My Sister Works for a Modeling Agency—Here Are the 5 Biggest Trends She Saw During New York Fashion Week

Fringe is back, but not just for Coachella—it’s channeling Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s understated elegance this season. At Ralph Lauren, sleek white pants with just a touch of fringe along the sides proved that even the most classic pieces can have a playful edge. “Paired with a crisp blazer, it’s the perfect day-to-night look without going overboard,” Jilly says. Then there was Nanushka, where fringe took center stage in a soft yellow top, effortlessly paired with a leather skirt. Jilly’s take? “The combo felt modern, edgy and chic for date night.” And if you’re all about making a grand entrance, Proenza Schouler’s full-length fringe dress was pure bohemian drama, featuring layers of textured fringe that flowed like waves on the runway. “What I liked most about this theme was how designers were juxtaposing fringe with leather and streamlined silhouettes. Everything felt high-end and sleek (instead of costumey, like we’ve seen in the past few years),” my sister says.

One theme my industry insider sis kept seeing over and over again? Classic utilitarian silhouettes with high-fashion details (a trend she’s dubbed ‘luxe utility’). Michael Kors’s collection was her favorite—specifically a neutral-toned set with a cropped bralette, delicate appliqué skirt and structured utility jacket. “Effortlessly cool, but still polished,” she noted. Simkhai elevated the trend with a white, long-line jacket paired with a coordinating mini skirt. “It’s breezy, but those sharp lines made it feel tailored and stripped-down.” Then, there was also Coach, who took a more rugged/industrial approach with a distressed leather skirt and matching bomber jacket, grounded by sharp point-toe pumps. “This show was for the ‘edgy girl’—someone who wants her wardrobe to feel like Kim Possible was popped into Dumbo.” Altogether, she said, “You take a utilitarian statement piece and contrast it with feminine details… definitely more high-end than Gen Z’s obsession with Y2K.”

Double belts were everywhere on the runway this season, adding structure and form to even the simplest looks. At the Area show, thick metallic chains were layered over sleek leather, giving off a tough, industrial vibe. “I’d try pairing a statement belt like this with something simple, like a plain black dress or tailored trousers. It’ll make the whole look feel instantly cooler without being too much,” Jilly suggests. Brandon Maxwell also took a more refined approach, layering a metallic belt over a flowing black gown. “Belts like these are great for balancing out softer silhouettes. If you have a flowy dress or a looser outfit, cinch it with a structured double to give it shape.” Yet, my favorite take on the trend was Ralph Lauren’s, which brought the look into more casual territory with double leather belts styled over slouchy, high-waist pants. “So easy to replicate; layer a couple of slim belts over your favorite jeans or trousers and you’re good to go.” 

Organza—a silk fabric that's light, ethereal and effortlessly elegant—was big on the runway this year. At Khaite, organza came alive in a dramatic white gown, playing with opacity and transparency, and finishing with a sheer overlay to add movement and drama. “What I loved about this piece was how it flowed—it’s a showstopper, but the glossy top makes it riskier,” Jilly says. Grace Ling also redefined power dressing with her take on organza, layering a translucent blazer over a sleek suit. The sheer fabric created another unexpected contrast, softening the typically strong, tailored silhouette. “Again, you have another designer who’s offsetting organza with less delicate textures.” This idea was brought home at Brandon Maxwell’s show, which embraced minimalism with a sleek navy two-piece set featuring organza detailing. The look felt architectural yet ethereal, with sheer elements that flowed strategically. "It’s a perfect balance of soft and sculpted," Jilly notes.

Oversize oxblood bags made a bold statement this season, proving that accessories can pack just as much punch as the clothes themselves. Tibi showcased a sleek oversize tote in deep oxblood, adding minimalist sophistication to neutral, flowing garments. “This is your go-to bag for everyday use, especially if you commute to work with a laptop. It pairs well with neutrals or denim—oxblood is just one of those shades that look good with everything,” says Jilly. Tory Burch offered a more sculptural take with a structured half-moon design. “If you’re someone who likes to keep your outfit minimal, let a bag like this do the talking. Pair it with jeans and a tee, and suddenly, it’ll feel like you’ve put in way more effort.” The star of the show, however, was Coach’s slouchy, oversize dumpling pouch, which Jilly dubs the perfect ‘off-duty’ bag: “It’s roomy enough for your essentials, and the color adds sophistication to even the most casual outfits. I see this being a weekend staple.”