New York Fashion Week Spring 2015: A Tour
by Egomeli Hormeku
Ever wanted to go to New York Fashion Week? Presenting a list of the best 30+ shows, parties and presentations.
1) Wenqi Wu will rule the fashion world in the not too distant future.
I think I was the first to arrive to the Ace Hotel. I didn’t know what to expect other than an assumption based on rumors.
Wenqi Wu is not “next.” He is now.
Wenqi Wu is not “next.” He is now. Based on Russian Constructivism and his unorthodox approach with shapes, there’s no doubt that he’s a force to be reckoned with. After seeing so many presentations, we try to stay away from the, “Oh, that’s cute” effect, acknowledging valiant but failed attempts at a great season. The entire presentation seemed like an experiment gone right. The lambskin fell perfectly. The silk organza made for a smooth finish. Wenqi managed to find a place where comfort and luxe style meet. As he watched from afar with a smile, I could tell there is more in store, the kind of “more” that has no bounds.
2) Josie Natori is as beautiful as her clothes are.
The first thing you would think when you meet Josie Natori is to bow in the presence of greatness but she’d probably introduce herself to you as if she is not THE JOSIE NATORI. Her SS15 show was the definition of effortless elegance.
Josie Natori’s SS15 show was the definition of effortless elegance.
The colors whispered island getaway and infinite ocean views. The sarong inspired pieces and silhouetted skirts were inspired by her very own vacations. As hours passed, I found myself in a conversation with Ms. Natori and her fabulous creative director in her seasonally themed flagship store. For two people who could be considered fashion royalty on an Anna Wintour and Andre Leon Tally level, they spoke as if they just closed their first season and were ready for more. Well, we see why they are royalty and can’t wait for more.
3) LITKE will make you miss this summer/long for next summer.
Former-NYU-student-turned-VOGUE-intern-turned-gorgeous-designer immediately made me sing “The Days of Wine and Roses” and think of fond summer memories. You can see the beautiful simplicity of Poland and the intricacy of New York in her presentation. The polka dots and light colors played very well with the breezy fabric and textures. Cotton candy blue dresses and jumpsuits jumped out in front of a checkered background and seemed perfect for an impromptu stroll along Riis Beach. Job well done.
You can see the beautiful simplicity of Poland and the intricacy of New York in LITKE’s presentation.
4) Daniel Silverstain SS15 will probably go down as top ten presentations in all of Fashion Month.
Daniel Silverstain atelier was hidden in plain sight.
There was a bit of commotion between guests and employees from other floors who did not get the Fashion Week memo. I stood casually to the side after checking in and remembered this feeling from a time long ago. After all, how could I forget? It was the same feeling I’d had before seeing my very first show.
The air was filled with “lateness but greatness,” the organized chaos, and the moments before you were either wowed or disappointed. A pleasant host welcomed my exit off of a crowded elevator. Then, I turned the corner.
I’m almost convinced that the hand of God was responsible for Daniel Silverstain SS15. In his première NYFW show, Daniel Silverstain turned a simple three room vanilla space in to a serendipitous experience. The metallic biker jackets and boyfriend jeans, the luxurious silks on dresses, and neoprene pencil skirts! Speaking with Daniel, he explained that his vision was that of Brazilian ’60s influence. The Futurism didn’t disappoint. Every stitch, every pleat, every layer, every look, every metallic lacquer painted nail, all said: “Hi, my name is Daniel Silverstain and I’ll be here for a very long time.” Excellence.
The metallic biker jackets and boyfriend jeans, the luxurious silks on dresses, and neoprene pencil skirts!
5) Anya Caliendo should be on your mind, figuratively and literally.
Daisies, panamas, and fedoras … OH MY! It should come as no surprise that every Anya Caliendo hat tells a story of a woman who makes a profound and luxurious statement.
Every Anya Caliendo hat tells a story of a woman who makes a profound and luxurious statement.
