While I definitely get excited to see the fashion month shows from the major houses, one of the things I look forward to the most every season are the up-and-coming brands. They’re the ones that usually leave me feeling the most inspired, from the unbridled collections to the shows that feel more like performance art. It's a special time to discover something new, whether it’s a familiar name continuing to challenge conventions or coming across a designer I haven’t heard of before.

This kind of discovery is one of my favorite parts of my work, and fashion month is the perfect time for it. As runways always do, this inevitably influences the ways we think about shopping for the season ahead.

For S/S 25, I wrote about the emerging designers that I loved at New York Fashion Week. This season, I'm expanding my focus to the entire F/W 26 fashion month calendar. Below, shop the designers that stood out to me on the latest runways across every city, from Copenhagen to Paris.

Fashion Month F/W 26 Emerging Designers

Brands to remember: Nicklas Skovgaard, OpéraSport, Caro Editions, Paolina Russo

Copenhagen Fashion Week consistently has some of the coolest brands in any market. This season, Nicklas Skovgaard, OpéraSport, Caro Editions, and Paolina Russo especially caught my eye. For me, Caro Editions truly epitomized the glamorous dressing trend, and it was one of the standout collections of the week. I’m also currently eyeing an OpéraSport baseball hat or bag for myself.

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Brands to remember: Gabe Gordon, Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen, Mel Usine, Jane Wade, Colleen Allen, Pipenco

Living in New York, my hometown fashion week is, of course, New York Fashion Week. At Gabe Gordon, knitwear remains the signature, and there was a timely nod to ice skating as well. Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen’s post-show press release cited “pre-industrial pregnancy corsets, sanitary belts, and maternity wear” as references, with materials like secondhand linens and vintage nylon bringing that vision to life.

Mel Usine, which debuted this past spring, continued building on its foundation with a second collection drawing from historical research, French lore, and medieval dressing. And Jane Wade’s The Summit brought her workwear lens outdoors, leaning into performance and expedition wear, including a shoe collaboration with Sorel.

Others who left the biggest impression on me include Colleen Allen, who has become one of the most beloved names at NYFW for editors, and Pipenco, a one-of-a-kind fantastical line designed by Romanian designer Lorena Pipenco.

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Brands to remember: Conner Ives, Chopova Lowena, Tolu Coker, Petra Fagerström, Pauline Dujancourt, Lucila Safdie

London Fashion Week truly might be my favorite part of the fashion month calendar. Beyond the household names like Burberry and Vivienne Westwood, I always love keeping up with the designers coming out of Central Saint Martins, along with the other emerging brands that show each season. For F/W 26, my top shows were Conner Ives, Chopova Lowena, Tolu Coker, Petra Fagerström, Pauline Dujancourt, and Lucila Safdie, many of which can be shopped at Nordstrom, Net-a-Porter, and Farfetch.

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Brands to remember: Avavav, Florania, Institution by Galib Gassanoff, Casa Preti

I like seeing what Avavav does each Milan Fashion Week. The label consistently puts on theatrical (and often satirical) shows with an absurdist approach to design. Founded in Florence and now based in Stockholm, it’s become known for its tongue-in-cheek runway presentations, and this season was no different. Beyond that, Florania, Institution by Galib Gassanoff, and Casa Preti were also particularly memorable.

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Brands to remember: Julie Kegels, Hodakova, Matières Fécales, Vaquera

Along with LFW, Paris Fashion Week has my heart. Some of the highlights included baby blue tights at Julie Kegels, a makeshift bra made of teacups at Hodakova, jaw-dropping, over-the-top couture-inspired looks at Matières Fécales, and an unexpected twist on bridalwear (with a baby's breath bouquet) at Vaquera, as pictured above. In terms of incorporating these brands into my own wardrobe, Vaquera's Pretty Boy T-Shirt, which has a graphic of a Chihuahua (my favorite dog), is currently on my wish list.

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Lauren Chan is a Who What Wear editor in residence, model, former award-winning fashion editor, and founder of Henning, a luxury plus-size clothing label.

Among this season's top runway trends are super-high necklines, pillbox hats, and, most notably, volume in the places that fashion has long told us to avoid appearing voluptuous: on thighs, midsections, shoulders, and arms. Technically speaking, it should make sense that the fall/winter 2025 and spring/summer 2026 trend of exaggerated hips—shown by disruptive designers like Duran Lantink—would move to other parts of the body. I imagine fashion fans have had a mixed set of reactions to this wandering weight…

Some must be confused, seriously and utterly perplexed that the industry's elite now find appearing larger attractive. Others, likely with lived experience in bigger bodies, might be deeply offended or, conversely, relieved. I find myself in the latter camp, letting out a sigh of relief at feeling "allowed" to look bigger. The idea of playing with my body and its proportions via clothing makes me feel as if there's permission use fashion as it is intended, for expression and art rather than an omnipresent tool of minimization. I feel as if I can finally scream, "Fuck all of those years—no, decades—of flattery."

It's a good thing I'm on board with the unflattering trend because it was everywhere at New York Fashion Week. RuPaul's Drag Race's costume designer Zaldy presented volume in the form of structured suede leg sleeves. The Vivienne Westwood–ification of silhouette is undeniable and is being reinterpreted bigger and better by brands like Collina Strada. Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen, an emerging designer known for ergonomic sculpting through material, showed her now-signature uneven-breast corset.

This season gave us the answer to WWRW (What would Rihanna wear?) courtesy of A$AP Rocky's AWGE collection: boxy PVC shirting. Even skirts over pants are back at Diotima, Campillo, and Sandy Liang—a far, far cry from the skinny-jeans era. At Showpony's debut, hair was used to create full hips and thighs, something we've seen Chris Horan style on Charli XCX with similar fur and draping. From heritage brands like Calvin Klein to newly minted LVMH Prize semifinalist Lii, suiting is oversize and structured to sit away from the body.

To be clear, I've spent years working on my body image and advocating for size diversity in fashion. I believe that no designer can decide whether it's okay to exist in a bigger body, but as ever, fashion remains the strongest force in setting the beauty standard. These looks defy the "as small as possible" aesthetic and the fact that designers, together, have shown them at a time when Ozempic has ravaged Hollywood is worth noting. We have learned over the past two decades that the beauty ideal is subjective, switching from early-aughts thin to Kardashian curvy. The belief that it is actually absolute is simply a result of repeated exposure, so a trend featuring larger silhouettes is welcome.

Truer still, fashion is not the place to be looking for the perfect take on size inclusion. One glaring and very problematic point: This trend was almost exclusively seen on super-slim people. Just a few looks were on curve models (Yasmín Moon at Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen, Arnelle Slot at Collina Strada, and Devyn Garcia at Campillo) as part of emerging designers' collections. It seems the old guard left the plus-size models in their shows in very sleek, black looks while sample-size ones were covered in inches of plumage. This observation begs, perhaps, the most important questions. Who is allowed to appear larger? And according to whom?

Adding to the body exemplifies the desire for the 1% to do what's rare. History tells us that being fat in a famine or able to change one's body proportions at will—especially at a runway ready-to-wear or couture price—is luxe. Even now, Skims is selling butt-padded underwear and thigh-padded shapers while Kim Kardashian allegedly reverses her BBL. Through this lens, it all starts to feel disingenuous, like it could easily teeter into the aforementioned offensiveness. How long until we see a designer like Elena Velez, who showed controversial body horror for fall/winter 2026 via looksmaxxing models in prosthetic chin implants and facelift bandages, parade a fat suit down the runway?

One thing I know for sure is that it is important to observe and dissect how fashion is talking about bodies and find our own feelings in the discourse. While I feel relieved that not every outfit I wear needs to make me appear smaller, I know I need to continue to speak up against fatphobia in the industry and for more genuine body diversity. I'll be keeping a critical eye open as we approach the Met Gala, where this year's dress code is "Fashion Is Art" and the exhibit itself, Costume Art, will display "artworks to reveal the inherent relationship between clothing and the body," according to the museum. Until then, take up space, whether it's in or not.

If the past few seasons belonged to stealth wealth and disciplined minimalism, New York just flipped the script. The real winner of fashion week? The printed dress—and more specifically, the floral printed dress. Not the polite, monochrome kind that sits in the background but instead the kind of dress that captures a room's attention before you do.

After seasons dominated by oatmeal tailoring, whisper-thin knits, and the sort of pieces that telegraph taste through restraint, this season's runways felt louder and more intentional. Designers seemed less interested in proving they could do “quiet luxury” and more invested in showing that personality still matters. If show notes placed on runway seats this season are any indication, New York Fashion Week's finest are making clothes for the working woman—and she loves a printed maxi dress she can actually wear.

Proenza Schouler leaned into pattern with the brand's signature urban sensibility intact. The dresses moved, they caught the light with fringe and grommets, all disrupting the neutral monotony we’ve grown accustomed to. The show marks the debut of Jamaican-born designer Rachel Scott at the helm of the label. Her message was clear: Print doesn’t cancel sophistication—it amplifies it.

Similar abstract prints, both floral and not, were seen at Altuzarra, Carolina Herrera, Tory Burch, Anna Sui, and PatBo. Even Khaite, often the poster child for a restrained, cool, monochrome New York chicness, partook in the printed fun in its own way, adapting a black, yellow, and red floral print into a bateau-neck midi dress complete with an ivory ruffled hem and matching gloves. When a label synonymous with sleek restraint embraces floral motifs, you pay attention.

What makes this moment significant isn’t that florals appeared—they always do. It’s that they felt like a rebuttal. After years of algorithm-friendly beige and “if you know, you know” dressing, the printed dress reads as fashion reclaiming its right to be seen. There’s something almost rebellious about choosing a pattern when the cultural mood has rewarded understatement.

In many ways, the rise of the floral printed dress signals a broader recalibration. We’re moving away from clothes that whisper status and toward pieces that communicate identity. The anti–quiet luxury dress isn’t about opulence for opulence's sake. It's about personality and expression. And maybe (just maybe!) it's about having a bit of fun again.

Consider this your permission slip to retire the head-to-toe greige and let your wardrobe bloom a little. New York's finest have spoken. Below, shop a curated edit of printed maxi dresses.

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As beauty editors, we have a wealth of industry knowledge, and we'll be sharing it all in Beauty School, a series that provides step-by-step tutorials, beauty and wellness tricks, unfiltered product recs, and more to help you look and feel your best. You can expect tons of valuable tips, occasional oversharing, and absolutely no gatekeeping—ever. Beauty school is approachable, informative, and welcoming to all, so let’s go.

This time of year, I crave a change in my makeup routine. Gone are the winter's frosted eyes and ruby lips—instead, I'm completely captivated by the dreamy, pink-toned makeup I saw at LoveShackFancy's F/W 26 presentation. If you're a romantic at heart like I am, you're going to fall in love with this look faster than I fell for my ex-situationship on Valentine's Day.

LoveShackFancy's founder and creative visionary, Rebecca Hessel Cohen, teamed up with Tarte to create an angelic look that perfectly complemented the brand's delicate and flowy couture. "I have a deep appreciation for femininity, so this look explored monochrome romance," says Tarte's lead makeup artist, Shyanna Lundi, noting the soft mauve and rose color palette. "Monochromatic makeup keeps the tones cohesive, so the result feels romantic, modern, and effortless—never overdone." I was lucky enough to chat with her backstage before the show, so keep reading this extra-special edition of Beauty School to see the step-by-step of this look.

"We began the look with Shape Tape Stick Concealer ($32) under the eyes and around the nose to create sculpted, luminous skin that feels lit from within," Lundi says. "I used this for its rich coverage and blendability—it perfects the skin while still allowing it to look like real skin. I blended it first with a concealer brush for precision, then pressed it in with my fingers to melt it seamlessly into the skin." What she told me next had me clutching my pearls: no powder. She skips it to keep the skin glowy. And honestly, as someone who loves a dewy complexion, I fully support it.

The key to getting that fairytale flush all the models are sporting is the adorably named Macaron Blush ($38). Lundi used the peachy Honey Blossom shade or rose-toned Strawberry Bliss on the center of the cheeks to create a fresh, natural flush. "It wasn't pulled too high, so it looks softly lit-from-within," she explains. Next, she applied the Park Ave Princess Bronzer ($48) on the forehead, cheeks, and nose for a velvety, diffused flush. For the finishing touch, she also stamped the Faux Freckle Pen ($26) atop their petal-soft cheeks.

In keeping with the monochrome look, Lundi reached for the Maneater After Dark Volume II Palette ($55) to softly sculpt the eyes. She applied the pink shade Desire in the crease and deepened it with the mauve shade Wild at Heart on the outer corner of the lid and lower lash line. And because shimmer is never optional, she added SmolderEyes Stick ($26) in Gaze for some much-needed pearlescence. "I pressed it onto the lid with a fingertip for a lived-in luminosity, with a touch near the inner corner to catch the light," she tells me. And no eye look would be complete without fluttery lashes, so she curled the lashes and swiped on the cult-loved Tubing Mascara ($28) as the last step in this dainty, doe-eyed look.

