Inspired by “balletcore”, “pilates princess” aesthetics, and a recent focus on pastels and neutrals, the influx of ribbons and bows on the runway at this year’s New York Fashion Week (NYFW) has made quite a statement. From September 7 through September 13, the city was abuzz with global celebrities running around the city to keep up with a packed schedule of shows and all the nightlife New York City has to offer. Ribbons were omnipresent, accessorizing and even being the articles of clothing themselves – signifying the influence of mainstream trends such as styles reminiscent of ballet and classically feminine arts. This illustrates a mutual relationship between the designers and the point where their lines become fast fashion “dupes”.
Several standout moments saw the debut of satin and feminine appendages on the runway. Sandy Liang’s draped bow bags, for instance, offered both a gorgeous and functional use of the trend. The bags come in a number of colors, all of which adhere to the calm palette focused on pastel pinks, classic neutrals, and a striking chartreuse shade that elevates the springtime essence of this perfectly themed collection. More ribbons made their mark in Tanner Fletcher’s bow suits, Helmut Lang’s hair ribbons, and even giant inflatable bows made an appearance at the Marshall Columbia for Cash by Cash App launch party.
Fashion Week street style likewise embraced the bow trend. Ashley Rous, a fashion influencer and former stylist behind the YouTube channel “bestdressed”, sported a pink off-the-shoulder bow over a white lace dress, a bow bag, and bow adorned tights to the Sandy Liang show. Meanwhile, actress Nicole Kidman continued the trend, captivating onlookers at Fashion Week in a pastel blue gown layered with numerous chiffon bows.
In tandem with the use of bows and feminine embellishments, the subtlety of the pastels and soft fabrics complemented the everyday wearability of these fashion statements. Gabriela Hearst, LaQuan Smith, and Sandy Liang showcased looks that could effortlessly transition from the closet to the runway, a rarity for such a high-fashion affair.
In additon to the prevalence of satin ties all over garments and accessories, last year’s trend of favoring iconic backdrops and majestic architecture has been revived. Notable settings during the event included the historic main branch of the New York Public Library, the Rainbow Room, and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, among others.
Designer Prabal Gurung utilized the city’s public library to set the scene of his starlit escape, largely inspired by meditation and his Nepalese heritage. Models graced the runway in asymmetrical draped ensembles, featuring subdued greens and pinks. Notably following the pastel trend, a pale pink satin suit was a memorable highlight and beautiful homage to Gurung’s heritage. Reflecting on his work, the designer told CNN “I wanted people to forget for 10 minutes that they are in New York — to feel like they are on a spiritual journey with me to Nepal.” Ultimately, ribbons and bows act as an integral extension of the various trends, encompassing settings, atmospheres, and color palettes. It is truly evident how influential the lean towards ballet-inspired, highly feminine couture has been on the runway this year at New York Fashion Week.