There were some pieces that gave a “stroll through the Botanical Gardens” feel and others that gave a “burlesque headliner” vibe. Either way, these pieces are made for the daring and provocative woman who, although etched in opulent undertones, can shake a room up at will. Anya Caliendo never fails to make this happen. This season is proof.
6) VFILES made the hype beasts, tastemakers, instafamous, voguers and young professionals all get along.
First of all, I haven’t been to Webster Hall since Facebook was invented.
VFILES showcased four international designers for the future of sportswear.
This was a genius move by VFILES, who cater to their target audience oh so well. VFILES showcased four international designers for the future of sportswear. The great thing about watching four shows with a crowd of street-savvy kids who know all about selvedge denim, dead-stock Jordan’s, and luxury streetwear capsule collections is, that they were the “in-crowd” and the very future of these budding brands.
The only thing missing was a third-party aggregator on a large smart phone to charge everyone for the pieces seen on the runway. Oohs and aahs, mingling, and music made this event more of a launch party than a show; a perfect introduction to the night and the kids who run it. Well played.
7) There is nothing that can be said about CUTECIRCUIT SS15 that hasn’t been said about the first generation iPhone.
Best concept, hands down. Think of a world where you can download your outfit and change the appearance of your bag, skirt, dress, suit and jacket. We see what you are on the brink of, and we love it. Not to mention the strategic collaboration between Mercedes Benz and CUTECIRCUIT gave Mercedes Benz Fashion Week invitees a chance to get a glimpse of CUTECIRCUIT SS15 every single day. NYFW Live and the rest of the fashion community look forward to seeing what the future of CUTECIRCUIT brings, with downloadable pieces sure to cement a paradigm shift in fashion and technology.
Best concept, hands down.
8) MESKITA wins the NYFWLive Award for Best Muse for a Season.
MESKITA decided the SS15 season would use Egypt as inspiration.
Skip a zeitgeist, club or a person. MESKITA decided the SS15 season would use Egypt as inspiration. With the goddess of life and creativity in mind, MESKITA showcased pieces women can wear to exude and heighten strength, live, love and reverence. The shades of the season were inspired by the Sahara while the prints resembled the life of the Nile. Silks were adorned in hieroglyphics and the use of lions made the Egyptian tradition apparent. Not only did the pieces excel with its use of chiffon and silk, but also the leather was beautifully scaled and made for a flow to the looks they were incorporated in.
9) Fashion Law Institute and Carrie Hammer are a match made in Criminal Court.
Fashion Designer Carrie Hammer SS15 collection by way of the Fashion Law Institute was a great one. The pieces are made for professional women. It’s a mystery why all attorneys aren’t running to Carrie Hammer for their cross-examinations, jury selections, and closing arguments. This is one designer that I’m sure young professionals will find perfect for both work and after-work meet-ups.
It’s a mystery why all attorneys aren’t running to Carrie Hammer.
10) CIROC x Erin Fetherston Event wins the happiest event at NYFW award.
All of the competition and shade went out of the window.
Well, there were no windows because it was an outside event, but you get what I’m saying. A few angelic hosts placed white wristbands on guests and escorted us to a revamped courtyard that looked like a scene out of a Miami night in the Mondrian Hotel.
EMC Bowery did an amazing job with such a talented and diverse crowd. The stars really came out! What did I expect? It was an Erin Fetherston and CIROC event. Erin was celebrating an extremely tasteful SS15 line inspired by charm school. She was nothing short of amazing, exuding the kind of grace you read about in fairy tales. The bartenders were busy. Blame CIROC Pineapple. It might be too good. I’m pretty sure I wasn’t seeing things.
I see a slew of people congratulating the women of the hour, Erin Fetherston, who may or may not know she is inches away from Angela Simmons and Kristina Bowden.