It comes as no surprise that the viral ballet-slipper lips trend made an appearance at the LoveShackFancy show. A tip I learned from Tarte Global Makeup Artist Ciara Glionna is to contour the lips with a deeper mauve-toned lip liner and top it with a cool pink gloss for a plush, multidimensional pout. Backstage, Glionna and Lundi applied the Maracuja Juicy Lip Liner ($23) in Cool Mauve and Maracuja Juicy Lip Gloss ($27) in Pink Lemonade on the models' pouts. For a picture-perfect pout, I recommend pairing this with the lip lift technique, another MUA-approved application trick. Just lightly overline your top lip in an "X" shape, fill in the Cupid's bow, and line your bottom lip. Then, blend it towards the center of your lips and apply your gloss to get a soft, diffused finish. Mwah!

Apparently, fashion week is when all my dreams came true, so in addition to attending the presentation, I was lucky enough to have my own backstage glam moment with Glionna. She re-created the monochrome romance look on me for a night at the ballet, and it was pure perfection. We took some creative license with it, adding a nude liner to brighten my eyes. (You know I love this trick.) Then, to dial up the drama for the evening, she added falsies and swiped some smoky shadow on my lower lashline. The pics say it all—if you want to feel like royalty, try this dreamy makeup look.

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It's official: Fabric-inspired manicures are having a major moment. From airy chiffon nails to pretty tulle tips to romantic sets that evoke a sheer lace overlay, an increasing number of beauty fans are gunning for silky textures at the salon. And according to celebrity manicurist Holly Falcone—lead nail artist at Sandy Liang this New York Fashion Week—the trend is showing no signs of slowing down. Enter taffeta nails, the most playfully elegant version I'll be copying this spring and beyond.

Imagine a rustling taffeta gown. Notice its smooth, crisp texture and slightly shimmery sheen? That's exactly the effect Falcone wanted to achieve for Sandy Liang's F/W 26 nail look. Using soon-to-be-launched polishes from Celisse (of which Falcone is the founding creative director), she glazed models' tips in pearl-pink and ice-blue hues that catch the light just like the silky material.

"[They're] inspired by Marie Antoinette, like the satin color of her ribbons," Falcone tells Who What Wear backstage. "Do we call it moire? Do we call it taffeta? It's fabric-inspired nails, almost like how Sandy uses a bow or ribbon as a trim." I'd say taffeta is just the right moniker (though "moire nails" does have a nice ring to it, no?), and I can totally see the Marie Antoinette influences in those pearlescent pastels.

While this nail look technically accompanied Sandy Liang's fall 2026 collection, it already has legs as a year-round trend. Pastels, after all, practically scream spring, and the metallic sheen gives them a cool-girl edge that pairs beautifully with a neutral, winter-coded outfit (gray, black, brown, navy, et al.).

We can expect to see taffeta nails cropping up long before the runway looks drop—I'll be asking for them at my next salon appointment, for what it's worth—so you'd be wise to wear fabric-inspired polishes before the trend completely takes off. Note: Celisse's exact hues aren't available at the moment (I'm waiting with bated breath to snag that frosted blue!), but you can always layer a shimmery top coat (like this one from Essie) over the brand's classic Babydoll or Vanity shades. In the meantime, discover similar taffeta-like polishes below.

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New York Fashion Week outfits can easily veer into performance territory, and it took me a few years in my career to learn the art of wearability and how important it is. The street style moments are the perfect opportunity to show off and wear something jaw-dropping, but it can be overdone. This season, I wanted to pick out outfits that I would repeat so I could truly feel like myself while heading off to the shows. I'm always quick to save the looks that feel most grounded in reality on Pinterest because I want to be truly inspired.

As I was getting dressed this season, I kept asking myself one question: Would I still wear this if there were no photographers outside? The outfits that passed that test are the ones that truly matter to me—the ones rooted in comfort, personal style, and longevity. These looks weren't about chasing trends or dressing for shock value. They were built around pieces I genuinely love and would reach for regardless of my calendar. From coats that carried entire outfits to simple combinations I know I'll repeat, these are the fashion week outfits I'd happily wear again and again long after the shows are over. Anyone want to snag a dinner res next week? I'll be wearing the same thing.

The Wallet-Friendly Leather Jacket

On one of the first nights of fashion week, the outfit I had in mind simply didn't look exactly how I had envisioned it, so I made something up out of the clothes I considered to be wardrobe staples in my closet. A slip dress on top of pants and a leather jacket anyone on a budget needs to know about completed my look.

The Disco-Friendly Mini

Retrofête had a party at one of the hottest members clubs in town, so naturally, I had to wear one of the brand's stunning designs. This party dress was the ultimate head turner.

The Color Pop

In honor of Lunar New Year, I pulled out quite the color wheel for this event hosted by Charles and Keith. I knew I had to wear this pair of shoes that made for the perfect pop of red, but styling them with a muted dress just felt way too obvious and boring. I decided to make a statement with this bright-orange-and-burgundy ensemble and had no regrets.

The Compliment-Magnet Sweater

I've seen It girls all over New York City wearing leather shorts with tights this winter, so the pairing had to be part of my fashion week attire. This bold and fun sweater made for the perfect match. Plus, I finally found a pair of black boots that were actually made for walking.

The Warmest Wool Coat You'll Ever Meet

I'm such a dress girl, so this gorgeous gray moment had to come in my suitcase with me. Styling it with an equally glam overcoat was absolutely the move.

The Mr. Big–Approved Suit

Fashion week is the time of year to experiment with your wardrobe, and since I normally lean into my feminine energy, I felt it was finally time to try a look outside of my comfort zone. The end result was the ultimate Mr. Big moment.

The Ideal Saturday Look

For a day ahead of the shows that involved a lot of press appointments and errands, I wanted to wear something that was a step above my usual "running around" attire. After many failed outfit combinations, I found that these pieces fit perfectly together.

The Mini Shorts Worth Wearing in the Winter

Probably my most complimented look, this set from Yuhan Wang was a work of art. Styling it with leather gloves and oversize sunglasses was the ultimate power move. Plus, I found this Vestiaire Collective bag to be one of the coolest vintage moments I've had in a while.

The Jaw-Dropping Dress

I attended a dinner to close out the week with Meshki, and this dress had the ultimate wow factor. It is so flattering, and it's rare I head to the brand's site without having a cart full shortly after. It knows how to make a good dress.

The Girly Girl Moment

LoveShackFancy had an event in collaboration with Spotify at the iconic Doubles Club in NYC, and I have never seen a better decorated party location. White tights and a fur coat made this summery dress feel just right for a February luncheon.

If I had to call out just one non-denim pant trend that's showing the most promise in 2026, corduroy pants would be the obvious answer. They're everywhere all of a sudden on It girls and runway models alike, the latter proving that this isn't just a temporary fad. It's a style that will live on throughout the year and likely into 2027. Cords aren't like jeans, in that you can wear them with just about anything and make them look chic and put-together. They require a little bit of finesse to avoid looking like your dad or grandpa in the dated bottoms. There is one easy way, though, to make them appear more elevated and sleek: pair them with brown boots.

For proof of this successful combo, just see the corduroy-pant outfit Laura Harrier recently posted to her Instagram Stories. The actress has been traveling in an unknown wintry destination for the past week or so, posting photos and videos of her journey along the way. In one, she can be seen donning a chocolate-brown coat and matching scarf from Almada Label, which she styled with tan corduroy pants and brown boots—a perfect duo every time. She finished off the ensemble with oversize sunglasses and a Balenciaga Le City Bag.

On Laura Harrier

On Laura Harrier: Almada Label Deja Doublé Coat ($1150) and Micha Doublé Scarf ($335); Balenciaga Le City Bag Small ($2550)

In addition to being a favorite among It girls like Harrier, Jennifer Lawrence, and Elsa Hosk, corduroy pants are making it big on the runways this season. So far, we've only seen a handful of collections hit the runway for fall/winter 2026 (London Fashion Week just kicked off, and Milan and Paris are still to come), but the cords at Tory Burch's show in New York were a strong start. They were some of the most talked-about pieces in the curation, and two pairs were featured—one in a more natural cognac and another in a peachy pink-orange. The first, naturally, was styled with a pair of green-brown boots, which goes to show just how naturally this pant-and-boot combo goes together.

On the Runway

Convinced to make room in your pant collection for a pair of cords? Keep scrolling to shop the best options on the market right now. Plus, if you don't yet own a pair of brown boots, I went ahead and included a few buy-worthy styles.

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I'd legitimately sell my soul for some sunny, balmy weather right now (Punxsutawney Phil, you're in the doghouse), but dare I say I'm already eager for some fall beauty? Blame the breathtaking crop of hair, makeup, and nail looks at New York Fashion Week, where designers paired their rustic yet polished and "artfully askew" fall/winter collections with runway glam that subverts expectations. From the deconstructed lips at Proenza Schouler to the unexpected splashes of color at TWP, Michael Kors, and Carolina Herrera, it's clear that beauty this year will be playful, bold, and anything but perfect. I, for one, am fully ready for it.

While the collections themselves won't be available until fall rolls around, you can get a running start on the beauty trends poised to shape the months ahead—and trust me, they sure will. Consider the baby-doll beauty trend we saw this past autumn, which initially debuted on the Marc Jacobs, Thom Browne, and Christian Cowan runways last year, or models' bold fringe at the Anna Sui and Christopher John Rogers F/W 25 shows, which sparked a bevy of bang trends. We can expect a similar trickle-down effect from the 10 looks below, so scroll on to get acquainted.

Low Ponytails

When it comes to hair trends, we can expect voluminous, intricate updos to make way for lower, looser twists. Consider models at Proenza Schouler, who donned "quiet" ponytails down the runway, or the next-day knots seen at LoveShackFancy. "It's a little more romantic. It's softer, a little more lived-in," celebrity hairstylist Brent Lawler says backstage regarding the latter. "[Like] she loves to party, but she also loves poetry." Even braids this season followed a similar, simple fashion—like at Tory Burch, where simple plaits hung close to the nape of the neck.

Seen Backstage

Bottom Eyeliner

I can't even begin to count how many bottom-eyeliner looks we saw this season. From the crisp strokes at Ashlyn and Christian Cowan to the feline lines at Sergio Hudson to the smoked-out wings at Tory Burch, it's clear that this fall, we'll all go heavy on the kohl pencil. It's arguably the easiest way to add a bold statement, as tracing your bottom waterline requires a lot less effort than, say, a razor-sharp wing. It's also gloriously retro, giving '60s Sophia Loren (as seen at Sergio Hudson) or '90s grunge (like the edgy looks at Ashlyn), depending on your technique.

Seen Backstage

Hair as the Main Accessory

Remember when we predicted that hair "clothing" details would take the main stage during fashion week? Well, consider us trend fortune tellers because hairstyles have officially become accessories in their own right. This couldn't be more evident than in Evanie Frausto's first fashion collection, Showpony—a line of "wearable hair" using materials recycled from his work as a celebrity hairstylist. You might not don a full-body wig like the models on his debut runway, but you can select outerwear that closely matches the color and texture of your own strands, as if your tresses were cascading into one continuous silhouette. If you can't tell where your hair ends and your outfit begins, you're doing it right.

At Christian Siriano, swoopy hair "scarves" took over the runway, as if models had a permanent Olsen tuck. "As New Yorkers, we know a hair scarf moment," lead hairstylist Lacy Redway tells me backstage. So why not make it intentional? The braided halo crowns at Cult Gaia—fashioned by Frausto—are also a work of art, resembling Joan of Arc–like armor without any added embellishments.

Seen Backstage

Something Askew

Rachel Scott's first Proenza Schouler collection embraced the artfully askew, from rumpled dresses to irregular buttons and unconventional tucks. The accompanying glam followed a similar assignment, as lead artist Thomas de Kluyver intentionally distorted three classic makeup looks: mascara, which was deliberately clumpy thanks to delicate metal foils; eyeliner, which was deconstructed with one swipe on the lid and one across the bottom waterline; and lipstick, which was purposefully smudged. No detail was too "perfect," which is exactly what makes it work.

Similarly, at Collina Strada, models sauntered down the runway with intentional hat hair—just one tuft sticking up from the crown of their heads. "This idea actually came from my son," lead hairstylist Mustafa Yanaz shares backstage. "He started to wear hats, and when he takes it off after a long day, he always has a swirl on top. I'm like, 'I need to put that in this show.'" Gaze closely at the manicures at Cinq à Sept, and you'll find another sneaky, off-kilter detail: a matte topcoat covering only half of the nail plate. "It's spontaneous but structural," lead nail artist Amy Lin tells me of the geometric slash.

Seen Backstage

Hollowed Eyes

Designers have eschewed the concealer for a few seasons now, but we're seeing the hollowed effect growing more and more intense—almost vampire-like, which was the exact inspiration at Collina Strada, makeup artist Dick Page shares backstage. For a slightly subtler effect, feel free to replicate the "'90s grunge meets Zoë Kravitzcool" glam from Bronx and Banco, which features a halo of smoky brown shadow around the eyes, or the "sleepy girl" makeup seen at Sandy Liang. "It's like she's rubbing her eyes," lead makeup artist Romy Soleimani says backstage as she runs a rosy-brown pencil underneath a model's waterline. "She still looks kind of fresh, but she has a little bit of sleep under the eyes with taupe and pink."

