New York Fashion Week sharpened its focus this season, with minimalism leading the narrative. Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Fforme, Ralph Lauren, TWP and Khaite distilled their collections down to soft tailoring, calming neutrals and clean lines, reaffirming that pared-back elegance remains a key pillar of American design.
Still, simplicity came with contrast. Harem pants reemerged at Brandon Maxwell, Adam Lippes and Ashlyn, bringing volume and a hint of escapism. Loose folds and fluid proportions offered a counterpoint to the classic cuts that defined the week’s more minimal moments.
The season also leaned heavily into the notion of imperfection. At Khaite, Jason Wu and Coach, raw hems, distressed finishes and deliberate deconstruction gave clothes a lived-in quality. Wu’s undone edges s