I turn to my left and see Jamie Chung. I turn to my right and see Carmen Electra. I look behind me and see Whitney Port enjoying the deejay, who was playing a few feel-good tunes. I see a slew of people congratulating the women of the hour, the incomparable Erin Fetherston, who may or may not know she is inches away from Angela Simmons and Kristina Bowden.
Like Erin Fetherston, the CIROC brand is innovative and versatile. It made for such an excellent pairing. CIROC brought the tropical luxury, especially for those faced with a long flight to London Fashion Week the very next day. Thanks for the early vacation in the middle of the city that never sleeps.
11) Tim Gunn needs to make sure he gets Heidi Klum back for … never mind.
We know the drill. And it’s a good one.
For thirteen seasons, Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn have used Lifetime as a platform to give aspiring designers their shot in the big leagues.
Project Runway Season Finale has a show every year with more shows to keep us guessing who won. For thirteen seasons, Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn have used Lifetime as a platform to give aspiring designers their shot in the big leagues. Nine designers got the opportunity to do so and, for thirteen seasons, we know that the wait will be over in about mid-October. Other than onlookers cheering on their favorite reality TV show designer, most were whispering about Tim Gunn’s whereabouts. The fashion godfather of the show appeared during the end slightly trembling and we all had no clue why. I guess you’ll see why when October hits.
12) Mark and Estel always bring Coachella to the tents.
If you don’t know by now, let NYFWLive be the first to tell you. They are rock stars, period. They live life to the fullest. They design like no other. They write and produce music. They pretty much do it all.
Mark and Estel pretty much do it all.
Let’s talk about the SS15 collection though. It is amazing for everyday staples pieces, which can showcase the versatility of your style on any given day. The essentials all come together to make one rocking masterpiece. Mark and Estel are a New York Fashion Week staple and I’m sure the New York transplants from California can almost touch home when they see these quintessential pieces on the catwalk. That, and the fact that the animal-print jacket Mark wears as he rocks out is nothing short of superstar status.
13) The NYFW Live Award for the best accessories at NYFW: Andiamo Luggage (with a special appearance by new brand ambassador Daymond John)
If there were a word above luxury, it would be Andiamo.
If there were a word above luxury, it would be Andiamo. From the quality craftsmanship to the technological features that set it apart, Andiamo is a jetsetter brand for a jetsetter. This makes it only right Andiamo tapped fashion mogul and Shark Tank judge, Daymond John, a brand ambassador for the uppermost house of luxury luggage.
The Avanti (soft-line) collection has patented technology that uses tension to expand packing space by 20 percent and then gently compresses your belongings to meet airline requirements, leaving your clothing wrinkle free. The Pantera (hard-line) collection, available in a beautiful Carbon Black or a flashy Lava Red, is made of a lightweight polycarbonate hard-shell that reduces luggage weight by 20 percent. The sleek look of this luggage makes it fitting for all genders. Meeting the people behind the brand brought everything together. Taking the utmost pride in excellence, I spoke the CEO, Marketing head, lead designer, and SVP of the brand. Believe me when I say, these are fit for the erudite and constructed to be strong enough for the proletariat. Even the zipper technology is marvelous, as it uses the exact YKK interlocking that military and first-responders use. Manufacturer’s warranty and airline damage are included in the price. I wouldn’t be surprised if everyone on Net Jet didn’t order Andiamo after this.
14) Monique Lhuillier is the queen of eveningwear.
Monique Lhuillier is designing on another plane.
Monique Lhuillier is designing on another plane. If there was ever a whisper that she was not the queen of eveningwear, her SS15 collection quickly muted such absurd talk. The icing on the cake was the gentle shower of metallic confetti on the final pieces and the finale. The full skirts thrilled all in attendance. The shorts design is tasteful enough to be considered eveningwear; a feat only Lhuillier can pull off. These pieces were red carpet, magic moment, and royal family worthy. If there is anyone that designed better-layered gowns this season, we know whom you will say. You’re bias and picking favorite. Monique Lhuillier wins, outright.