Seen Backstage

Vermillion Accents

A typical fall beauty color story includes rich berries and moody plums, so consider my surprise when I saw fiery pops of red (not burgundy) across this season's runways. Take Michael Kors's and Proenza's collections, for example, which were punctuated by bright vermillion lips, while models' claws at Kim Shui were coated in intense scarlet. Red is timeless, of course, but if you're one to save your more vibrant shades of crimson for the warmer months, don't bother—red-hot glam appears especially striking against a cozy winter silhouette.

Seen Backstage

Petal-Pink Cheeks

Similarly, delicate pink blush trumped berry-stained cheeks (quintessential for fall) across shows—namely, TWP, LoveShackFancy, Kim Shui, and Ralph Lauren—making a case for a pretty, romantic flush this season. (I blame Wuthering Heights!) Whether you opt for a softer shade of pink à la TWP or a high-impact metallic like the "icy princess" looks at Kim Shui, don't be afraid to lean into the cooler-toned hue. You'll look perfectly windswept, or as Romero Jennings, lead artist at Kim Shui, describes backstage, "Frozen from the winter but still chic."

Seen Backstage

Metallic Punches

So long, moody, burnished metallics. This fall, we'll see vibrant shimmers in an array of bold colors, like the platinum Cupid's bows and earlobes at Collina Strada, the chrome lips at Prabal Gurung, and the gleaming purple eyes at Carolina Herrera. Not into metallic makeup? Commit to a lustrous nail look à la Alice+Olivia (fashioned by celebrity nail artist Miss Pop) or Sandy Liang, the latter of which has a subtle, satin-like sheen inspired by Marie Antoinette.

Seen Backstage

Deep Side Parts

Side parts have officially taken over the beauty space, from runway shows to the red carpet—and the deeper they are, the more iconic. "We took a '60s-slash-'90s approach to the side part," notes lead hairstylist Garren of the Bardot-inspired topknots at Anna Sui, while models at Christian Cowan and Sandy Liang sported polished blowouts with side bangs. "[It's] kind of a Veronica Lake–inspired side part but with beveled ends," Justine Marjan, lead stylist at Christian Cowan, says of the look backstage.

Seen Backstage

Statement Wings

From punchy, sharp wings to colorful flicks, eyeliner looks were certainly en vogue on this season's runways—just consider the ultra-sharp lines at LaQuan Smith, the '60s Sophia Loren–inspired eyes at Sergio Hudson, and the purple and teal baby wings at Ulla Johnson. Key artists (such as Raisa Flowers at LaQuan Smith and Soleimani at Ulla Johnson) even decided to forgo the heavy lashes so laser focus would remain on the eyeliner.

"The LaQuan girl is very sexy and edgy, but she's also a glam girl," Flowers shares backstage. "We tied that in by adding black liner and making the eyes really bold this time." For a softer look that still makes a statement, do like Soleimani and opt for a colorful flick. "It's very clean and minimal, but instead of using brown or black, plum and teal is your neutral," she notes. "That's your little accessory."

Seen Backstage

I vividly remember the first time I came across Jeanne Damas during the earlier days of Instagram. I even recall trying to find her exact lip combo back when she would blend two lipsticks together and apply them with her fingers for that soft, blurred finish. She quickly became one of the most popular modern-day references for French style.

Since then, she's remained known for her effortless aesthetic and is now a designer as well, having launched her brand Rouje in 2016. For this February's New York Fashion Week, Damas shares her diary, including the Ralph Lauren show, a Rouje event, and the Tory Burch show.

What are some of your favorite New York tips?

I always stay at the same hotel. I love building habits when I travel. It makes me feel at home instantly. I love staying in neighborhoods filled with young, creative energy. It's incredibly inspiring. In Paris, we don't always experience that same avant-garde spirit in such an intense way. It gives me so much inspiration for Rouje. I love that mix of youth, diversity, and creativity. It actually reminds me a bit of Belleville. As a mom, one of my best tips for flying to NYC is to take melatonin on the plane and try to sleep properly. It really helps fight jet lag and arrive feeling fresh and ready.

Favorite moment of the trip?

My getaway to The Met between two fashion week appointments to discover the exhibition Seeing Silence by the Finnish painter Helene Schjerfbeck. A moment of calm to discover this artist. The Met is a bit of a must-stop whenever I come to NYC; there's always something to see.

The best thing you ate or drank?

The best BLT is definitely in New York. I love having it as a second breakfast at Dimes, sometimes even grabbing one to take away before heading back to Paris. And Le Dive for a pastis. It has one of the only terraces in the summer, which makes it feel like a little Parisian escape.

Favorite shops, restaurants, and places to go?

For years, my first stop in NYC was Maryam Nassir Zadeh. Now, I feel like I need to discover a new ritual address. Of course, I love vintage shopping: Ellen Vintage, Desert Vintage, and Duo are always on my list. Bar Oliver is perfect for drinks. Le Chêne is a beautiful new French restaurant I tried this week—modern cuisine, very "fooding," and absolutely incredible. The MoMA is always a good idea, and I also love visiting galleries like Grimm, PPOW, or 1969 Gallery.

A trend you're already seeing everywhere?

I arrived wearing my Blundstones without realizing that basically everyone in New York already had them, but honestly, when it's -20°C, you understand why.

What was your approach to packing? I'd love to hear about the essentials that you made sure to bring!

I always travel with my father's baptism medal. It's my little ritual so the plane doesn't crash. My perfect sleep kit is essential: melatonin, earplugs, my own pillow, and a silk eye mask. I'm a bit of a princess and the pea when it comes to sleep. I need my routine, no matter what. I brought a hair diffuser (because of the American plugs), my toiletry bag, and simple makeup—a face palette and tinted balms. A big bag is key so I can walk around all day with all my essentials. To survive the New York cold, [I have] Damart thermal layers, a Rouje neck warmer, good boots, and shearling pieces. It was also the first time I packed workout clothes to go to the gym. I actually recommend exercising in the morning when you're jet-lagged. It helps reset your body.

You also launched an exclusive preview of your new collection while you were in town at Rouje's SoHo store. How would you describe the new pieces?

The new collection is inspired by Ilona and Carole—strong, inspiring women with that effortless, timeless femininity. It's about confidence, subtle sensuality, and pieces that feel both iconic and easy to wear.

This year is Rouje's 10th anniversary. Are there any things you can share that you have on your bucket list for the next 10 years of Rouje?

Opening a Rouje café, something like a madeleine de Proust, a coffee shop that feels nostalgic and deeply connected to Rouje's universe. Organizing our first big show but maybe in a more artistic way, very Rouje. Perhaps something involving actresses. Opening more boutiques in Europe or maybe a permanent space in Asia. Continuing and deepening our support of Maison des Femmes de Saint-Denis and developing the lifestyle side of Rouje: exploring my passion for interiors, creating special pieces—maybe even things for my daughter—and continuing collaborations with French and European artisans.

Is there anything else you'd like to include?

New York always reminds me why I love creation so much. The energy is intense, bold, fearless. It pushes me to dream bigger.

Ralph Lauren Fall 2026 Show

Fall 2026 trendspotting: You'll find all the very classic suits, very New Yorker style, and the set is also very beautiful.

What you wore: I was wearing a buttoned, tailored dress with a belt, a small vanity bag, and a high-collared shirt.

Rouje Collection Preview at the SoHo Store

What you wore: One of my favorite dress from the next collection.

Tory Burch Fall/Winter 2026 Show

Standout moment: To see Tory backstage 10 years after she invited me to the Met Gala.

Fall 2026 trendspotting: Tory Burch, colorful and satin slip dresses in a very NYC style.

What you wore: I was wearing a very "me" look with rolled-up jeans (which are really coming back into trend), a small buttoned gray cardigan, a gorgeous shearling coat, and a leopard bag to give the whole outfit a twist.

Shop Damas's Suitcase

Tiffany Reid is a Who What Wear editor in residence, fashion executive, freelance stylist, and brand consultant who most recently served as the senior vice president of fashion for Bustle Digital Group. She recently launched a YouTube series, Tried + True, in which she walks viewers through the latest trends.

New York Fashion Week is here again, and it feels like it came out of nowhere. Right on cue, my inbox is overflowing, but it’s my fashion group chat that's really lighting up. No one feels entirely ready for it, but here we are! Mix NYFW’s fast-and-furious arrival with the cold NYC weather (for non–New Yorkers, it felt like -16ºF the other day) to create the perfect storm when getting dressed. With that in mind, this season is all about strategy, and my fashion friends have all the best tricks up their sleeves. Think statement coats, smart layering, and comfortable footwear that can actually survive a day of running from show to show. So, I took to the group chat for last-minute inquiries about invites, last-minute outfit changes, and emergency shoe swaps. My findings? An exact guide to what fashion insiders are actually wearing to shows this season.

Keep scrolling to get an inside look.

Inside the Fashion Week Group Chat

What are you wearing?

NYFW street style this season is going to be rooted in quiet luxury, comfort, and ease. The focus is on timeless, real-world dressing that feels personal and lived-in, rather than performative. Less about being photographed and more about feeling like yourself, much like the shift we are seeing with content on social media. With the cold weather fully setting the tone, insiders are leaning into rich textures like suede and leather, classic silhouettes, and wardrobe staples that balance looking effortlessly cool and comfortable.

Emergency shoe swap

Each season, fashion week schedules feel more packed than the last, with shows and events layered back-to-back across the city. The constant movement uptown, downtown, and everywhere in between has shifted priorities toward practicality. We editors are tired. So that leaves us to the common sentiment that functional footwear reigns supreme—without judgement. From modest-heeled boots to simple flats that can handle a full day without compromising the look, it is a drastic shift from the sky-high stilettos we are used to seeing in the streets.

What bag are you carrying?

If there’s one thing this weather hasn’t messed with, it’s the bag situation. We can still have fun here without compromising the look, even if the longer the day gets, the more stuff we’re lugging around. Some people are brave enough to stick with a mini, while others are fully loaded and prepared for anything that comes with the day (i.e., carrying a giant but still chic tote). Either way, fashion girls will always find an excuse to carry their It bag.

And what's inside?

Are you changing for the afters?

One of the best parts of NYFW is running into people you’ve known forever in the industry, and after a full day of packed schedules and business talk, everyone’s ready to loosen up. The after parties and dinners are where it all really happens, especially when they're hosted by the brands that always throw the best parties (you know who). So yes, we’re changing out of these daytime looks, and no, we’re not afraid to show a little skin!

Although New York Fashion Week technically began on Wednesday, the festivities have felt well underway since the beginning of last week, with plenty of previews, dinners, kickoff parties, and a few early shows for good measure. (Looking at you, Marc Jacobs and Ralph Lauren.)

Now that we've ramped up to the full schedule, the city feels abuzz with energy, and our team of fashion editors is off to the races. Over the past few days, we've been getting the very first glimpses of the fall 2026 collections, but despite the clothing being the week's primary focus, our team is also sure to indulge in a lot of incredible meals; take approximately 1000 Uber, train, and bus rides; and, of course, wear plenty of trend-forward outfits along the way.

If you've ever wondered what a day in the life of a fashion editor attending NYFW is like, you're about to get a taste because I tasked each attendee on our fashion team with reporting on the highlights of each day, from their favorite runway look to the pop culture moment that everyone was talking about to what they ate, drank, and wore. Continue to read Team Who What Wear's fashion week highlight reel and check back each day for updates.

Day 5: Sunday, February 15

WHO: Tara Gonzalez, Senior Fashion and Social Editor

Favorite runway look of the day:

I absolutely loved the entirety of Sandy Liang's F/W 26 collection, which was inspired by Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette and Kiki's Delivery Service, two of my favorite films. The look I can't stop thinking about is a sweatsuit set with pink frills cascading down the front and side styled with fuzzy bunny heels. I was absolutely charmed by the ear flaps of the shoes sauntering along with the model. I also just love how the look is utilitarian (they're sweats, after all!) but also beautiful. That's where Sandy Liang thrives: making clothing for women who really live a life in New York and are always running around but don't want to look as though they just rolled out of bed. Instead, they look like they rolled out of a dream.

The trend you're already seeing everywhere:

I recently wrote about this color trend, but I finally started to see it play out on the runway. I think pastel colors—the kind that make you think of painted Easter eggs and that people choose for their overlay text on TikTok—are going to be big in 2026. They remind me a bit of the color palette everyone loved in 2016, which is on everyone's minds right now, but they're a lot less harsh and neon this time around. The trend is also a fun way to add color to your wardrobe if you're typically more of a neutral person because it is so subtle.

