Flying Solo made waves once again at New York Fashion Week, spotlighting a fresh wave of emerging designers from around the world. Held on the stunning terrace of 22 Vanderbilt, with breathtaking views of the iconic Grand Central Terminal and Chrysler Building, the show offered guests not only cutting-edge fashion but also a quintessential New York City experience.
This season’s presentation featured over 60 designers, each bringing something unique to the table. From contemporary ready-to-wear outfits to show-stopping couture gowns, the runway was filled with collections that combined bold creativity with meticulous craftsmanship. The diversity and dynamism of the designs reflected the global appeal of Flying Solo, a platform known for giving emerging talent the opportunity to shine at one of the biggest events in fashion.
The show’s success was also due in large part to the work of head stylist Alina Kotsiuba. Her expertise in curating looks from a wide range of designers created a seamless narrative that brought out the best in every collection. Kotsiuba’s ability to blend pieces from different creators into cohesive, high-fashion ensembles highlighted the collaborative spirit that defines Flying Solo. The show was a testament to the brand’s commitment to uniting fashion professionals and fostering a strong, creative community.
Flying Solo is renowned for its role as a collaborative hub where designers, stylists, and creatives can connect, share ideas, and build something extraordinary together. Their continued success at NYFW underscores their influence within the industry, proving that they are not just showcasing emerging talent, but also setting trends and influencing the future of fashion.
This spectacular event was documented by renowned photographers and videographers, including Getty Images, Mariya Nicole @mariyanicolemvp Alex Callejo (@ac_photography_chicago), Kandavelu Murugavelu (@kanthanclips), and Bairma Gyndunova (@ba_irma), capturing the magic of the runway in stunning visuals.
TALA by Tala Alamuddin
Tala Alamuddin, the founder and creative director of TALA by Tala Alamuddin, is a British-Lebanese designer currently based in Singapore. Her brand was born from a passion for self-expression and a commitment to creating bold, functional accessories that empower women. Each piece reflects her unique blend of authenticity, sustainability, and craftsmanship. TALA celebrates individuality, encouraging women to embrace their uniqueness through versatile designs that are stylish yet practical. With a focus on using existing materials and offering customization, TALA transforms old items into fresh, reimagined accessories.
Her latest collection, Dopamine Dreams, is inspired by the pursuit of genuine joy and global harmony. Using vibrant colors like green and neon, Tala aims to celebrate interconnectedness and the shared dream of peace and equality. The collection features the scientific symbols of happy hormones, reinforcing the idea that joy is universal. Her advice for aspiring designers is to stay true to their core values, create with intention, and always infuse their work with kindness and purpose.
Hala & Tatiana
Hala & Tatiana is a fresh and vibrant fashion accessories brand, developed in 2018 by entrepreneur Hala AlSharekh and interior architect Tatiana Shelala. Leaving their personal imprints on the collection, Hala and Tatiana share a desire to create culturally evocative, iconic and stylish accessories. The conception of this project has meant that, together, they could explore and adapt what that means for them as designers and modern women.
The brand creates remarkable Plexiglass clutches that are embroidered, painted and crafted entirely by hand. Each clutch is a testament to artisanal skill and ornamentation; and splices elements of mysticism and patterning with contemporary aesthetics and simplicity. This collection showcases the finest Swarovski crystals and silks; and presents a visceral and tactile experience for every woman, style and occasion. Each piece is to be donned and loved for its individuality.
Iza By Silvia D’Avila
France’s influence on art, architecture, and culture has long been undeniable, and for Silvia D’Avila, designer that stands behind the brand, the connection to Paris runs deep, despite not being by heritage. Through years of study, travel, and observation, Paris became a place of profound inspiration. The designer frequently visits the city, finding beauty in its blend of old-world charm and modern-day life. Whether it’s witnessing children sketching in museums or sitting in a café surrounded by books, the everyday scenes of Paris continue to inspire creativity. Even without fluent knowledge of the language, the essence of the city is unmistakably felt.
This sentiment has culminated in Silvia’s latest collection, Ode to Paris, which draws from years of admiration for the city’s elegance and artistic heritage. Inspired by the pages of art school books and real-life experiences, the collection is a tribute to Paris’s timeless beauty. Each piece is designed to evoke the same feelings of wonder and sophistication that the city itself embodies. With Ode to Paris, the designer invites wearers to experience a piece of that inspiration, blending classic influences with contemporary sensibilities.
Kelly Bello Design
Kelly Bello Design (KBD) was established in 2014 by New York-based fine jewelry designer Kelly Bello, who hails from Colombia. After completing her studies at Pratt Institute, Kelly channeled her creative energy into launching KBD, bringing her vision to life through her unique approach to fine jewelry.
