NYFW 2018 101

Kicking things off in the fashion week scene is the Big Apple, the melting pot of ethnic cultures and eclectic fashion. Held in February and September each year, household brands and emerging designers alike compete to showcase their latest collections in the digital era of the Insta-generation. As social upheaval arises and consumer demand grows, lines like Fenty Puma by Rihanna shine among what America has best to offer since gender fluidity and diversity come into the picture.

Once known for dressy numbers, ball gowns and jazzy conservative dress cuts during the early 20th century, NYFW is now a pulsating fashion scene with an economic impact of $887 million towards New York City alone. Yet, it faces a challenging future as youth are more inclined to shop online and getting instant scoops on the clothes they want while big-name luxury brands prefer to play it safe on their European home turf. To counter the fall in NYFW’s popularity, brands are increasingly looking to apply New York’s biggest draw, its multi-ethnic, subculture-infused cornucopia. Neon colours, hip-hop and 80s style, athleisure and leather black compete with polo styles, naval, pop art and flapper influence. Meanwhile, plus-size acceptance is on the rise along with racial diversity specifically Latino, Black and Asian influences despite Western fashion’s very much Caucasian character.

If you’re willing to splurge, look out for Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, Bottega Veneta, Carolina Herrera and Anna Sui for inspiration. But if a flowing gown or oversized coat isn’t your thing, dress up New York with bold leather jackets, sunglasses, polo wear, statement handbags, coffee cup in hand, tracksuits and sneakers along with pastel, clean clothes to bring out your inner working woman.

Leather print, hot pink, and shades scream 80s influence and cyberpunk looks. Alexander Wang. (Picture: www.forbes.com)

Supermodel Gigi Hadid looks straight out of an anime with neon pastel influences and athletic bare midriff jacket. Jeremy Scott

(Picture: www.syracuse.com)

Naval influence is strong as a simple tote bag, navy blue, crisp white and cruise become a showstopper. Ralph Lauren. (Picture: www.syracuse.com)

Riding the success of the Marvel franchise, Afro-futurism takes centre stage in Black Panther’s showcase. Welcome to Wakanda. (Picture: www.gettyimages.com)