Buzziest pop culture moment of the day:

Post Malone showing up to the Sandy Liang show! I am obsessed with how absolutely unexpected this was. Everyone was texting me about this moment all day. Who knew Post was a Sandy Liang girl? It's cute that he showed up in a Sandy Liang shirt and drank a Bud Light while sitting in the front row. It made no sense but somehow makes so much sense. Sandy Liang truly is for everyone.

Best thing you ate or drank:

I went to Nordstrom's Wolf after the show with two fashion-editor friends and one of their daughters. This spot is truly so underrated and has incredible pasta, salads, and bread. We all shared some french fries and each ordered a kale caesar. Mine was with salmon. To me, that is the quintessential fashion week girl lunch. It's fun fuel and just the right amount of healthy. All that was missing was a dirty martini, but I had to film an episode of our podcast right after, so I opted for a Diet Coke with a slice of lemon instead, which is another fashion-person classic beverage.

Standout moment from in between the shows:

Right after the Sandy Liang show, a lot of guests were idling outside, waiting for cars, or deciding if they should get a coffee and walk around uptown. The brand is always described as for the downtown set, so I loved seeing Liang's clothing all the way on 103rd Street in Manhattan in a totally different context. Unlike other fashion weeks, I think the brands that show at New York Fashion Week really thrive at building community. You see so many girl gangs at all of these shows who are so devoted to the designer and what they create, and I thought it was really sweet to see it all on the streets outside of the show in a place where you wouldn't necessarily expect it.

What you wore:

I always get excited to dress up for the Sandy Liang show because her aesthetic feels so aligned with my own personal aesthetic, which probably has to do with the fact that we both grew up in immigrant families in New York City, went to public high school, and just have very similar life experiences. Liang's clothing helps me tap into my younger self because it is so whimsical and dreamy. It's the kind of clothing I always imagined I'd grow up and wear.

To tap into that look, I wore a vintage pleated Prada skirt and pink suede coat I recently picked up in a vintage shop during Copenhagen Fashion Week, a pair of vintage leopard-print Bottega Veneta boots from The RealReal, my Sandy Liang melon top (one of my favorite pieces in my closet), Sandy Liang hair clips, and a white Coach top-handle bag.

Shop Tara's outfit:

Day 4: Saturday, February 14

WHO: Eliza Huber, Associate Editorial Director

Favorite runway look of the day:

It was a pretty good day for fashion in New York, with both Khaite and Altuzarra showing. Of all the great options, my favorite two looks were the below from Khaite's Park Avenue Armory show. I have such a soft spot for velvet and have been collecting velvet pieces from Khaite's archives for years, so the black dress with a velvet-bow detail struck a chord. On the more wearable, practical side, I also love this dark-wash-denim look. It just feels like the kind of look I'd wear again and again.

The trend you're already seeing everywhere:

Chocolate-brown denim appeared a few times at Altuzarra's show, pushing me to think that the neutral, rich shade could potentially be coming for khaki denim come fall 2026. I love a new denim trend, especially a color trend, and have already started searching for a pair of my own.

Buzziest pop culture moment of the day:

This is so incredibly niche, but Timothée Chalamet sharing childhood photos of Charles Leclerc on his Instagram Stories with "Dream Big" written on them in that now-distinctive shade of orange was by far my best pop culture moment of the day, if not the entirety of NYFW.

The best thing you ate or drank:

It was Valentine's Day, so naturally, I finished off the day with date night. My boyfriend and I went to Café Sabarsky, the Austrian restaurant inside Neue Galerie on the Upper East Side. We split a few dishes—including the veal, which is incredible—and I had a lovely glass of champagne.

Standout moment from in between the shows:

I popped into a resee of Colleen Allen's F/W 26 collection in between shows and fell in love with, well, a few things. Let's just say that I might be putting in a very significant pre-order. Again, I have a velvet problem, so all the gorgeous velvet pieces—many in rich colors that I was surprised to love, like royal purple and burnt orange—stuck with me. I tried on quite a few items, and if you've been thinking about investing in one of her pieces but haven't seen them in real life, I highly suggest it. Everything's even better up close.

What you wore:

Perhaps it was a bit much, but I actually doubled down on pony hair on this day, wearing a Tory Burch pony-hair jacket from the F/W 24 collection with a Veronica de Piante pony-hair coat that has the most beautifully subtle leopard-print pattern on it. With that combo, I kept the rest pretty simple, wearing my favorite pair of Colleen Allen black trousers and my favorite pair of Manolo Blahnik Maysale mules. To add some color, I carried a green Prada Supernova bag that comes out every NYFW at least once.

Shop Eliza's outfit:

Day 3: Friday, February 13

WHO: Kristen Nichols, Associate Director, Special Projects

Favorite runway look of the day:

Elegance meets tailoring at Kallmeyer.

The trend you're already seeing everywhere:

Color! In the spring/summer 2026 collections, we saw more color infused in the shows. That theme is continuing this season at fashion month. Rather than bold head-to-toe color, it's about subtlety and thoughtful styling, such as this orange top layered underneath suiting.

Buzziest pop culture moment of the day:

Rihanna made a NYFW appearance, stepping out to support A$AP Rocky at the AWGE show.

The best thing you ate or drank:

I was finally able to land a reservation at Chez Fifi, and the buzzy restaurant surpassed the hype. From the steak au poivre to the caviar-topped tuna tartare, every bite was perfect. The incredible art collection, including a piece from Joan Miró that hung next to the table, is worth the visit alone.

Standout moment from in between the shows:

Stopping by the Dôen preview. Hot tip: The brand's cult lace-trimmed shorts are dropping in a cotton version soon.

What you wore:

I always feel best when I reach for my wardrobe staples and style them in fresh ways, tapping into how I dress, whether it's fashion week or not. Here, I wore some of my closet MVPs, including a Khaite satin trench coat paired with a vintage Ralph Lauren top, Levi's 501 jeans, Manolo Blahnik heels, a Savette bag, and Celine sunglasses.

Shop Kristen's outfit:

Day 2: Thursday, February 12

WHO: Bobby Schuessler, Shopping Director

Favorite runway look of the day:

I always love the styling and dreamy outerwear pieces at TWP. This look with the maxi shearling vest is still in my head.

The trend you're already seeing everywhere:

Advanced layering 2.0. Unexpected shirting pairings are popping, like a long-sleeve tee underneath a button-up shirt, ensuring that the long sleeves are long enough where they poke out of the cuff of the shirt.

Buzziest pop culture moment of the day:

The queen Martha Stewart sat right by the WWW team at the TWP show. Iconic.

Best thing you ate or drank:

I popped into the MyTheresa party for a delicious vodka martini. Can't go wrong.

Standout moment from in between the shows:

If I have time, I like to change for night events to switch it up. I just got this incredible layered Tibi sweater from Shopbop, and it made its debut this season.

What you wore:

For the daytime shows, I opted for my favorite longline black coat from Soft Goat, a soft Vince sweater in lilac (I'm trying to add more color into my looks this season), and my trusty Chanel 25 bag.

Shop Bobby's outfit:

Day 1: Wednesday, February 11

WHO: Anna LaPlaca, Senior Editor

Favorite runway look of the day:

Tory Burch is the show I look forward to the most each season because the runway is always replete with fresh styling ideas that leave me inspired to go into my own closet and put things together in a new way. The fall 2026 collection was no different, and in particular, I loved the way the designer imagined a classic New Yorker outfit formula—wool coat + trousers + pumps—with a focus on modern silhouettes like a car coat with curved shoulders and glove pumps with a high vamp that make these staple pieces feel as important as ever.

The trend you're already seeing everywhere:

The specific shade of pale teal that was on both the Proenza Schouler and Tory Burch runways. It feels like the autumnal evolution of spring 2026's cerulean color trend.

Buzziest pop culture moment of the day:

Our January cover star, Elle Fanning, attended the Tory Burch show and sat front-row alongside Tessa Thompson and Pamela Anderson.

The best thing you ate or drank:

We had a team happy hour at The Otter inside SoHo's The Manner hotel. Champagne, oysters, and lobster rolls inside a beautiful space? It was perfect.

Standout moment from in between the shows:

I always love running into my editor, stylist, and publicist friends from the industry. It makes the week feel like one big reunion.

What you wore:

I'm rewearing a lot of my favorite pieces this fashion week, and today the star of the show was undoubtedly this croc-embossed knee-length skirt from Tory Burch's fall 2024 collection. (I still need to buy the matching top, so keep your eyes peeled on the secondhand market for me!) I paired it with a red V-neck Rùadh sweater, a mini Balenciaga Rodeo Bag, and a pair of almond-toe pumps that are equal parts comfortable and compliment-generating.

Shop Anna's outfit:

More fall 2026–inspired buys:

Well, well, would you look at that? She's back. "She" as in fashion month, and yes, I gave her a pronoun. It feels like it was just September when we were watching and gabbing about standout designers like Khaite, Colleen Allen, Tory Burch, and more as they unveiled their stunning spring/summer 2026 collections during New York Fashion Week. Now, the fall/winter 2026 New York shows are already behind us.

Of course, the runways were incredible. But just as captivating? The streets. New York Fashion Week street style was top-notch. As a Who What Wear editor based in the city, I attended a fair share of shows and presentations over the past few days and got a front-row seat to how the fashion set is dressing. It may be just me, but it feels like the street style has never been better. Some days, I couldn't walk a single block without subtly snapping a picture of an elegant outfit to keep on file for when I need some inspiration.

If you live in New York, you know the weather hasn't exactly been showing any signs of spring. Instead, it's been bitterly cold. Because of that, staying warm and comfortable was a top priority for showgoers. This is why statement outerwear—styles that are the outfit—were everywhere. Accessories also played a big role: pouch bags and oversize sunglasses, to be exact.

I won't give everything away just yet, but keep scrolling to discover the five New York Fashion Week street style trends I'm predicting will carry us through the end of winter and straight into spring and how to shop them for yourself.

Pretty Printed Coats

For fashion people, certain prints—leopard, plaid, and zebra—function as true neutrals. This explains their prevalence among chic dressers during New York Fashion Week. Take inspiration from the street style looks I've gathered below, but choose a statement coat that resonates with your personal style. It can be anything from a short faux-fur leopard-print jacket and a plaid trench to a mid-length zebra pony-hair piece.

Shop Printed Coats

Slim-Straight Jeans

If you have read any denim stories on Who What Wear lately, you're probably aware that slim-straight jeans are quietly taking the place of baggy jeans. By spring, we anticipate the sleek style will be everywhere. By "slim-straight," we mean a straight-leg cut that offers a more fitted look around the thighs and ankles compared to traditional straight-leg jeans. Importantly, they are not as tight at the ankle as skinny jeans. Though there's a time and place for fitted-on-fitted styling, pair the denim with oversize jackets and sweaters to achieve a balanced look.

Shop Slim-Straight Jeans

Not-So-Basic Leather Jackets

Forget leather blazers and moto jackets—New York Fashion Week's street style definitively signaled that the key trend for 2026 is the non-basic leather jacket. These updated styles retain a classic, timeless silhouette but are elevated with modern details. Look for features such as peplum hems, cinched waists with drawstrings, funnel necks, and unique, artful buttons.

Shop Leather Jackets

Oversize Eyewear

My prediction for New York Fashion Week was correct: Oversize eyewear is the It street style accessory. Having seen this style dominate the spring 2025 runways at major houses like Saint Laurent, Chloé, and Gucci, it was inevitable that it would soon hit the streets. Although it didn't fully take off last spring, it will dominate during the upcoming season. While you can find chic oversize options from those heritage brands, be sure to check out cool, under-the-radar labels such as Jimmy Fairly, Vincent Boulevard, and Thistles for equally stylish options.

Shop Oversize Eyewear

Baggy Black Trousers

It wouldn't be New York Fashion Week without a sea of black trousers. After all, the city is known for its head-to-toe black attire. This season, opposite denim, I spotted black trousers in their baggiest forms, which have an inherently nonchalant ease. They drape just right, never trying too hard. They look intentional yet quietly cool, striking the perfect balance between polish and undone ease. While I saw them with shearling and fur-trimmed coats, you can't go wrong styling them with a belted wool coat, a layered sweater look, or a button-down shirt. And for shoes? Opt for low-profile loafers or ballet flats, and then, come spring, style them with elevated flip-flops.

Shop Black Trousers

Since Khaite's very first runway show during the fall/winter 2019 season, the brand has become one of New York Fashion Week's most highly anticipated showings. It's a guarantee that the attendees will be a who's who of the fashion world and that multiple trends will be set over the 15-minute span of time in which the models populate the runway. Khaite founder and Creative Director Catherine Holstein has proven that she has the magic touch when it comes to designing clothes the coolest dressers on the planet will want to wear by the time the next major shift in seasons occurs. In this case, that would be fall 2026.

Toward the end of NYFW, Khaite's F/W 26 collection debuted on a futuristic runway installation at the Park Avenue Armory. Many of the looks (think head-to-toe black leather) matched the set, but as is often the case with Khaite collections, the sleek, somewhat severe looks were juxtaposed with soft, ethereal ones. For fall/winter 2026, they were in the form of sheer organza dresses, lace slip dresses, and relaxed-fitting gowns with flowing skirts and cinched waistbands.