15) HAZE sees things differently. We should too.
Eyewear out of this world and a model filled short film to bring life to the brand made HAZE SS15 a sight to see. HAZE debuted six new models to their popular collection. The favorite was a new take on the wayfarer called SEIZE, now oversized and square, gives a sleek and futuristic look to a timeless design. I cannot wait until the sun comes out to make that purchase, as HAZE let the world know select online retailers will house the brand’s new and impressive SS15 editions.
HAZE SS15 was a sight to see.
16) Jason Wu took HUGO BOSS SS15 to an entirely different level, combining classic minimal pieces with futuristic colors, layers and cuts.
Jason Wu made a wardrobe for a globetrotting CEO who makes things happen and looks the part every moment of every day. If only we could get Jason Wu and Daniel Silverstain in the same room to talk about what made them figure out the perfect marriage between yesterday and tomorrow … .
If only we could get Jason Wu and Daniel Silverstain in the same room.
17) Crown by Colin King is playing for keeps.
CROWN by Colin King came to life during MBFW with a collection that did not disappoint. The pieces were all intricately made for an eye popping day to day or a show stopping, yet comfortable, nightlife. The comfort was not lacking. The color scheme was so New York at 2AM at the best and brightest club. The production was as cool as the guy who orders bottle service without the sparklers. Nothing needs to be said. Colin King wears a crown for a reason. While the street wear community is a constant fight to who can create the next big thing, Colin King found a way to take the depth and intricacy of a quality brand and incorporate the grit and toughness of the Big Apple. It is only a matter of time before Supreme tries to steal his stuff or McNairy asks to collaborate. Job well done.
Colin King wears a crown for a reason.
18) The most informative MBFW panel about the business of fashion took place.
DHL, the world’s leading logistics provider, revealed the competitive and global nature of the fashion industry by kicking off the first DHL Fashion Industry Panel. As the Official Logistics Partner, DHL, fashion designers and other industry experts shared insights and real-world expertise to help budding fashion enterprises learn what it takes to create successful, international fashion brands. Teri Agins, columnist at The Wall Street Journal and author of The End of Fashion: How Marketing Changed Fashion Forever was the moderator and the panel was heavy with acclaim and insight. Karsten Aufgebauer, General Manager at DHL Express U.S.; Jarrad Clark, Vice President and Global Creative Director at IMG; Nicholas and Christopher Kunz, designers of Nicholas K; Nichole Miller, one of the world’s most successful designers and Gary Wassner, Co-CEO of Hilldun, the well-known factoring firm for the fashion industry were answering questions and giving their tricks of the trade for designers who may very well be the talk of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. We also got to see 2014 DHL Exported contest winner, Italian designer Francesca Liberatore, who showed her collection this season.
DHL, fashion designers and other industry experts shared insights and real-world expertise.
19) Zappos came bearing loads of gifts for fashionistas.
If you didn’t know, Zappos is way more than just shoes. #ZapposRecharge experience lounge used NYFW as a springboard to make that common knowledge outside of Lincoln Center. With a runway and prizes every thirty minutes, consumers with the most unique social posts experienced firsthand why the rise of Zappos is no mistake. It was also refreshing to see those who couldn’t frequent the tents at Lincoln Center. This is very well played by a brand that cared enough to consider the style needs of the millions of New Yorkers who couldn’t attend #MBFW.
Zappos is way more than just shoes.
20) Lie Sang Bong’s catwalk belongs in the MoMA
The Korean design king, Lie Sang Bong made pieces that were cutting edge for his SS15 Ready to Wear collection compared to his previous sensational seasons. The butterfly prints, layered coats, lace suits and tunics were to die for. No one was ready for the tile catwalk with a mural that resembled the themes of this new season. I immediately thought of the longest liability in fashion week, instead, it was a masterpiece that played an integral role of explaining where Lie Sang Bong’s mind was. It was in a lively spring portrait, an encapsulated moment we seek to find and bask in. He is fashion’s Leonardo DaVinci.
