, after-hours club. Although it was way past my bedtime (grandma-alert) the energy was so intense — I quickly felt the pulse! Lights up and down the runway, palm angels finessed a blend of street style and western tailored knitwear/ outerwear.

Palm Angels Fall-Winter 2020

“mixed a subtle Southwestern spirit with his usual eclectic, mashed-up style”

Palm Angels Fall-Winter 2020

I first starting hearing about Palm Angels back in 2018, when my cooler cousins (the ones into underground street wear and long boarding) started talking about Francesco Ragazzi’s LA brand. This season’s collection was an homage to America, specifically the Southwest, as it gave a very “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly” vibes. The suede jackets, all things fringe, ponchos, and boots — a mix of Western street-cool, all that was missing was Clint Eastwood! Leave it to Ragazzi to make streetwear look tailored elegant, it was all in the details. He took jeans and jackets to the finest craft detail while adding his own mix of prints, bold accessories, and even created the half/half look (one piece in particular that stood out to me was the half denim, half plush jacket).

The mountain landscapes prints on sweaters and blanket button-downs blazers were just a few of the showstoppers. My favorite details revolved around the cowboy theme: the fringe, the cowboy boots, over-sized hats.

The show itself was everything Palm Angels represents AND MORE. Their guest list was a crowd of musicians, actors, long-time fans, and everyday writers, but everyone was dressed in the coolest style, no doubt. Even for a 9 p.m time slot, which I’ll admit had me tired, the venue was packed — with a line out the door of people trying to enter! It was like entering the dopest, after-hours club and it only got better from the entrance. Every seat was filled. Once inside the energy was electrifying. From the light show to the music, you felt the pulse in the air. We were loud, we were cheering, we were in a vibe. While I was headed towards the exit to head on home, the rest of the crowd was making plans to head out in New York City, as their night was just starting! That was, by far, the truest concept of Palm Angels.

One thing I noticed, and many pointed out, is the risk of appropriating Indigenous Navajo patterns used on the tailoring and some pieces. I had three followers (with Native American backgrounds) express their distaste in the world trying to take their traditional attire in cultural appropriation. Things like dressing as “sexy” Pocahontas was brought up or not understanding the true idea behind their culture.

Tibi

Past, Present, Future

I’ve been a long time Tibi fan, the brand is minimal elegance at its finest, yet somehow still a little chic eccentric through their cuts and colors. Unlike other seasons, Tibi decided to approach this fashion week with a presentation. No models. Just the collection. In what felt like art on display — a beautiful story of Tibi from where it started to where its headed.

Tibi Fall-Winter 2020

“Don’t get me wrong. I love doing runway shows... but we have a lot to say about Fall 2020. It makes the most sense when you look at it in context of the brand.”

— Amy Smilovic

Tibi Fall-Winter 2020

A very artistic approach to the 23 year exploration and journey of Tibi. When designers reflect on their brands, they begin to tell a story, that may be different from the typical runway. Something I’ve been noticing a lot of brands do latley (some not presenting during NYFW at all).

During seasons away from the traditional runway format, designers often note that they use the time to reflect on their brands – what’s important, what’s working, what doesn’t, etc. For Amy Smilovic, stepping away from the runway format meant focusing on Tibi’s past, present and future. Her conclusion: that her fall collection would best be seen through an immersive presentation. The result was an archival cum new collection cum art gallery cum grab-and-go Tibi merchandise market all wrapped into one digestible presentation held at the brand’s Soho store.

A gray suit blazer had lapel buttons that could be criss-crossed for a twisted effect and industrial straps on sleeves for cinching, grounded with matching culotte shorts and flat, knee-high leather boots. There were loads of really good boots (among other footwear styles, including a collaboration with Clark’s) — from lug sole and chunky to square-toed and sleek.  The designer wanted to communicate the idea that aspiration is a mind-set — your perfect trip can be in your own backyard, not just a far-flung location (often seen on Instagram). Interesting knits, a variety of leather layers, unfussy occasion dresses and plenty of modern suiting offered options for the Tibi woman, wherever her journey might take her.