As someone who studies Khaite's collections closely as soon as they're presented and keeps a close eye on the most popular items once they're available to the public, I've become pretty adept at spotting the major trends to come. Scroll on to see which ones I'm sure the coolest dressers will be shopping for once fall rolls around—straight from the Khaite F/W 26 runway.

Skinny Pants in Velvet, Satin, and Leather

Khaite is one of several NYFW designers who are endorsing skinny pants for fall. Here, they were in the form of dressy velvet, satin, and leather trousers with high waistbands and longline inseams.

Full Midi Skirts

If Khaite has the final word, full midi skirts are picking up where 2025's column-skirt trend left off. That being said, there were a few column-skirt appearances on the Khaite F/W 26 runway, but the full midi skirts felt fresh and elegant, especially given that they were styled with structured pieces.

Witchy Shoes

Khaite is largely responsible for any given season's shoe trends in modern times, so I recommend paying attention to what's on the models' feet if you want a preview. While there was an array of heel styles, most notable were the witchy shoes that were paired with many of the looks. In contrast to the glove-shoe trend, the shoes gave the appearance of being oversize and were made with excess leather that bunched up. Others featured turned-up toes à la The Wizard of Oz.

Military Jackets

Structured, fitted military-style jackets were a prominent trend on the runway. With sharp shoulders, stand collars, and subtle frogging, they proved that the military jackets on the spring/summer 2026 runways of McQueen and Ann Demeulemeester, among others, were no fluke.

Bustles

It's hard to say how the trend will translate from runway to real life, but the bustled skirts and dresses several models wore on the runway looked shockingly elegant and modern. It's a surefire way to stand out at a formal event.

Belt-Loop Chains

Belt-loop chains can give an outfit a '90s grunge feel, but within the context of the F/W 26 Khaite collection, they had a 1970s bohemian feel. The gold chains (often with dangling cross pendants) were attached to models' belt loops and coat buttonholes.

Leather Gloves

Proving her love of leather and what a master she is at contrast, Holstein accessorized many of the models in leather gloves of varying colors and lengths. Even the ones clothed in the romantic lace dresses toward the end of the collection wore them, adding an element of cool surprise.

Emily Bader may not be a morning person, but for Coach, she’ll set the alarm (and dunk her face in ice) without complaint.

It’s New York Fashion Week, and the actress—fresh off the breakout success of My Lady Jane and the buzzy Netflix adaptation of People We Meet on Vacation—is firmly in her leading-lady era, both on screen and in the front row. For the Coach fall/winter 2026 show, Bader arrived with that distinctly downtown ease. Polished but never precious. Cool but in on the joke.

Coach has long perfected the high-low tension between heritage and a little rebellion, and this season leaned all the way in. Think butter-soft leather outerwear, slouchy carryalls, and outerwear with a touch of moto attitude. Bader was especially struck by the drama of it all. “There’s something nostalgic about Coach,” she told Who What Wear while getting ready at her downtown hotel. “It feels very American, very cinematic—but still playful. You can make it your own.”

Her own look nodded to that same effortless edge. A super-low-rise black denim skirt with a flirty back slit, a cropped white Coach tank, slingback heels, and an open leather blazer struck the balance between daring and undone. The inspiration: ’90s Carolyn Bessette chicness—with a little downtown bite.

If her recent roles have proven anything, it’s that Bader understands transformation. On this particular afternoon, her character study was equal parts ingénue and edge—exactly the kind of modern heroine Coach dresses so well. Below, we caught up with Bader in her lead-up to the Coach fall/winter 2026 show.

Do you have any pre-show routine or rituals?

I don’t have any real rituals at this point except for maybe dunking my face in a bucket of ice. It’s safe to say I’m not a morning person, so ice initially helped with that, but now it feels like an anytime thing.

Did you have a favorite look from the Coach fall/winter 2026 collection? The piece you want in your closet immediately?

My favorite look from the collection was this red fur-lined suede coat, open, exposing the model’s body with a very cool low-rise brown pant. There’s something rock and roll about it, and it definitely left an impression on the runway. I was most excited by the collection’s eruption into color through the show. The clothes started in this dark color scheme where it almost felt like a black-and-white movie. And then the color turned on.

I'd love for you to walk me through the outfit you're wearing to the show. What about the pieces you're wearing feels exciting, fresh, and like an authentic representation of your style?

Today I’m wearing something a bit daring for me. I have this super-low-rise black denim skirt (with a very flirty slit up the back, may I add). And a very cropped white Coach tank top. We decided to pair it with an edgy little slingback heel and an open leather blazer. When thinking about the collection, we wanted something that felt effortlessly cool, with a '90s Carolyn Bessette chicness.

Just like the actual garments, beauty and grooming are such an important part in nailing the perfect front-row look. Tell me a bit about your beauty routine and what your inspiration was for your look today.

My beauty routine is relatively simple. Sleep is number one, and I love an overnight face mask. My skin is very sensitive, so I try not to experiment too much before an important event. When I have the outfit, I usually go right to Pinterest to find inspiration—a lot of Keira Knightley photos that are genuinely not a point of inspiration; I just spiritually want to look like her haha. And from that, I usually just come up with it in the moment with my hair and makeup team. They come with so many fun ideas!

What’s your “I’m in New York” food order during fashion week—bagel, slice, chopped salad, bodega run?

My "in New York" food is any and everything. I need a bagel at least once, and then usually some chewy noodles with spicy chili oil or soup dumplings are top of my mind.

When you actually have a free moment in New York during fashion week, how are you spending it?

A free moment in New York is a little weather dependent. If it’s not freezing, I love to just walk. I’ll walk halfway across town window shopping, getting coffees and iced teas, snacking along the way. If it’s winter, I’m inside watching HGTV ordering room service.

Front-row essentials: What must be within arm’s reach once you sit down?

My front-row essentials are gum (the seats are so close together, and you never know who you’re going to talk to) and a charged-up cell phone. My phone is nearly dead constantly, so it takes a real effort to make sure she’s nice and charged. I’m always stunned by the buildings these shows are in. And I must get a picture for the archives.

If this New York fashion week had a soundtrack, what would be playing?

If this New York fashion week had a soundtrack it would be the 24-hour YouTube loop of the wood burning fireplace. Or Led Zeppelin IV.

While scrolling on TikTok mid–New York Fashion Week, I came across a video of Elle Fanning sprawled out on an old orange-and-yellow Subway seat reading a tiny book.

Upon further inspection, I realized this was taken after the Coach F/W 26 show, and the tiny book was actually a bag charm by the brand. The actress, who is nominated for an Oscar for her role in last year's Sentimental Value, attended the show while wearing a whimsical Coach look that featured a long white dress with sparkling star details, a fur-trimmed leather coat, and a plush brown Tabby bag.

Of course, dangling from the Tabby bag was the aforementioned book charm, which was a miniature version of Sense and Sensibility, the 1811 novel by Jane Austin that follows the Dashwood sisters as they navigate love and heartbreak following their father's death.

The bag charms debuted on Coach's last S/S 26 runway show back in September and have entirely revived our love for the accessorized-bag trend we thought we'd leave behind this year. With tiny book charms this cute, how could we?

Shop Coach's cutest bag charms below.

As every NYFW regular will tell you, Tory Burch has become one of the highly anticipated shows of the season, and our team of editors continues to talk about it for months after each collection makes its debut. Tory Burch is known for setting trends across the board each season, and celebrities and fashion people are often spotted in the brand's pieces. Amanda Seyfried, Tessa Thompson, and Pamela Anderson were among those in the front row this year.

The fall/winter 2026 show took place at the Breuer building in the Upper East Side, which is now the headquarters of Sotheby's, which is chic in and of itself. The collection was inspired in part by Bunny Mellon, a horticulturist, landscape designer, and philanthropist, and the brand's show notes state that [the collection] "reflects how women dress now: by instinct, not rules." The colorful, detail-oriented collection was filled with wearable pieces that I can guarantee all the cool Tory Burch fans will be quick to incorporate into their wardrobes before fall even commences.

Keep scrolling to find out which standout trends from the Tory Burch F/W 26 show will be everywhere in a matter of months.

The Cool-Girl Crowd in Attendance

WHO: Amanda Seyfried

WHO: Tessa Thompson

WHO: Pamela Anderson

WHO: Jeanne Damas

WHO: Mary Beth Barone

The Top F/W 26 Trends

Braided Leather Belts

If I had to name one defining piece from the show that will catch on the fastest, it would have to be braided leather belts. They accessorized almost every look that came down the runway and added an effortless, vintage quality to every outfit they were part of.

Gray Leather

I'm certainly not saying that chocolate-brown leather is a thing of the past, but come fall, I predict we're going to be seeing a lot more cool gray leather. On the Tory Burch runway, it came in the form of a pencil skirt and shoes (both heels and flats). The unexpectedness of gray leather as opposed to black or brown is part of what makes it stand out.

Ankle Cigarette Trousers

Given the popularity of cigarette jeans, it should come as no surprise that cigarette trousers are in the pipeline. Many outfits on the runway included the polished ankle-length pants that are more slim-fitting than the trouser trends of recent seasons.

Drop-Waist Dresses

Tory Burch excels in the dress department, so you can always expect a few trends to take shape post-show. This time, it was drop-waist dresses, some seemingly influenced by the styles of the 1920s and some by those of the 1980s. The trend came in many forms—from halter and fitted to long-sleeve and loose.

Peter Pan Collars

The Peter Pan collars on the runway were a far cry from the ones you probably wore as a child. Sophisticated, structured, and often layered under an oversize knit, they're an easy way to achieve old-school elegance this fall.

Fish-Motif Jewelry

The sardine trend is getting a sophisticated update for fall/winter 2026. Many of the Tory Burch models wore silver and muted gold sardine pins and pendant necklaces to adorn their knitwear and drop-waist dresses.

Orange

The Tory Burch F/W 26 runway was filled with colors, both muted and vibrant, and one of the most predominant was of the latter category. Orange was a standout trend on the runway (it's hard to ignore, after all), proving that the hue, which was one of spring/summer 2026's biggest color trends, is continuing on.

It's always leopard print this, tiger print that. What about the reptilian prints out there? They never get any of the glory—until Tory Burch's F/W 26 show earlier this week.

The brand's runway presentation has quickly become one of the most highly anticipated shows on the New York Fashion Week calendar, and this year was no different. The hype around the show isn't just for the incredible clothing, which has become increasingly cool in recent seasons. It's also for the set of Tory girls sitting front row, all of whom epitomize a nonchalant vibe that's hard to describe. You just know it when you see it, and you will always see it at the Tory Burch show.

This season, Amanda Seyfried attended, wearing an impeccable outfit that revealed a belly button ring she's had since she was 17. The unexpected accessory peeked out from her unbuttoned crinkled gold button-down, which she paired with a frosty-blue skirt and the brand's best-selling Pierced heels in a snakeskin print.

If you want to add an animalistic vibe to your look, Seyfried proved that you don't have to default to the most common options. Snakeskin is just as fierce as the big-cat prints and still feels like a neutral. If it goes with a gold top and icy-blue skirt, it'll go with anything. And that's exactly why Seyfried's Pierced snaky Tory heels are going straight onto our mood board and then into our cart.

Shop snakeskin heels below.

With every passing season, Coach continues to strengthen its position as one of New York Fashion Week's most anticipated shows. For fall/winter 2026, Creative Director Stuart Vevers cited a smattering of seemingly discordant inspirations that somehow worked perfectly together as a mosaic of American style. Attendees included Elle Fanning, Emily Bader (who filmed a GRWM vlog just for Who What Wear), Storm Reid, Quenlin Blackwell, Caleb McLaughlin, Odessa A'zion, and many more.

"This collection looks to American fashion as a mindset beyond the bounds of geography—one that extends from Seventh Avenue sportswear to utilitarian workwear, and from youth counterculture to the dreamscape of old Hollywood films," Vevers said in a statement. "It exists in iconography, and memory, and certain experiences we all share." Armed with this background information, continue reading to delve further into Coach's central themes for fall/winter 2026.

1. '70s Sportswear

High school varsity uniforms were a central motif this season. Repurposed vintage jerseys, varsity-striped socks, and '70s-inspired shrunken jackets gave the collection a cool, retro-tinged feel.

2. Youth Countercultures

Per the show notes, "the grit and playfulness of suburban skate culture" inspired the collection's '90s shorts and beat-up skater shoes. "Using crafts with a sense of history, we continue a conversation that connects youth countercultures across decades and geographies," the brand explained.

3. '30s and '40s Hollywood

"Coach returns to the joy of dressing up with a selection of evening gowns inspired by Hollywood styles of the '30s and '40s, which feature fitted waists and padded shoulders and are embellished with cut-outs and sparkling applique," per the press release.

4. Sustainability and Repurposing

This season, Vevers aimed to highlight the benefits of circular fashion with cleverly repurposed items such as an old baseball glove turned into a handbag. "Recycling means sharing," he said in a statement. "Shared clothing unites us. It’s shaped by the lives of others, which we take and adapt into our own lives every day." Upcycled denim and patchwork jackets also fit this theme.