With a background in industrial design, Kelly’s work is defined by sculptural yet playful forms. Her designs, known for their clean lines and graphic appeal, often feature customizable elements, making her a pioneer in the realm of wearable art. Inspired by minimalist design, light, shadows, and the diverse cultures she has encountered through her travels, KBD pieces combine precious metals with fine gemstones and pearls. Each collection reflects her ability to merge artistic vision with modern trends, resulting in bold, fashion-forward jewelry that retains an air of elegance and timeless charm.
Lidia Gems Jewelry
Lidieth Peguero, a passionate jewelry designer, founded Lidia Gems Jewelry with a vision of creating unique, gemstone-based pieces that combine style, elegance, and affordability. The brand, known for its use of natural gemstones set in high-quality silver, aims to connect wearers with the energies embedded in these stones. Peguero’s love for high-quality, everyday-wear jewelry inspired the creation of Lidia Gems, which offers distinct, stylish designs that resonate with nature’s essence. The brand emphasizes individuality and the deeper meanings behind each gemstone, encouraging wearers to express themselves while embracing the natural world.
Lidia Gems’ latest collection draws inspiration from the divine energy within natural gemstones, with each piece crafted to evoke specific emotions and manifestations. Peguero highlights the privilege of wearing jewelry connected to nature, adding purpose and meaning to each design. As she continues to grow her brand, Peguero advises aspiring entrepreneurs to trust in their ideas and find what sets them apart in the fashion industry.
Patricia Stanley
Nikki is the CEO, founder, and creative force behind Patricia Stanley, a ring watch and jewelry collection launched in 2020. With over 20 years of experience in the global accessories market, including buying, design, product development, and sourcing, Nikki created Patricia Stanley as a tribute to her two children. After a successful career developing watches for major fashion retailers, she spotted a gap in the market for a unique and nostalgic accessory, leading her to launch her own brand during the pandemic.
Patricia Stanley is known for its elegant and timeless ring watches, designed to make a bold statement with premium materials and interchangeable parts. The latest collection features diamanté bezels, with plans to launch stand-alone ring head components in 2024. Inspired by years of experience and a passion for accessories, the brand appeals to those who want a distinctive timepiece that complements any outfit without the distractions of smart technology. Nikki’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to have a solid plan, find a good mentor, embrace feedback, and be prepared for the unexpected while pursuing your dream.
PK BIJOUX
PK Bijoux is the creation of PK, a California-based artist, former model, and citizen of the world. Like the best art, her work is intensely personal. She says she has a feeling that she doesn’t so much find her pieces but rather her pieces find her. She’s inspired by artists like Picasso, Basquiat, and de Kooning and designers such as Elsa Schiaparelli. Christian Lacroix, and Dries Van Noten. Perfection is never sought but emotions are. As Diana Vreeland said: “The eye has to travel.”
When PK creates, she enters a state of dreamlike reverie where the outcome is never certain but always exceptional. The core values guiding PK Bijoux’s designs have been passed down from her Cherokee heritage: a pursuit of a holistic life, the beauty of everything under the sun, and little flaws and surprises in her work. They quite often just show up and she purposely does not address them. In American Indian cultures, tiny flaws or random diversions lead the bad spirits out of the piece.
PK’s wearable art creations are inspired by eras such as ancient Egypt, the Hapsburg dynasty, la Belle Époque and her own Native American ancestry, and comprise anything from hand-carved jade, antique tassels from the 1800s, semi-precious stones, and Miriam Haskell jewelry, to everyday objects and antique market discoveries. It’s a brilliant take on sustainability! The artist originally makes every piece for herself, starting each creation with the idea that she will keep it, yet never wearing it, wanting the piece to be solely for its new owner. Each piece tells a story.
Six collections comprise the work of PK Bijoux. The M. Antoinette Collection, featuring light yet baroque pieces, was inspired by the eponymous monarch. The Passion Collection captures the seduction of love with surprises that warm the heart. The Heroes Collection is an homage to heroic acts of yesteryear. The Saints Collection reveals PK’s style in which crosses become a modernistic, sophisticated design expression inspired by Verdura and Chanel. The Rebel Collection skirts the edge of over-the-top and channels our rebellious spark. The Runway Collection shares the excitement of international haute couture.
Anneli Tammik Jewellery
A creative at heart, the founder of this brand always knew that pursuing a path in design was inevitable. After graduation, starting the brand felt like the natural progression. Over time, it became clear that their work resonated with an audience, and more importantly, it brought personal fulfillment, confirming they were on the right path.
