During New York Fashion Week (NYFW), critics, fashion lovers, and editors with a sharp eye attend shows to pluck and predict your Fall 2023 ready-to-wear wardrobe from this season’s collections. Shows like Sandy Liang were primed with flirty and feminine silhouettes, while Khaite and Proenza Schouler further solidified their grasp on business casual chic. Between the bold and whimsical realities of Collina Strada and the defined utilitarianism of Brandon Maxwell, what’s most obvious is a tension between the two. Where wearable and structured clothing — ushered in perhaps by a wave of trendy preppy styles and TikTok’s obsession with “new money aesthetics” — clashes with an ode to maximalism, grandeur patterns, and prints.
Among them all, I’ve identified the top trends of the season. From metallics and sheer taking center stage, to draped and slouchy textures, read on to see our picks.
Lace & Sheer
Sandy Liang championed a feminine take on lace and sheer fabrics and was also noticeable in shows from LaQuan Smith and Christian Cowan. Sheer styles can be intimidating, but fear not; layer with a bralette, tank, or on top of a dress for optimal wearability.
Free People Lady Lux Layering Top
Available in Sugar Maple.
$40
Miaou Thais Dress
Available in Black Monogram.
$177
Zara Semi-Sheer Lace Top
Available in Black.
$69.90
Réalisation Par Cindy Dress
Available in Noir.
$120
Draped Fabrics
Textured fabrics were everywhere this season, like at Altuzarra and Tory Burch, both of which added draping and ruching to dresses and tops. Elevate your night out attire with a ruched bodysuit or top and pair with high waisted denim and kitten heels.
Abercrombie & Fitch Long-Sleeve Ruched Wrap Bodysuit
Available in White.
$60
H&M Gathered Dress
Available in Black.
$34.99
LA Made Cheers Draped Neck Top
Available in Pewter.
$53
H&M Gathered Dress
Available Light beige.
$49.99
Metallics
A party season favorite and notoriously sold out, metallic pants and company were spotted on the runways of Proenza Schouler and Coach. Add a touch of color by opting for pink or green metallics or take a toned down approach with a classic silver tone.
Jeffrey Campbell Dagger Western Boots
Available in Light Pink Metallic.
$270
Frame Le Mini Skirt
Available in Silver Chrome.
$328
Alix NYC Jay Pant
Available in Pink.
$395
Ganni Small Hobo Bag
Available in Silver.
$255
Brown & Burgundy Leathers
Ulla Johnston and Coach mastered deep browns and burgundies throughout their ready-to-wear collections. Where Jonhston illustrated her classic boho aesthetic, Coach leaned into their pristine leather making with matching sets. Instead of a classic black pant, opt for brown or burgundy to fully embrace the changing of the leaves.
Abercrombie & Fitch Vegan Leather 90s Straight Pant
Available in Dark Brown.
$110
CultNaked Bandeau Top
Available in Choco.
$140
House of CB Asymmetric Faux Leather Gathered Top
Available in Wine.
$165
Camila Coelho Jas Leather Mini Skirt
Available in Brown.
$269
Practical Pieces
Gabriela Hearst, The Row, Brandon Maxwell, you name it, many designers took a sharp and minimalist approach to redefining everyday pieces fit for crafting a capsule wardrobe. These wardrobe staples are ideal for college students looking for timeless pieces that can also translate to the work world. Need we say more?
Abercrombie & Fitch Classic Suiting Blazer
Available in Cream.
$120
Madewell The Zip-Top Medium Transport Leather Tote
Available in True Black.
$188
Zara Straight Cargo Pants
Available in Sand.
$49.90
Wilfred The New Only Coat
Available in Black.
$350