5. Workwear

I usually associate pinstripes with stuffy corporate attire, but Coach just made me realize the pattern shouldn't be relegated to the office. This season, pinstripes were reimagined on easy, draped dresses with tattered hems that wouldn't exactly cut it in the boardroom. Another workwear staple, the messenger bag, also got a cooler, more relaxed update via a slouchy silhouette.

Ralph Lauren showed a rare menswear runway show in Milan this January, and it lit the internet ablaze. It was the first time men’s returned to the runway since 2002, and the looks, which blended the youthful playfulness of Polo and the tailored sophistication of Purple Label, were frankly impeccable. The show was yet another reminder of how the brand has shaped the Americana fashion aesthetic for nearly 60 years but also spoke to the impact Ralph Lauren is having on style right now.

Nearly a month later, the brand presented its fall/winter 2026 womenswear collection at New York Fashion Week, and like the men’s show, it tapped into the effortless elegance and timeless style that Ralph Lauren has mastered. As guests walked into the Jack Shainman Gallery in Tribeca, the Gilded Age palazzo transformed into one of Ralph Lauren’s distinct worlds—this one, a magnificent country estate outfitted with mismatched antique chairs and benches, floors layered with rugs, and hand-painted murals of bucolic landscapes hung on the walls. It set the backdrop for a rustic yet polished collection featuring looks that juxtaposed countryside tweeds and riding boots with rich jacquard florals and velvet evening gowns.

Mr. Lauren was inspired by a “renegade spirit and the confidence of the woman who will wear it in her own personal way, to tell her own story,” he explained in the show notes, adding that the woman he designs for “respects the timeless quality of things from the past but reinvents them for now. Her style is not defined by time. It’s enduring.” Timeless and enduring, yet reinvented—it doesn't get more Ralph Lauren. Ahead, more on the fall/winter 2026 runway show and the key details to know from the collection

Romantic Florals

At this moment in fashion, we're seeing a shift back to romance, whether it's a turn away from quiet luxury or the impact of the Wuthering Heights press tour looks. This turn to romance is also translating to the runways, including Ralph Lauren's return to beautiful florals. Executed in blazers, embroidered knits, and printed trousers, each piece has a patina and antique quality that further enhances the romance of the florals.

Printed Scarves

Ralph Lauren brought a subtle bourgeois sensibility to the collection with printed silk scarves tied at the neck. Tucked underneath the lapel of a leather jacket, a blazer, or a tapestry jacket, the scarves add nuance and depth to the looks. The pieces arrive on the runway at a moment when printed scarves are on the rise, further proving that the trend is here to stay.

A Touch of Leopard

The collection presented a rich tapestry of prints and textures, and the rugged countryside aesthetic naturally incorporated tweeds and wools. Leopard was an unexpected print within the milieu, yet it worked seamlessly with the earthy tones on the runway.

The Essential Earrings

Long, dangling earrings were the outfit-finishing jewelry item that dominated the show. They were styled with casual turtlenecks and velvet evening gowns alike, which made one thing clear: They're a key accessory to invest in, regardless of the occasion.

Heavy Metal

Rich hues of silver and gold took center stage on the runway, with sculptural jackets, floor-sweeping skirts, and intricately beaded pieces that were crafted by artisans. Paired with knits and more casual textures, the metallic pieces help to strike a balance of casual and polished that Ralph Lauren is so adept at.

Elegant Eveningwear

Ralph Lauren excels at timeless eveningwear, and the brand presented a finale featuring beautiful velvet gowns with strapless silhouettes and plunging necklines that are primed to hit the red carpet. They'll also serve as fresh inspiration for events with a formal dress code.

A flurry of newly appointed creative directors has upended fashion's status quo in recent months, but don't be distracted. Today belongs to Rachel Scott. On February 11, she staged her first Proenza Schouler runway show since taking the helm of the brand founded in 2002 by Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez (who, in turn, skedaddled over to Loewe last spring). She continues to design for her own label, Diotima, which is also on the NYFW calendar.

In front of an audience that included Olivia Munn, Jemima Kirke, and Hari Nef, Scott presented her vision of "a new Proenza Schouler woman, a woman shaped by thought, intuition, contradiction," according to the show notes. "To the unknowing eye, she is put-together, precise, deathly punctual. Those who recognize her sense that there is more to her: The Proenza Schouler woman for fall 2026 rejects perfection as constraint. She is composed yet mysterious and cinematic. She is disciplined but capricious—human." How exactly does that translate to clothes and accessories? Continue reading for my breakdown of the fall/winter 2026 collection.

The First Women's Collection by Rachel Scott

Scott is embracing the artfully askew for fall/winter 2026. Models walked down the runway wearing smudged lipstick and rumpled dresses that looked like they could have been fetched out of the hamper 10 minutes before showtime. The woman Scott had in mind "was in a rush … moving quickly and with purpose," as the press release explained. Other off-kilter details included irregular buttons and unconventional tucks.

The Next Step

In the show notes, Proenza Schouler explained that this season's "footwear explores distortion: grounded pumps with exaggerated square toes, sharply elongated pointed kitten heels, satin sandals with shearling footbeds. Ruptured fringe carries the collection's sense of controlled friction into footwear."

It's All in the Details

Scott's collection balanced big, conceptual themes with pocket-sized particulars best viewed up close. The grommets, which "interrupt precision" according to the show notes, were definitely worth zooming in on—as were the prominent buttons and fringed edges.

The It-Bag Contenders

Proenza Schouler is no stranger to the It bag. Over the last two decades, several styles earned hall-of-fame status, a reputation that Scott likely wants to maintain. "Bags revisit familiar silhouettes—such as the archival Hex bag, a clutch, and a bowler bag—through mixed materials, combining calf hair, cashmere suede, French calf, and kidskin."

Manus et Machina

When I read the show notes, a Latin phrase came to mind: manus et machina. Meaning "hand and machine," it was the theme of the 2016 Met Gala, which explored the intersection between handicrafts and technology in fashion design. In 2026, Scott's take on this concept involved "photographic imagery of night orchids [that were] manipulated and reworked, retaining film-like borders, traces of process left visible—placing digital precision alongside the hand, reflecting an approach to craft that respects tradition and embraces modernity."

Here's a sentence I never thought I'd write: Pamela Anderson and I have the same facialist. While the star doesn't normally opt for getting-ready treatments in the traditional sense—I'm told she rarely gets facials—she decided to see Jess Bowers for a hydrating, sculpting session ahead of New York Fashion Week. (Anderson attended the Tory Burch show, then is jetting off to film a new project.) Not that she needs my stamp of approval, but I'd say an hour with Bowers is an amazing call. With a cozy studio hidden in the West Village and a massage-based protocol that makes you feel so relaxed you're practically floating off the treatment bed, Bowers is the aesthetician I go to whenever I want to quietly disassociate from reality—an "IYKYK" facialist of the highest regard, in my humble opinion. It seems Anderson would agree, as she deems the experience her "dream facial."

"It was such a relaxing, releasing facial, especially after just finishing a film and before fashion week gets going," Anderson exclusively tells Who What Wear. "We all carry stress in our faces, and it takes time to truly wind down. At one point I even fell asleep, which says everything." Bowers doesn't use a ton of nifty gadgets or tools, but that's the beauty of her massage-based treatments: Her own two hands supply the sculpting power. And for what it's worth, I too have drifted off under Bowers's magic touch.

Of course, she used Sonsie skincare products for the entire regimen. "It was the first time I used just five products in a facial, and it was so easy," Bowers tells me shortly after leaving Anderson's hotel room. "The products have such great slip that I was able to keep massaging, going a little bit deeper to give her that deep sculpt and lift." First, however, Bowers kicked off the treatment with a relaxing head massage. "Your face doesn't end at the hairline," Bowers notes, referring to the delicate nerves and muscles in your scalp. Any tension up top can pull on your facial skin and contribute to wrinkles down the line, so she always starts her treatments by releasing any tightness. "I think calming all that also makes the skin more malleable," she notes.

After cleansing her skin with Sonsie's Cleansing Mousse, she massaged in the Super Serum followed by the Adapt Cream, making sure to float her hands in an upward motion, especially along the jawline and cheekbones. "The Adapt Cream really tones down the redness. Using it as a mask within the facial—because I used so much of it—really helps even out the skin tone," Bowers adds. The cream has a green pigment, which instantly neutralizes redness—a great way to subtly color-correct without wearing a stitch of makeup. "I don't wear a lot of makeup—or any makeup most of the time," Anderson told us back in October, noting that the green-tinged cream is "nice to even out [her] skin tone."

Next, Bowers covered Anderson's eyes with a weighted eye mask before giving her yet another head massage. (In case you can't tell, there's a lot of hands-on manipulation in Bowers's protocol!) She followed up with an organic cold cotton compress, plus cryo ice globes for instant de-puffing power. "[Cryo sticks] always feel good on top of a sheet mask or a wet piece of cloth," Bowers notes. After drying off her skin, she applied Sonsie's Multi Moisture Cream and performed yet another (!) massage, this time with mushroom-shaped crystals for lift and lymphatic drainage. Two layers of moisturizer isn't always necessary, but Bowers wanted to make sure Anderson's skin was nice and plump as she braved NYC's icy winds. Plus, "She's filming something right after [fashion week] so I made sure we did a lot of hydration," Bowers adds.

A layer of lip balm (Sonsie's Basic Balm, an editor favorite), and she was all set. "[I wanted to help her] really relax, look her best, and give her skin that looks hydrated and plump," Bowers shares. Considering Anderson practically radiated from the front row—also sporting a platinum shag with eyelash-grazing fringe—I'd say she absolutely nailed the assignment.

Shop The Facial

Twice a year, New York Fashion Week descends upon the city in a tsunami of style. With it comes a trend-inspiring wave of beauty that accompanies—but shouldn’t come second to—its runway counterparts. We beauty editors are often buzzing around backstage to get inside scoops on the hair, makeup, and nail looks that will soon float down the runway, closing the loop on every ensemble and sending those final, subtle messages that the designer intended. Think windswept, tousled hair giving life to the too-busy-for-beauty citydweller that inspired Simkhai S/S 2026, or the watercolor eye shadow at Sandy Liang’s last show that actualized the collection’s “sleepy girl” muse (per the show’s lead makeup artist, Charlie Riddle, in a previous interview with Who What Wear).

Last season, we used our forecasting skills to predict which beauty trends would have major moments on the most influential American runways, and we accurately predicted a handful: wearing hair as an outfit (never forget Collina Strada’s literal take on “hat hair”), and sculptural updos (as seen at Prabal Gurung and Luar), to name a few. Instead of playing psychic this time, we decided to throw our beauty manifestations out into the void—speaking them into existence, if you will.

Though it feels like September fashion week was just yesterday, we’ve observed a stark shift in our beauty appetites as we gaze toward the fall and winter of 2026. Gone are our desires for slicked hairstyles and hard shapes, and to simple, pristine makeup looks, we bid au revoir. Perhaps it’s the artist’s response to AI, but we, the people, no longer seek perfection on our stages. WWW beauty editors crave artistic storytelling, individuality, and creative mess. In short, we want to feel something, and the below gives us butterflies.

7 Beauty Trends We Hope to See at NYFW

Nail Jewelry

If there’s one trend we’re salivating for more of, it’s bedecked manicures. “More nail jewelry, please!” cries Senior Beauty Editor Jamie Schneider. “We saw the trend last season at Kim Shui, and I’ve been loving Betina Goldstein’s stylish takes lately,” she explains, spotlighting the earring-like charms that dangled from models’ extensions at the brand's S/S 2025 show (courtesy of Los Angeles–based brand Kijibae) and celebrity manicurist Goldstein’s recent hoop-pierced sets. “I would love to see iterations that make nails feel even more like chic little accessories,” she adds.

Shop the Trend

Lowknots

Sleek, glassy hairstyles have dominated the red carpets and runways for quite some time, but we, editors, are hopeful that the recent trend of soft, effortless hair will influence NYFW in a big way. Schneider specifically is looking for “low, tousled knots over polished slick-backs and sky-high updos” this season—a stark departure from the overly styled, hyper-perfect topknots we’re used to seeing backstage. “Think Miley Cyrus or Sabrina Carpenter from the Grammys. [I] would love to see the runway-ready spin,” she adds. For extra points, slot a low-placed barrette above your elastic, as hair accessories are having a major moment.

Shop the Trend

Campy Glam

As the TikTokers say, we’re craving runway makeup that “gags” us this season. Associate beauty editor Alyssa Brascia has been particularly fixated on the makeup trends that embrace excess: the Pinterest-forecasted glitchy glam trend, Zara Larsson’s bedazzled Midnight Sun Tour makeup, etc., and hopes to see more of this ostentatious, campy glamour on the runway this year.

We saw the grungier side of this spectrum during the F/W 2025 season via dark gray makeup at Luar and Kim Shui—both courtesy of MAC Cosmetics—and the former infused Carnival glam into last season's show with bedazzled, edgy eyes by celebrity makeup artist Andrew Dahling. The bolder, the better in our book, and we think this trend is just getting started.

