During New York Fashion Week, street style is where the season actually begins.
It’s the first real interpretation of fashion — how it looks outside the runway, on real people, in real time. Kate Smolianinova has become a consistent part of that visual landscape. Her looks are regularly featured in all major american fashion publications — often within their Best Street Style selections. Season after season, she remains part of the conversation, contributing to how New York Fashion Week is seen and remembered.
Her approach to dressing is shaped by experience, but also by trial and error — something she speaks about openly. “I’ve definitely made mistakes,” she says. “Wearing looks that looked beautiful, but didn’t feel like me. And you can always see that.” That awareness became a turning point. Instead of chasing trends, her focus shifted toward something more personal — a balance between fashion and identity. “For me, it’s important to follow what’s happening in fashion — but not blindly,” she explains. “You still have to remember your own style. If you don’t feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows immediately.” That mindset translates into her presence during New York Fashion Week — looks that feel current, but never disconnected from who she is.
She often references designers that reflect that balance — “My favorites right now are Khaite, Proenza Schouler, Bevza, Altuzarra, Tory Burch — and I really love what Calvin Klein has been doing lately. It all feels very clean and very relevant.” For her, New York Fashion Week is not just another event in the calendar, but a defining moment in the industry. “It’s where everything starts. We’re the first to show how fashion actually looks in real life — and that sets the tone for the entire season.”
As the industry moves forward into the next chapter, there’s already a sense of anticipation. Another season is just around the corner — new collections, new interpretations, new energy on the streets of New York. And with it, the expectation of seeing what comes next — not only from the designers, but from the people who bring those ideas to life.
Photo Credit: Jeremy Moeller
Photo Credit: Stephanie McLaughlin
Photo Credit: Jani Grigoryan
Look Credits:
Look 1
Fur jacket Janet Howard New York
Fringe skirt Kobi Halperin
Boots Paris Texas
Belt B-low the belt
Bag Michino Paris
Look 2
Blouse and jeans Kobi Halperin
Boots Dear Frances
Bag Gerard Darel
Shades Vehla
Look 3
Trench coat and turtleneck sweater Janet Howard New York
Skirt Meilleur moment
Fuzzy heels Steve Madden
Bag CHARLES & KEITH
Gloves Bottega Veneta
Look 4
Sweater Meilleur Moment
Suede skirt Gerard Darel
Sheer knee-highs Calzedonia
Mules Philip Lim
Bag Demellier London
Shades Illesteva
