The Best of NYFW: 5 Collections You Need to See!
New York Fashion Week for Fall/Winter 2025/2026 was a whirlwind of creativity, and after seeing all the stunning collections, it’s clear that designers pushed the boundaries in both style and storytelling. This season felt like it had something for everyone, whether it was the vivid themes in various collections or certain design details that staked their claim for Fall/Winter 2025. Each designer captured a unique vision, offering fresh takes on familiar themes, innovative techniques, and, of course, some serious wardrobe envy. Here’s a closer look at the collections that stole the show and left a lasting impression!
(Pictured: Anna Sui F/W 25/26 collection from Fashion Snoops)
1. Anna Sui
Anna Sui’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection is a masterclass in eclectic nostalgia, blending a bit of Edwardian-esque opulence with punk-infused edge. Rich brocade prints, bold tartans, and tactile elements like faux fur collars and knitted accessories bring a sense of layered storytelling to each look. For me, this collection portrayed a dark, romantic, and utterly bohemian elegance for the Fall/Winter season. I enjoyed the use of jewel tones and funky pattern mixing throughout, alongside the playfulness of the silhouettes. Belts seem to be a popular addition this Fashion Week, and I appreciated the way they were utilized as both an accessory and a means of definition for each look, breaking up the more jarring combinations of patterns and delivering an effective balance.
(Pictured: Coach F/W 25/26 collection from WWD)
2. Coach
Coach’s collection featured a pleasing blend of streetwear and luxury, and it reflected the brand’s shift toward catering to its Gen Z audience. I loved the use of animal slippers and bag charms in this collection, since it illustrated a more playful approach to the neutral palettes. I’m a huge sucker for the dresses and skirts over pants trend, so seeing it on the runway brought a smile to my face! The lived-in leather bags evoked a sense of authenticity, while elements like the long, trailing tails of the belts and exaggerated proportions felt like a love letter to downtown New York’s effortlessly undone style.
(Pictured: Collina Strada F/W 25/26 collection from Fashion Snoops)
3. Collina Strada
True to the designer’s DNA, the Collina Strada looks from this Fashion Week exuded a punk-fairy energy, celebrating self-expression through unconventional styling. This collection was a bold, chaotic symphony of clashing patterns, deconstructed silhouettes, and ethereal grunge, and I’m so here for how it exudes a maximalist ethos. Accessories like embellished masks, chunky jewelry and oversized eyewear added a surrealist touch, turning the runway into a playful, yet rebellious dreamscape. I also liked how this collection seemed to embrace its sheer fabrics, pairing them with heavyweight materials to create a satisfying balance!
(Pictured: Jane Wade F/W 25/26 collection from WWD)
4. Jane Wade
I’m always down for a good storyline during a show. After all, the collection should be trying to immerse you, right? That’s precisely what Jane Wade’s looks did for me this season! The designer crafted various corporate archetypes through her pieces, demonstrating the office hierarchy throughout the show. This spanned from interns and executive assistants to senior vice presidents and chief financial officers, all of their power dynamics highlighted through the clothing each model wore. Pinstripes and utilitarian elements were rampant on the runway, with additions like intricate knitwear and captivating metallic details catching the eye.
(Pictured: Sandy Liang F/W 25/26 collection from WWD)
5. Sandy Liang
For me, my memories of childhood nostalgia often stems from the giddiness of taking a trip to Toys “R” Us. From Polly Pocket to Barbie dolls to Furbies (I had one and got scared of it when it turned evil after I forgot to feed it...No joke!), I could always lose myself in the various toy aisles. Sandy Liang’s Fall/Winter collection had me swimming in that feeling from the moment I laid my eyes upon the vibrant colors, doll-like makeup looks and youthful design aesthetic. Certain pieces were adorned with smaller versions of the garment, which totally reminded me of those matching outfit sets you could get for you and your American Girl doll to twin in! Other ensembles were decked in whimsical features like confetti fringe and bubbly prints, which accented nicely with the more mature looks shown throughout the collection.