Shop the Trend

Romantic Hair

Much like Schneider, beauty editor Kaitlyn McLintock is itching to see more of the romantic hairstyles coming out of Margot Robbie’s Wuthering Heights press tour translated onto the runway instead of slicked-back styles. “Blame it on the so-called ‘clean girl’ trend, but I feel like ultra-sleek hairstyles have been à la mode for a minute,” she quips. “Honestly, though, these looks have me feeling fatigued. I want to see more romantic, windswept styles with an emphasis on curled, waved, and even (gasp!) crimped hair.” We’re talking wispy front pieces, more hair tumbling out of the updo than not, and romantic adornments tucked into simple hairstyles. “Maybe it's the fact that I still can't get Rodarte's flower-filled S/S 2019 show out of my head, but I hope we see a return to more soft-spoken drama on the runways.”

Shop the Trend

Bleached Brows

Beloved by both the alt girls and the It girls (which, really, is there any difference these days?), bleached brows are a sure trend among the style set today, but Brascia hopes to see them decorate the runways, as well. “There’s been a lot more chatter in recent months about washable ‘bleached’ looks, which makes me think that designers will use stark, blonde brows as accessories this season,” she says. “No permanent results, which means the models can be grungey-chic at one show and light and natural at the next,” Brascia adds. “It’s probable!” This look opens up the eye, allowing for bolder eye makeup, or can be worn alone to pare things back even more—creating an otherworldly, extraterrestrial look. Either way, we hope to see this trend bloom under high-fashion direction.

Shop the Trend

Bedecked Braids

After interviewing Sîan Miller, the head hair and makeup artist for Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights, associate beauty editor Maya Thomas is hoping for beguiling braids to have their moment in the limelight this season. “I would love to see the soft and highly textured waves that are trending to be finished with intricate fishtail or doll braids,” says Thomas. (Chappell Roan’s subtle fishtail braids and effortless curls at the 2026 Grammys are a recent example that we’re itching to see more of.)

Thomas also pleads for hair accessories like “silk ribbons and delicate barrettes” to make more appearances on the catwalk—think: Rosalía’s ribbon-ridden ponytail at Julie Kegels’ 2025 Paris Fashion Week show and Robbie’s on-screen character Cathy’s long, ribbon-laced braids.

Shop the Trend

Wet-Hair Looks

While, yes, we’re a bit tired of the tight slick-back, Brascia thinks there’s something to be said for the “wet hair” look under a spotlight. Whether worn in a red carpet–ready fashion, like Gigi Hadid’s glossy, wavy wig that recently rocked the beauty industry, or the editorial look of Yohji Yamamoto models’ storm-strewn strands, wet-looking hair adds a touch of mystery to any ensemble. “What’s the story behind the look? How does their hair stay like that?” All the questions that run through our minds as we watch these captivating looks float down the runway like sea-soaked sirens.

Shop the Trend

Spotted at NYFW on the Coach F/W 26 runway is the next It bag of 2026: the Kisslock Frame Bag 30. Mark on your calendar that February 11, 2026, is the day vintage lovers' dreams came true. A nod to the 1969 archival Coach bag, Bonnie Cashin's Cashin Carry, the modernized east-west carryall features a kiss-lock closure—a hardware element quickly becoming synonymous with the brand, as seen in the Coach S/S 26 ready-to-wear collection in the form of tiny coin purses worn as necklaces—a detachable shoulder strap, and a buttery leather construction.

While the It bag may have walked the runway only a few days ago, you can already get your hands on the new release. Available for purchase online at Coach.com, the Kisslock Frame Bag 30 comes in five colorways, from Technicolor blue to muted ochre. This new release proves my theory that Coach has tapped into a new age of It bags. Last year, fashion people couldn't get enough of the Brooklyn Shoulder Bag, and I'm calling it now. The Kisslock Frame Bag 30 has all the makings to be the next It bag of 2026. Be prepared to see the vintage-inspired silhouette paired with dark-rinse jeans, trench coats, slip skirts, and more.

Below, shop the Kisslock Frame Bag 30, plus more chic buys from the Coach F/W 26 runway, like a ready-to-wear Varsity Jacket that is oh so Americana and celestial jewelry that feels otherworldly.

Kisslock Frame Bag 30

Shop More Coach F/W 26 Buy-Now Items

Varsity Jacket

Sun Brooch

Moon Earrings

Marc Jacobs wants you to do you. His new runway show on February 9, 2026, which kicked off New York Fashion Week, offered a wide range of outfit ideas to suit nearly any type of dresser. If you live for a night out on the town, for example, you'll revel in the designer's leather hot pants, which is a bit of a misnomer considering they're closer to underwear than pants. If you're a more buttoned-up fashion lover, on the other hand, you might gravitate toward the ruffled blouses, posh pencil skirts, and sumptuous outerwear.

"Surfacing on their own, memories shape, influence, and inform," Jacobs wrote in the show notes. "Recovering the past also reminds us that loss is inevitable and that hope is work. Memories, both bittersweet and beautiful, are a faculty of purpose, influencing current and future actions—who we are, what we create, what we leave behind, and what we carry forward." In other words, there's a little something in this collection for everyone, whether your mind is set on conquering your next major goal in life or you feel stuck in the past. Scroll down for my complete breakdown of the collection.

No Hemline Left Behind

If you've ever felt like Goldilocks when shopping for skirts—this one's too short, that one's too long—you'll be pleased to learn that Marc Jacobs will approve of your choice no matter where your skirt falls on the spectrum of hemlines. He presented four distinct versions of the exact same skirt: mini, knee-length, midi, and maxi. Pick your poison.

Office Hours vs. After Hours

Are you an office siren or a social butterfly? As far as Marc Jacobs is concerned, there's no wrong answer. Its latest collection offered outfit ideas that ranged from prim and proper to glittery and gleeful.

Cool Color Combos

Sure, you can never go wrong with black-and-white outfits and tan-and-brown looks, but if you want to experiment with pretty pigments, look no further than Marc Jacobs's new collection. My favorite unexpected color combo of the bunch? A chartreuse sweater ingeniously styled with a baby-pink skirt.

Outstanding Outerwear

In keeping with the "choose your own adventure" theme of this show, the outerwear options ranged from old-school to bright to iridescent. The classic tweed coat is a timeless option, and the cobalt-blue and sparkly versions definitely pack a punch.

Getting ready for New York Fashion Week always sends me into a very specific spiral. On one hand, I want something new—something exciting, trend-forward, and worthy of being photographed between shows. On the other hand, I know from experience that the pieces I end up reaching for the most are the ones I already trust. The coat that always works. The shoes I can actually walk in. The bag that somehow goes with everything. So this season, as I was mentally mapping out outfits (and resisting the urge to buy everything), I started wondering what the rest of our editors were doing.

I asked a few of my fellow Who What Wear editors to share exactly what they’re buying for NYFW—and what they’re happily rewearing instead. The result is a very real snapshot of how we’re actually getting dressed right now. Yes, there are a few strategic new purchases in the mix, but there’s also a lot of outfit repeating, smart layering, and pieces that have already earned their place in our wardrobes.

Ahead, four of us break down the eight new items we’re most excited to debut this Fashion Week, alongside eight older favorites we’ll be wearing again. Because if NYFW has taught us anything, it’s that the best outfits are rarely built from scratch.

Bobby Schuessler, Shopping Director

Audry Hiaoui, Associate Shopping Editor

Ana Escalante, Associate Features Editor

Josephine Hadjiloucas, Assistant Shopping Editor

Daniela Guevara, Assistant Social Media Editor

For the most part, when it comes to picking outfits to wear during fashion week, I prefer to stick with pieces I already own instead of attempting to outsource my entire wardrobe and risk ending up with too many options that don't feel like me. I've been attending for close to a decade, and I made that mistake countless times in my early years as an editor. Now, I always want to make sure I feel comfortable in what I'm wearing, not like I'm playing dress-up as someone I'm not. Even so, it is fun to introduce a few "something-news" into my wardrobe ahead of show season, blending them with existing items to give my own clothes and accessories a fresh, unique feel.

With just two weeks to go until the first day of NYFW, my fashion week shopping is well underway, with a total of 34 items currently calling my various online shopping carts home. No, I'm not going to buy them all, but I am carefully and diligently considering each one. In a few days, I'll make my final decisions, ordering a few pieces to wear to the fall/winter 2026 shows. Before then, I thought I'd share my current wish list, which includes everything from dresses and shoes to outerwear (it is currently freezing in New York City, and with another blizzard brewing, I don't see that changing anytime soon) and accessories. Perhaps you'll be inspired to do some shopping too.

At this point in the year, some people start to think about their New Year’s resolutions. But us? We’re thinking about the 2026 trends we can begin investing in now, before everyone else. We’d even go as far as to argue that shopping in this way is a resolution in itself.

Shopping now for the person you want to dress like next year is forward-thinking. It’s a way to get ahead of the “I hate everything I own” complaints we all fall victim to once a major seasonal shift hits. It’s also the ideal time to think about which runway trends from this past fashion month actually resonated with your personal style—and how it makes sense to integrate them into your daily wardrobe.

The shoe trends of 2026 are also shaping up to be fairly fun. It appears that the flip-flop craze of 2025 has led to a more toe-forward approach to all of the shoes everyone will be wearing, and pumps are also making a comeback after getting shafted for more comfortable sneakers following the pandemic.

Below, see four of the big shoe trends that are getting us excited for next year.

Elegant Pumps

It’s been a while since heels were hot. During the pandemic, most of us lived in flat shoes and cozy sneakers. With nowhere to go, there wasn’t a reason to wear pumps at all. Since then, it’s felt like heels, in general, have left the zeitgeist almost entirely. That kind of thinking is likely what led to the rise of flip-flops as fashion shoes. But now, the OG fashion girl staple is back, and elegant pumps are about to be very in again. This time around, though, they’re more comfortable, with reasonable heel heights and easier-to-wear silhouettes. And best of all, they weren’t really designed with a 9-to-5 office lifestyle in mind, making them far more fun to wear every day.

Peep-Toes

The rise of flip-flops means most of us are already accustomed to seeing toes everywhere. Apparently, it hasn’t been enough. On nearly every runway this past fashion month, even the most buttoned-up heels and serious stilettos featured small peepholes for toes to peek through. It’s a freaky little trend that reminds us fashion doesn’t have to be so weighty—it can also be quirky and fun. Just be prepared to budget for more pedicures than usual.

Freaky Flip-Flops

And given their discussed impact on other shoe trends, flip-flops also aren’t going anywhere. If anything, they’re only getting weirder. At Copenhagen and Paris Fashion Week, models wore flip-flops that challenged the very notion of what the shoe could be. Some were heeled. Some were shiny. Some had PVC straps. Some had all of the above. So if you didn’t go all in on the flip-flop trend last year, you still have time.

Embellished or Extra in Every Way

As we veer farther into maximalism after years of minimalism and quiet luxury, shoes are expected to become even more of a statement. Instead of relying on your loafers or sneakers next year, consider embellished or embroidered slingbacks. Backstage at Tory Burch, the designer couldn’t stop talking about finally perfecting an embellished heel covered in beading and embroidery. She’d been wanting to do it for seasons, but the timing felt right this time around—and clearly, she was onto something. Expect to see far more shoes with plenty of bling.

Fashion month is a whirlwind, but it's a creative, inspiring, and era-defining whirlwind. The four weeks of fashion-and-beauty madness began with New York Fashion Week, followed directly by London, Milan, and Paris (in that order). Who What Wear's intrepid team of editors covered hundreds of shows, delved into new and old designer collections, and boldly stationed ourselves amid backstage chaos. At the end of it, we were exhausted, but more importantly, we knew all the major trends that are heading our way come 2026.

This year, it seems we'll see a mix of old and new trends collide. There are wearable looks, like windswept hair and winged eyeliner, that are making their way back to peak relevancy. Then, there are the new, bold, and editorial looks that demand attention. Think statement-making lipstick (I mean that quite literally) and next-level, doll-like lashes. Ahead, see the seven most major beauty trends from spring/summer 2026 fashion month.

The first trend is all about rebuking the minimalist, "clean-girl" makeup look that's been almost omnipresent on social media over the last couple of years, and swapping it with bold, look-at-me lashes. Backstage at Ulla Johnson's NYFW show, models wore gold-dipped lashes (created by combining gold eye shadow with a mixing medium). At Mossi's PFW presentation, models were spotted with impossibly long, doll-like ones (a validation that we're smack-dab in the middle of baby-doll fall). Similarly, at Harris Reed's LFW presentation, models wore feathery, avant-garde falsies that reached well past their brows. Meanwhile, at Collina Strada, clusters of bright-pink lashes were placed on the outer corners of the models' eyes.

While colorful mascara is an easy way to re-create this trend, you can also opt for colorful and/or bejeweled falsies—anything that demands attention and makes your eyes the focal point of your look. Do as the designers did, and embrace this rather whimsical, otherworldly element in your makeup routine.