The brand focuses on experimentation with new technologies and pushing the boundaries of materials and techniques. Each collection aims to discover something new, with a special focus on transitioning from flat ornaments to three-dimensional sculptural jewelry. The latest collections, Nix Flores and Net Flores, draw inspiration from the beauty and strength of nature—reflecting the harsh yet stunning landscapes of the Nordic region. The intricate designs serve as a reminder of resilience, forming a protective net to guard the spirit. The advice for aspiring designers: follow your dream, and with determination, you will achieve it.
Ironhorse Quillwork
Joe Big Mountain, an Indigenous artist of Mohawk, Cree, and Comanche descent, founded his fashion brand with the aim of bringing the traditional art of quillwork to a broader audience. With a deep passion for art that has been nurtured throughout his life, Joe saw fashion as the perfect medium to celebrate and share his cultural heritage. Through his designs, he introduces quillwork to new spaces, elevating its presence in contemporary fashion while preserving its cultural significance.
Rooted in Indigenous traditions, Joe Big Mountain’s brand reflects the historical practice of using quillwork as a symbol of wealth and status. His latest collection draws inspiration from the natural world, featuring abstract designs and vibrant custom colors that tell stories of love and connection through their hues. Joe encourages aspiring designers to follow their dreams, take bold risks, and trust in the creative process, reminding them that passion is the key to success.
Chanii B
Chantal Pilon is the designer and creator of Chanii B, a luxury footwear brand founded in 2012. Originally from Canada and now based in the UK, Chantal brings a rich heritage in footwear design, crafting her shoes in Portugal using premium European materials. Her avant-garde approach to shoe design has paved the way for a brand that balances comfort, elegance, and bold, unconventional styles.
Chanii B was inspired by the desire to bridge ultra-luxury and premium footwear, offering women both comfort and style with unique, standout designs. The brand’s latest collection focuses on bold, iridescent colors with intricate details like leather laser-cut feathers and scales, designed to shine and capture attention. Chantal’s advice to aspiring designers is to follow their passion, listen to their customers, and persevere through the challenges of building a brand from the ground up.
Inari Jewellery
Eva, the founder and designer of Inari Jewellery, launched her demi-fine artisanal jewellery brand after spending nine years as a Management Consultant living in the UK, US, and Singapore. Inari Jewellery offers delicate, minimalist pieces that embody understated elegance, blending modern simplicity with subtle luxury. Each piece is thoughtfully handcrafted to highlight fine details and gemstones, making them versatile for both casual and formal settings. Designed for the modern individual who values quality and quiet luxury, Inari Jewellery creates meaningful statements of style and personality through refined, timeless designs.
Inspired by her family’s heritage in goldsmithing and her experiences with independent designers while living abroad, Eva founded Inari to fill a gap in Malaysia’s demi-fine space. The brand bridges artisanal luxury with sustainability, offering pieces that are wearable, affordable, and tailored to the individual. Her latest collection, created for NYFW, pushes creative boundaries while staying true to Inari’s love for gemstones, embracing the whimsical flow of life. Eva advises aspiring designers to stay true to their vision, listen to their inner voice, and avoid getting lost in comparison.
Gauhar
Gaga Murray, founder of Gauhar, launched her brand in 2018 in Dubai before relocating to Miami in 2019, where she now operates with her team. The name Gauhar, meaning “diamond” in Arabic, is a reflection of the brand’s essence—elegant and timeless jewelry. Gaga’s passion for working with stones and gems is deeply personal, serving as her meditation and source of inspiration throughout the creative process.
Inspired by art, architecture, and design, Gauhar aims to create jewelry that lasts a lifetime, evoking memories and carrying meaning across generations. Her latest collection blends the cultural influences of her roots in Kazakhstan and Dubai, combining far eastern flair with a modern twist. Gaga encourages those starting a jewelry brand to learn the craft thoroughly, experiment with different materials, and get certified in gemstones to enhance their understanding and confidence in the business.
MuMi&Co
Rebeca Muñoz Mills is the founder and CEO of MuMi&Co, a brand born from her love for art and her desire to create with her own hands. Her design philosophy is rooted in naturalness, embracing imperfections as the essence of true beauty. This approach is reflected in the finishes of her pieces, celebrating the organic, raw qualities that make each creation unique.
Rebeca’s latest collection is inspired by the cosmos, the universe, and the energies that surround us. Crafted entirely from recycled silver and made by hand, each piece channels the strength and power of the universe, making the wearer feel empowered. Her advice for aspiring designers is to be persistent, build a strong team, and embrace both the challenges and dreams that come with the journey.
JP Pierre
JP Pierre is a distinguished name in luxury footwear, with over five decades of expertise in crafting premium leather shoes. Known for its dedication to exceptional craftsmanship, the company has become a leader in the industry, merging traditional artisanal techniques with cutting-edge innovation. Founded in 1970, JP Pierre has pioneered complex construction methods, continually refining their approach to deliver high-quality, handcrafted footwear.
