The 6 Most Exciting NYFW Trends, From Sequins to Feathers

Published on 2/18/2022 at 6:25 PM

Courtesy of Michael Kors

While some wondered whether it would even happen, New York Fashion Week not only took place, it delivered on the sartorial inspiration we've come to expect each season. Whether at Christian Siriano's Matrix-inspired universe or Dion Lee's thong-mask debut, designers delivered bold and provocative pieces meant for a post-pandemic world.

Even with London, Milan, and Paris shows still on the horizon, New York established the core trends everyone will be wearing come fall, no doubt setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting Fashion Month. Bright hues — often in the form of monochrome ensembles — stood out in many collections, infusing fall staples with a buoyant sense of optimism. Workwear was on many designers' minds as we inch toward a post-pandemic future; one potent answer is in Tory Burch's sportswear-inspired blazers, which blend comfort and structure.

Elsewhere, the influence of The Matrix and the metaverse — seen in Christian Siriano's patent-leather looks and Coach's sweeping leather coats — was undeniable. Other designers looked to the past, with Collina Strada and Markarian adding a modern spin to Victorian silhouettes — now embedded in the zeitgeist thanks to shows like "Bridgerton" and "The Gilded Age."

There were many odes to New York, most notably in the Michael Kors collection, which captured nightlife through sparkly gowns, power coats, and classic pumps. Feathers also made a triumphant return, adorning the hem of going-out staples like minidresses and shorts.

From power suits to glittering frocks reserved for a night on the town, the designs seemed to nod to a future when event-dressing returns with fervor. Ahead, get inspired by our top seven runway trends of the season:

Monochrome Brights

Speaking to our longing for clothes that spark joy, bright hues are making a comeback this fall. And for the impending return to the office, designers are embracing monochrome ensembles that feel at once pulled together and effortless. From an electric-blue suit at Christian Siriano to a rainbow-colored parade of belted suits at Sergio Hudson, saturated shades are the look du jour from head to toe.

At Jason Wu.

At Michael Kors.

At Sergio Hudson.

At Victor Glemaud.

Sequins for the Win

From Jonathan Simkhai's sequin separates to Prabal Gurung's sparkly gowns, glitzy embellishments were a regular sight on the runway, covering everything from tops to skirts and pants.

At Carolina Herrera.

At Prabal Gurung.

At Eckhaus Latta.

Feather Play

The use of feathers to animate garments is nothing new, but this season, designers like Tia Adeola incorporated them in new, exciting ways. Whether they were lining the hem of minidresses at Christian Cowan or breathing new life into denim shorts at Area, feathers were everywhere this season.

At Prabal Gurung.

At Area.

At Bronx and Banco.

At Christian Cowan.

The Victorian Revival

With shows like "Bridgerton" and "The Gilded Age" capturing our imagination, designers are taking inspiration from the Victorian period. Collina Strada's gown with exaggerated hips recalls the era's famous silhouette, as do the many brocade gowns at Markarian.

At Markarian.

Reimagined Suiting

As many contemplate a return to the office, designers are expanding the definition of power dressing to include different suiting iterations. Tory Burch offered blazers with a more athletic feel, and other designers presented sharp shoulders in a typical fall palette of grays, blues, and blacks. The options are as varied as ever, ensuring that everyone can dress the part for their first day back.

At Peter Do.

At 3.1 Phillip Lim.

The Matrix Takeover

Edgy, futuristic, and laser-sharp, Matrix-inspired fashion enjoyed a resurgence on the fall runway by way of Christian Siriano and Coach's Stuart Vevers. With latex dresses, sweeping leather coats, and equally sharp sunglasses, designers are embracing the dark aesthetic for both work and play.

At Gabriela Hearst.

At Altuzarra.

At Coach.