Shop the Trend

Watercolor eye shadow was a major trend during NYFW, and it continued on to be a major trend throughout the rest of fashion month, too. First, there was Collina Strada, where models wore a wash of unrestrained pink eye shadow all over their eyelids, outer corners, and under-eyes. Then, there was Ashish, with a messy and striking brushstroke of cobalt blue. At LDW, Toga's models wore a wash of canary-yellow eye shadow, and at PFW, Gabriela Hearst's models wore a subtle powder-blue shadow just on the inner corners of their eyes. It's a blink-and-you-might-miss-it makeup element that feels right in line with French-girl fashion.

In 2026, fashion people aren't putting up with basic lip combos. They're branching out and testing bold new looks. Chloé's S/S 26 show featured models wearing bright, powdery-pink lipstick. At Sportmax, models wore bitten-berry lipstick. At Roksanda, models wore a black-to-red lip color that was topped with a vinyl-like finish for good measure. Simone Rocha took the trend to another level by sending models down the runway with sayings and phrases painted on their lips. Talk about a statement-making lip (literally). Take this as your sign to dust off the bolder lip colors in your collection, whether that's a vampy berry shade, crimson red, or punchy pink. And don't be afraid to doctor it up, either. Try blotting it out for a blurred effect, layering a high-shine gloss over top, or blending two shades for an ombré effect.

We've seen all sorts of skin-focused trends over the last couple of years. There was "glazed donut" skin, spearheaded by Hailey Bieber and her trusty Rhode skincare line. There was "glass skin," which made its way Stateside from South Korea. There's also been "dewy dumpling" skin, created by celebrity makeup artist Nam Vo. According to S/S 26 runways, the internet's obsession with glowing skin won't slow down in 2026. Instead, it will ever so slightly evolve.

It seems we'll see a more restrained take on super-dewy, highly reflective skin finishes. Instead of an allover glow, makeup artists send models down the runway with softly radiant skin. Some complexions were velvety matte. Others had a precise, shimmer-free highlighter placed on the cheekbones, nose, brow bone, and Cupid's bow. Regardless, it's all about creating a healthy-looking, lit-from-within radiance.

For this look, skin prep is everything. The softer, smoother, and more hydrated the skin is before makeup, the better. (Yes, that means glow-boosting masks, essences, and primers.) Then again, a touch of some expertly formulated, well-placed highlighter doesn't hurt either. Shop our top picks below.

As makeup looks become louder and bolder, hairstyles seem to be going the opposite direction. Throughout fashion month, designers debuted their new collections with models who wore natural-looking, windswept hair; the list includes Valentino, Stella McCartney, Roberto Cavalli, Erdem, Dior, and more. It seemed as if hairstylists embraced or at the very most highlighted the models' natural texture, and it gave them the effect of walking down a city street on a breezy day. Think slightly ruffled, tousled hair that could have just been revealed from under a scarf or a hat. We love when high-fashion embraces a wearable, effortless trend, and this is it. So put down your heat tools because 2026 is going to be big on natural-looking, lived-in hair.

Here's another beauty trend that kicked off in a big way during NYFW: nail embellishments. At Grace Ling, models wore a single chunky gem on each long, claw-tipped nail. At Kim Shui, models wore what we can only describe as bold, silver nail brooches. At Di Petsa, models wore minimalist mermaid-esque opals atop their silvery manicures. Last but certainly not least, at Christian Cowan, models wore silver-studded, translucent nails. It seems that, in 2026, the best manicures will be unique, creative, and feature 3D elements. Prepare by picking up a set of studded press-ons or a pack of individual nail gems.

If winged liner feels rather… 2016 to you, you're not alone. Blame it on the "clean girl" trend that's dominated social media over the last couple of years, but eye makeup has been on the decline (until now). People have abandoned their eyeliners, eye shadows, and even mascaras. (The no-mascara trend was major this year.)

According to a set of high-fashion houses, though, that's changing for 2026. At Sandy Liang, models wore a subtle brown flick. At Attico, models wore a smoky version of the same look. Meanwhile, some models walked the Fendi runway wearing a bold black wing with red lipstick (an utterly classic look). Dolce & Gabbana also embraced a classic black wing. So, yeah, it's official: Whether it's black or brown, smoky or sharply cut, winged eyeliner is back, baby.

Tiffany Reid is a Who What Wear editor in residence, fashion executive, freelance stylist, and brand consultant who most recently served as the senior vice president of fashion for Bustle Digital Group. She recently launched a YouTube series, Tried + True, in which she walks viewers through the latest trends.

Every fashion season, getting dressed feels like a new challenge. My style has always been a balance of spicy meets sophisticated, a blend that lets me experiment while staying true to myself. I’ve never been one to shy away from bold pieces, but I always add a polished finish to my looks too. My wardrobe lives somewhere between luxury and high-street, where a statement piece meets an everyday essential. When shopping, I am attracted to anything elevated or with a thoughtful detail. Once I find that piece, that’s usually when I swipe my card.

Over time, the way I prepare for fashion moments has completely evolved. I pack more intentionally now, curating each look with purpose rather than impulse. Ever since I have been traveling to see collections, I plan full style-outs and photograph my outfits in advance before leaving home. Now it looks a little different because I pack just exactly the right amount of outfits based on my calendar, nothing extra; it saves time and spares me from the chaos of overpacking. Motherhood and entrepreneurship have reshaped my priorities, so I’ve learned to value ease without sacrificing style. Obviously, when getting dressed for shows, the goal is to stand out but in a way that draws the right kind of attention: the “Where did you get that?” not the “What are you wearing?” kind.

I’m an old-school editor in the sense that I used to dress purely for the show I was going to, meaning I’d wear the designer I was going to see to the show. But now, it’s about mood and personality: the personality of the creative director or the mood of the fashion house. So now it’s one day I’m dressed avant-garde to Sacai, the next quiet luxury for the Hermès show. Somehow, this season, I ended up matching the color palette of the shows I was attending. Maybe it’s intuition, or maybe I’ve just done my homework. Either way, fashion has become less about chasing trends and more about curating a story that feels like me.

Here are my favorite looks from this fashion month.

Preppy Schoolgirl

I opted for a preppy-schoolgirl look for the Off-White show in NYC; it was fitting since it was held in an actual school. The layered sweater, skort under a miniskirt, and kitten heels added subtle balance to the playful silhouette. Classic collegiate colors tied the whole look together, keeping it chic and perfectly on theme.

Late-Night Fringe

To the Public School anniversary party, I wanted to wear a standout piece that still felt timeless, something with that old-school New York energy. The fringe brought the look to life, like it was made for a late night out filled with music and dancing. I kept accessories minimal to let the dress be a statement on its own.

Cotton-Candy Queen

I wore this look to the Miu Miu show, known for its playful spirit and element of surprise each season. The whimsical sweater brought that sense of fun, perfectly balanced by my signature classic staples like these dress shorts. It felt effortless, a mix of lighthearted energy and timeless pieces.

Primary Colors

With the new creative directors' debut at Loewe, I, like many other editors, did not know what to expect, so I leaned into that quirky energy of the brand. I played with a mix of bright, bold colors, grounded by rich brown tones that acted as a neutral base. Limiting the palette to two strong hues kept the look cohesive, and a sweater tied around the waist added a final colorful punch.

Quiet Luxury

I embraced minimalism in soft tonal shades for Hermès day, the ultimate expression of quiet luxury. Each piece was refined yet understated, letting the texture from the sheer pants and the silhouette of the puff scarf speak for themselves.

Recently one of our favourite L.A. fashion girls spent the last few days of New York Fashion week, attending events. Of course, with her came a handful of awe-worthy ensembles, each one better than the next. There was the vintage Alaïa minidress she (and her stylist, Danielle Goldberg) styled alongside Manolo Blahnik heels for the Harper's Bazaar Icons Dinner, as well as the Kallmeyer miniskirt and tank she wore to the launch party for EE72 Magazine. At the end of the week, she got more casual (as we all did), donning a brown trench, navy sweater, and loose black trousers with Alaïa ballet flats. What did they all have in common? The Row's 90's Bag, a timeless and elegant staple in any fashion person's capsule handbag wardrobe.

Throughout the actress's trip, I spotted The Row's mini top-handle bag three times. Though there could easily be more that weren't photographed. It was undoubtedly her go-to handbag during fashion week, likely because of its simple, minimalist, and versatile design. All three times, she carried the black leather version. Though it also comes in white, burgundy, and more colour options that are equally easy to style for every occasion, from a buzzy fashion party to a day spent running errands.

Of course, The Row's lauded (and very elusive) Margaux bag is a favourite, but if you have a smaller budget, the 90's Bag is just as beloved by the fashion crowd. Scroll down to see how Harrier styled it during NYFW and shop her exact bag.

On Laura Harrier: The Row 90's Bag (£1240); Saint Laurent SL567 Sunglasses (£340); Alaïa Ballet Flats (£690)

On Laura Harrier: The Row 90's Bag (£1240);; Vintage Alaïa dress; Manolo Blahnik Leva 105 Leather Sandals (£715)

On Laura Harrier: The Row 90's Bag (£1240); Kallmeyer Zia Cowl Tank (£500) and Shiloh Mini Skirt (£373); Paris Texas Lidia Patent Leather Mules (£535)

Shop The Row 90's Bag:

More The Row bags to shop:

While I'll always look forward to the marquee names at New York Fashion Week—the shows you plan your entire calendar around—I get just as excited for the emerging brands every season. There's something I've always loved about discovering unconventional new designers at the intersection of fashion, art, and culture who build their own aesthetic worlds and bring different perspectives to the industry. These are the runways, presentations, and showrooms I walk away from feeling inspired and reminded of what fashion can do when it embraces unbridled experimentation and deeper self-expression.

For spring/summer 2026, the labels that stood out most to me were Jane Wade, Gabe Gordon, Meruert Tolegen, Colleen Allen, and Mel Usine. Below, take a look at each of their latest collections.

Ever since Jane Wade started showing, she's become one of the designers I look forward to every season because of how her work is sharp, consistent, and distinctly her own. Fall/winter 2025 was inspired by the executive suite, but this time, she shifted to warehouses and workwear with a collection titled The Fulfillment. With visual direction by Tre Crews and creative direction alongside Joe Van O, Wade focused on utilitarian looks with her signature sleek touch.

The show notes read, "This season interrogates labor as currency—how bodies are monitored, time is sold, and exhaustion becomes uniform. Through operations, logistics, and manual work, the collection exposes the quiet violence of expendability under commerce, where machine efficiency threatens to erase human presence. Each garment resists invisibility, insisting on the value, tactility, and irreducible presence of the laboring body."

Shop Jane Wade

Romanian designer Lorena Pipenco drew from her heritage and referenced the 1965 film De-a fi Harap Alb, a fairytale about resilience, luck, and kindness when the odds are stacked against you. Her collection embraced fantasy and surrealism—favoring beauty, play, and imagination over hypercapitalism. The most unforgettable moment? A gown crafted from 900 lemon peels.

Shop Pipenco

At DCTV in downtown Manhattan, Gabe Gordon presented a collection drawing from J.G. Ballard's Crash, David Cronenberg's film adaptation of the novel, and Madonna's Erotica. According to the show notes, "Desire in American visual culture is often inseparable from destruction. Across media, the erotic is frequently staged through gestures of violence, collision, and rupture. This entanglement is nowhere more potent than in the overlapping imaginaries of demolition derby, fetishwear, and high-gloss sexual performance."

This marks the second season of Gordon's creative partnership with his partner Timothy Gibbons, who brings a background in costume design and tailoring to the knitwear line. The brand's spring/summer 2026 collection features partnerships with Guzema Fine Jewelry, TômTex, and Lime x LL, LLC, and the two designers are now finalists for the 2025 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund.

Shop Gabe Gordon

From her background in menswear at The Row to her emergence as an independent designer, Colleen Allen is now a beloved staple at New York Fashion Week.

For this collection, she looked to women's domestic wardrobes—nightgowns, lingerie, and dressing gowns—crafted from silk and lace. The idea was to take pieces that were once confined to home life and make them public-facing.

Influenced by Red Comet, the biography of Sylvia Plath, Allen explores the duality between domestic constraint and creative ambition in her most recent collection.

Shop Colleen Allen

Originally from Kazakhstan and now based in New York, Meruert Tolegen has quickly become a favorite among editors since debuting in Paris in 2022. Tolegen's accomplishments speak for themselves: She is a 2025 LVMH Prize semifinalist, and her first store has just opened at 39 Wooster Street in SoHo. With such an impressive trajectory, it will be exciting to see what she does in the coming seasons.

Shop Meruert Tolegen

Mila Sullivan's show felt like stepping into a Victorian-era dream with the atmosphere set to music by the harp-and-violin duo called Leya. The Brooklyn-based designer works with reimagined vintage materials—hand-dyed silk, collaged lace, distressed textiles—to create pieces that feel incredibly thoughtful (because they are).

Shop Mila Sullivan