Every year, New York Fashion Week gives us the best peek into the future of fashion. The shows earlier this month showcased the perfect mix of progressive designs and unique silhouettes that highlighted what the spring/summer 2025 season will look like. Many designers paid homage to their iconic history while others leaned into modern trends. Overall, it was a fun mix of colors, patterns, textures and emotions. Here are some of the most talked-about shows of the season.
No one can talk about this year’s NYFW without mentioning the Alaïa show at the Guggenheim Museum. The show was truly one-of-a-kind and displayed the brilliance Pieter Mulier puts into his designs. With the background of the beautiful museum, the models walked the hallways looking as if they were walking through their outfits. This visual came to life due to the fabrics being mostly constructed of airy translucent material that looked like it was flowing through the air. A major theme in the show was structured bodices and flowy skirts, making the garments look like pieces of art perfectly placed in the museum. The show was also recognized for the impressive guest list which included Rihanna, Lewis Hamilton and Greta Lee. Overall, the Alaia show was a transcendent experience for viewers and showcased that spring of next year might contain lots of flowy silhouettes and translucent styles.
One of my personal favorite shows was the Sandy Liang spring/summer 2025 showcase. The brand is generally known for its fun and feminine aesthetic, mostly consisting of bows and ruffles, which made it a big part of the “ballet-core” trend. Over time, the trend has faded and so has the attention on the brand, but the latest show marks a change. Liang’s collection was very reminiscent of the 1980s, which reminded me of the “Carrie Diaries” prom episode. The show featured many dramatic shoulder pads and glamorous satin skirt sets mixed with the signature Sandy Liang color scheme of pinks and grays. Another key theme Liang ventured into for this show was the aesthetic of “the working girl” shown through the use of tailored jackets and structured lapels. It was almost as if the brand was making a statement that they are not a “one-trend wonder,” but a brand here to stay. This show made clear that Sandy Liang has the potential to solidify its status as an “it-girl brand” by the next season.
Although Sandy Liang’s commitment to change was a welcomed development, there were many shows during NYFW that proved that staying true to one’s legacy can also be a great thing. Ralph Lauren’s showcase was the perfect example. The Ralph Lauren brand has been a marker for elegance and simplicity for a long time, remaining consistent in its aesthetic. The spring/summer 2025 collection showcased a sense of sophistication and nautical spirit, reminiscent of the Hamptons, highlighted by the use of lots of navy and white fabrics. The show perfectly portrayed the timeless elegance of quiet luxury. There were many silk dresses, tailored suits and straw accessories that evoked the feeling of standing on the beach, watching the sunset with the wind rustling through your hair. Those looking for their main character moment should definitely look towards Ralph Lauren for the picture-perfect wardrobe.
Another one of my personal favorite shows of the season was the Erdem show. Erdem has a reputation as a cutting-edge fashion house and this show was no different. The designs were truly extravagant with embellishments and sequins. Mint green was highlighted in a variety of forms, including structured coats and elaborate lace dresses. It was almost as if the elegance and silhouettes of the Victorian era met the fun of “Emily in Paris.” Other than the colors, the show was beautifully crafted with all types of fabrics and a variety of textures, showcasing the all-encompassing potential of the brand. The show also marked a big step for the androgynous movement, showcasing many styles including fluid suits and dresses that showcased how fashion truly has no gender. Erdem’s significance in society is just starting and I am sure it’s going to stay for a long time.
One new brand that showcased its own unique charm this season was JW Anderson. The collection showcased refinement, mixed with domineering silhouettes and a sense of innovation. The key garment used in multiple looks was a UFO-looking circular leather mini skirt that paired oddly well with all the many outfits it was used in. Anderson also utilized darker colors and architecturally powerful lines, highlighting the edgy theme of the show. As a viewer, I could tell the collection was symbolic of modernity and the possibilities in the future of fashion. It was a daring step forward and I am excited to see the impact JW Anderson has in the upcoming seasons.
Each year, NYFW pushes the limits of fashion, and this year was no different. Fashion made a great mark in New York City and exemplified the creative power of the industry. Many brands such as Sandy Liang and Erdem dared to be different while others such as Ralph Lauren stayed true to their iconic identity. Others like Alaia and JW Anderson showcased how fashion is an extension of art and deserves the recognition it gets. Overall, the development of the next season is still ongoing and ever-changing. These shows might give us a great peek as to what the trends are going to be, but it also shows that everyone has their own diverse interpretation of fashion which strengthens the individuality of the industry.