NYFW 2025 Live (ish) Updates
As the industry’s biggest names set the tone for the seasons ahead, New York Fashion Week 2025 is more than just a showcase of clothing. This year is a theater of reinvention. Beneath the glamour, here’s what’s really happening:
The Anti-Trend Movement
While fast fashion continues to chase micro-trends, many designers are doing the opposite. We have seen a large increase of designers leaning into timeless collections that reject seasonality. Brands like The Row and Khaite have stripped back embellishments, focusing on impeccable tailoring, heirloom craftsmanship, and fabrics that age like fine wine.
Runway Moments:
Khaite’s opening show was a love letter to 1980s New York minimalism, with barely-there makeup and silhouettes so fluid they felt sculptural.
Thom Browne’s shock moment? A completely monochrome, print-free collection—unexpected for a designer known for whimsical detail.
The After-Party Scene
Saks Fifth Avenue NYFW Kickoff Party:
Saks hosted its annual pre-NYFW event at the newly opened Crane Club Restaurant in Chelsea. The evening featured a surprise performance by Caroline Polachek. Notable attendees included Laura Harrier, Thomas Doherty, and Alex Consani.
Jimmy Choo Spring 2025 Campaign Celebration:
Jimmy Choo, in collaboration with Chloë Sevigny, celebrated its Spring 2025 campaign at Jean's in New York City. The intimate dinner featured a special performance by Patti Smith and attracted guests such as Jack Harlow, Jemima Kirke, Cole Sprouse, Lisa Rinna, and Amanda Lepore. The evening concluded with a DJ set by The Dare.
The It Bag Nobody Expected
After years of oversized, pillow-like totes, designers are shrinking the silhouette again. The hottest bag from NYFW? A vintage-style, ultra-mini clutch, spotted on the runways of Altuzarra, Carolina Herrera, and Brandon Maxwell.
Notable Collection: Ulla Johnson
Ulla Johnson’s Fall 2025 Ready-to-Wear collection was a study in quiet confidence. Heritage craftsmanship met a modern edge. Against an 8-foot sculpted poppy installation (a collaboration with French sculptor Julie Haminsky), Johnson wove a narrative of ephemerality and strength.
Rich ochres, midnight blues, and marigold florals gave the collection a lived-in warmth, while layered silks, structured jacquard coats, and handcrafted knits balanced delicacy with architecture. Gold-plated poppy belts and sculptural floral jewelry added an almost mystical touch. It was Ulla at her best.
Final Thoughts
This season so far is about a cultural reset. Designers are seeking inspiration in pre-digital craftsmanship, nature, and emotion-driven storytelling. The most unforgettable moments weren’t the loudest – they were the ones that felt intimate, handmade, and deeply human.
Xoxo,
Annie