In 2020, JP Pierre expanded its horizons by exporting its products globally, earning widespread acclaim for its meticulous attention to detail and superior craftsmanship. The brand draws inspiration from classic designs, seamlessly blending them with modern elements to create footwear that is both timeless and sophisticated. Each pair is crafted by skilled artisans using only the finest leathers and materials, ensuring durability, comfort, and a sense of luxury. With a talented design team, JP Pierre continues to uphold the highest standards of quality, offering shoes that embody elegance and innovation in equal measure.
Chandra Keyser
CHANDRA KEYSER was born from a blend of personal experiences, including a background in graphic design, a love for travel, fashion, and exposure to entrepreneurial stories during the founder’s time in marketing at the New York Stock Exchange. After leaving the corporate world, the founder studied handbag making in Florence, Italy, where the craft and design process ignited a true passion.
The brand is dedicated to sustainability and high-quality craftsmanship, with each accessory handcrafted by master Italian artisans. The latest collection features UPPEAL™ vegan leather, created from repurposed apple waste, highlighting the brand’s commitment to zero-waste practices and environmental responsibility. The founder’s advice to aspiring designers: pursue your passion, embrace change, and keep pushing forward through challenges.
Aks Mathur
Aks Mathur is the designer and founder of the Seattle-based brand Aks Mathur. The brand was established from Aks’ desire to express ideas through functional, artistic designs. Rather than relying on words, Aks communicates thoughts by punching and painting on leather, transforming each piece into a unique, handcrafted work of art. The result is a collection of premium leather goods that showcase originality and exceptional craftsmanship. Every product is the outcome of a thoughtful design process, followed by hours of dedicated work in the workshop, blending artistry with functionality. Each item is carefully handcrafted from cutting and stitching to painting, reflecting Aks’ commitment to combining beauty with practicality.
Aks’ journey began in 2013 with the creation of The Naked Alien, a luxury leather accessories brand that ignited a passion for using leather as a canvas for creative expression. In 2017, The Naked Alien evolved into Aks Mathur, with the same mission of producing art-inspired pieces. Every design reflects intricate detailing, merging beauty with usability. Today, the Aks Mathur brand continues to deliver exclusive, high-quality leather products that are both functional and artistic.
Lecarle Jewels
LECARLE was founded from a deep passion and an insatiable drive to explore new meanings through the art of jewelry. The brand seeks to go beyond mere adornment, aiming to express both art and culture through every piece it creates. At LECARLE, jewelry is not just an accessory; it’s a form of storytelling, where each creation embodies the emotions, experiences, and artistic vision of the designer. With a focus on craftsmanship and artistic integrity, LECARLE strives to elevate jewelry to a medium of personal and cultural expression, showcasing designs that speak to individuality and creative passion.
Rather than adhering to seasonal trends, LECARLE is guided by a commitment to timelessness, delicacy, and meticulous curation. Each piece is crafted with careful attention to detail, ensuring that it not only captures the essence of the moment but also holds lasting value. The brand’s mission is to awaken a desire for jewelry that transcends fashion, offering pieces that evoke emotion and become cherished for years to come. By embracing timeless design and thoughtful craftsmanship, LECARLE creates jewelry that resonates with those who seek beauty, meaning, and longevity in every piece they wear.
Confi
Alice Kwon, founder and designer of CONFI, launched her brand in Korea in October 2022. After studying in the U.S. and gaining experience in fashion magazines and trading companies, Alice created CONFI to blend elegance, confidence, and individuality into women’s fashion. The brand name, derived from the Spanish word “confianza,” reflects its core values of confidence and honesty. Starting with unique, handcrafted bags, CONFI has expanded into niche perfumes, with all products produced by skilled Korean artisans.
Inspired by her love for art, architecture, and design, Alice created CONFI to offer versatile, luxurious products that empower women. The latest collection, featuring elegant handbags and a perfume called Night in Seoul, is a personal reflection of her experiences and memories, blending style with meaningful storytelling. Alice advises aspiring designers to embrace their vision, start slowly, and believe in their ability to bring their creative ideas to life.
Solomeina
SOLOMEINA is a jewelry brand that emphasizes a unique approach to design, letting the materials inspire the final form of each piece. It stands for truth and quality, choosing to celebrate rather than conceal the natural characteristics of the materials used. The brand’s jewelry is handcrafted, reflecting the designers’ perspective of the world. Each piece is intended to convey dynamism and free-flowing qualities, making every item personal and original.
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With love,
FWO