Lie Sang Bong is fashion’s Leonardo DaVinci.
21) Malan Breton will not be outdone in pieces and tailoring.
With sixty plus looks down the runway and live traditional Taiwanese music to accompany four dancers, Malan Breton was ready to leave his guests in awe. Especially impressive were the tailored suits coming down the catwalk in all exotic colors and patterns. The seamless tailoring did not skip a beat, as blazers, bomber jackets, and trenches all seemed more bespoke than RTW. The black and fuchsia pieces were a crowd favorite and we received word that Malan Breton will be available in Harvey Nichols next year.
Malan Breton was ready to leave his guests in awe.
22) Although SS15’s inspiration was the idea of the Prenup, Betsey Johnson made some pieces to keep couples in marital bliss.
Betsey Johnson’s Prenup SS15 defined fun and risqué bridal pieces. What more can we ask for from Betsey? This is her best season yet. There was still the mad genius Betsey Johnson edge (perfect for a wedding night) with a bit subtle sophistication that most would want on their wedding day. The energy was high, the pieces did not disappoint, and the finale gave the people what they wanted. In our hearts, Betsey Johnson is the fashionable, liberal, kooky aunt we always wanted to learn about life from. Thanks for inviting us to visit your home again. We cannot wait until the fall.
Betsey Johnson is the fashionable, liberal, kooky aunt we always wanted to learn about life from.
23) The applications for the Academy of Art University will soar after seeing the SS15 presentation.
These students in this showcase had superb collections. To be seen during NYFW puts them a step above most institutions. These young and talented designers have yet to hit their prime and are expected to do amazing things in the future based on such a great showing this season.
These students in this showcase had superb collections.
24) Noon by Noor just get it.
These two are consistently brilliant. The rich color palette, the conservative dresses slightly edgy prints, a new take on classic knee-length shorts, burgundy buttoned blouse (which should be a secret weapon in any women’s wardrobe. The texture was a sight to see as beaded patterns were exceptionally placed on smooth fabrics. Noon by Noor is definitely a favorite of mine for the last two seasons for every reason, piece by piece.
Beaded patterns were exceptionally placed on smooth fabrics.
25) Best brand activation at NYFW Award: Samsung Galaxy Backstage Lounge
Okay, I won’t tell you what phone I am using but I am getting rid of it once October hits. The Samsung Galaxy Backstage Lounge Pass made this a fact for me. Celebrities and editors were introduced to the Samsung Gear S, The Samsung Galaxy Edge, and the Samsung Galaxy Note 4. I saw how easy it was to create a vivid sketch from genius illustrator, Michael Hoeweller. Chad Masters, a model who should’ve been the spokesperson for Samsung, gave the most incredible tour. Here are the details so you won’t have to wait. The phone takes widescreen selfies. There is an S pin for a sophisticated drag and drop to make sharing information and pictures easier and faster than any phone. The 16 megapixel back camera and 3.7 megapixel front beat out all competition for vivid picture quality. There is an ultra power saving mode that allows all of the programs to run and still allows your phone to stay charged for 12 days! Wait, there’s more.
Celebrities and editors were introduced to the Samsung Gear S.
Think if Nintendo 64 and the movie Tron had a child AND MULTIPLY THAT BY 1000. Add a 360 degree interactive experience and you have the Samsung Gear S VR experience. Soon there will be apps you can download to play videogames from your phone and headgear. Imagine online shopping with a 360 degree lens. With endless possibilities, there is a new vantage point for smart phone and it starts here. After a 360 tour of NYC and an African safari, it was clear that Samsung had the absolute best brand activation at MBFW.
