New York Fashion Week Highlights Female Designers' Wearable
At the just-concluded New York Fashion Week, women comprised 50% of the official CFDA schedule, with designers emphasizing practical, wearable clothing
Women made up 50 percent of the designers on the official CFDA schedule at New York Fashion Week, which closed on Tuesday. The event featured 68 female-led brands on the calendar, including major names like Calvin Klein’s Veronica Leoni, Khaite’s Cate Holstein, and Tory Burch, alongside emerging talents.
Polish designer Magda Butrym, presenting in New York for the first time, remarked, “There’s so many women in charge here, and that’s so rare in the fashion world.” According to the source, Business of Fashion, the prevalence of female designers was reflected in garments that prioritized a balance between beauty and wearability, with styling suited to on-the-go lives.
The Female Gaze
A conventional feminine touch was visible across many collections. Several designers leaned into enduring trends, sending lace-adorned silk pieces and eyelet, nightgown-inspired styles down the runway. Magda Butrym used French lace for closing gowns constructed in Poland, aiming for a romantic rather than overtly sexy feel. At Khaite, silk dresses featured hand-made lace horses.
Designers also reinterpreted historically restrictive garments. TWP presented apron dresses with a leather neck strap, while Magda Butrym layered a floral-printed overcoat over a black dress. Khaite and Elena Velez showed modern takes on crinolines. Styling throughout the week focused on a subtle, wearable idea of sexiness, with sheer skirts often paired with simple shirts or sweaters.
Shopper First
Brands zeroed in on their specific customers' needs. Laura Kim, co-creative director at Monse, stated she and her partner construct their merchandise plan around known client events to create “something that she really needs.” Bags were a focal point, with several labels introducing new styles.
New York’s commercial focus was also evident in the influencer strategy. Brands increasingly invited content creators who resemble or are actual clients, rather than just celebrities with large followings. Tibi founder Amy Smilovic said at least half the attendees at her show were customers.
Daniella Kallmeyer contrasted the New York approach with European shows, saying, The Paris shows are amazing, but they’re filled with fantasy. She argued that New York blends creativity with practicality, an area where female designers excel. The report concludes by noting designers in the city are embracing their market appeal as a point of pride.