26) FTL Moda was a great move to wish a happy 10th birthday to the Style360
The FTL MODA stage highlighted the well-known Italian prestige in fashion, hosting designers Kami Shade’, Jaime Elyse, Fri:Haend, and Gianni Tolentino. Each designer showcased stunning bridal, evening and resort wear, while incorporating complementary men’s looks. Thanks to great people at RedLightPR, we got to see the Italian flare we cannot get enough of.
We got to see the Italian flare we cannot get enough of.
27) OUDIFU was the elephant in the room.
This was a late show and worth the wait. The prints, the play of leather and silk on biker jackets, the light colors on dresses, and the scarves were all amazing. Designer Zhuliang Li really did an amazing thing for his first MBFW runway show. He proved that great design doesn’t have a set time or space. Greatness just is, and always the elephant in the room.
Greatness just is, and always the elephant in the room.
28) MM6 had the best wait line in all of MBFW
In daylight, the cameras flashed non-stop. The outfits were incredible. The invites were made for a day party, similar to what outside seemed like. The grand entrances in black SUVs and cabs were monumental. The buyers stared at editors and bloggers in awe. Socialites tried not to be seen but all were caught breaking (their shoes in) and entering (seating arrangements that gave almost everyone a front row seat. It’s Margiela. Expect nothing less.
The buyers stared at editors and bloggers in awe.
29) Vivienne Hu SS15 brought style back to the Pier
Chelsea Piers will never be the same. Vivienne Hu SS15 came, saw, and conquered Pier59. The patterns and styles all made powerful statements of the modern woman who is well-respected in all settings. She even graced invitees with pictures and interview time explaining her season. Vivienne Hu SS15 is a buyer’s dream, and hopefully, her flagship store won’t run out of the new season too fast upon release.
Vivienne Hu SS15 is a buyer’s dream.
30) Supima had the best fashion competition and best gift bags by far this season.
With cotton that is unmatched, the Supima Design competition places university seniors to showcase their collection on most popular catwalk in the world. This season, Kent State graduate, Anastasia Lafrate took the title home with a collection as wondrous as the fabric she used. The competition was hosted by the lead of Supima and supermodel Coco Rocha. The competition, crowd and host weren’t the only things that stood out. Supima manages to always surprise-invited guests with gift bags better than the rest. Brooks Brothers collaboration pocket squares, a Uniqlo Supima cotton Henley’s and other little bundles joy were the talk of the mezzanine after heading out of Lincoln Center for a break.
The competition was hosted by the lead of Supima and supermodel Coco Rocha.
31) The award for best NYFW afterparty goes to …
It’s a tie! “This is New York” party at the Tribeca Grand Hotel and the NYCult party at Up and Down. The lines were long. The drinks flowed. The music was amazing. The lists were strict. Couches were stepped on. Stares were exchanged. The fashion was out of this world. The fashion elite were all met with hangovers, explaining the eerie silence the morning after at Lincoln Center. If those BOSCO photobooths could talk…
The lists were strict. Couches were stepped on.
32) The #NYFWLive Headliner Award goes to: Michael Costello SS15
The “queen of music” practices in his designs. The “queen of reality TV” is one of his many muses. The first “Generation Y socialite” stopped by to wish him luck.
He’s setting red carpets on fire with his gowns.
He is all over Instagram, showcasing bits of his men’s accessories and setting red carpets on fire with his gowns. Michael Costello is the truth. Backstage, he seemed relaxed and ready for whatever his show would bring. I’m sure that he knew his stage would bring excellence and nothing less.
Look-for-look, Michael Costello created Divine Nymphs in gowns that moved a few people sitting by me to tears. He did a great job of capturing the mystical beauty of the free-spirited woman. The floral, the lace, the large exaggerated shoulders, the crowns: the future of all major awards shows was right before our very eyes. It was a sight to see.
A packed house stood to give Michael Costello a standing ovation, something that NYFWLive knows for sure will come early and often for this MVP.
What a ride! Signing off until next season, EKH.
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