Welcome to the glamorous world of fashion as we delve into the exhilarating atmosphere of the February 2024 Fashion Week, where creativity meets luxury in an unprecedented showcase of style. This year, the spotlight shines brightly on the illustrious collaboration with renowned luxury stylist Lisa Chambers, whose visionary touch promises to redefine sartorial elegance and push the boundaries of haute couture. As fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders gather in anticipation, the runway awaits unveiling a mesmerizing fusion of innovation and sophistication, setting the stage for a memorable extravaganza that celebrates the essence of chic refinement and timeless allure. Get ready to immerse yourself in a captivating journey through the latest trends and mesmerizing designs that embody the epitome of elegance and glamour.
Can you share with us some of the standout trends you’ve observed during Fashion Week Feb 2024?
Wearability was an essential component in all the runway collections. There were very few moments of looking at an outfit or dress and saying, where in the world would I go in that? Designers didn’t shy away from furs, leathers, and other natural fibers as they did in years past, although I wouldn’t say it was a ‘Mob wife’ or overdone aesthetic.
Many of the shows had women in lower-heeled shoes than in previous seasons, and there were virtually no platforms until the Thom Browne finale. Minimalism was minimal, and maximalism is back! Fashion is fun again. You can always be in style wearing cream and beige, but bold colors and prints were everywhere. Tweeds are still on trend for Fall/Winter 2024/25.
Which fashion designers or brands did you find particularly innovative or exciting to work with during Fashion Week Feb 2024, and why?
Thom Browne’s show concluded the week, and he is more renowned for his men’s collections than women’s. The theatrical and ethereal show highlighted a stunning women’s collection. I loved the new twists on embellished tweeds, gorgeous drapey outerwear, and PVC shoes and accessories. The suits, skirts, and jackets were wearable, not just for the next Thom Browne show but for an important meeting or a fashionable lunch with friends. I hope to see more of the women’s collection in upcoming seasons. I recently found out that Thom Browne and Johnson Hartig, creative director and founder of Libertine, were former roommates before Thom Browne began designing menswear. Looking closely at the styles, it’s clear they are long-time friends!
I also loved the Gabriela Hearst collection. She uses beautiful open-weave wool, leather, and shearling for slim maxi dresses, and her evening wear is breathtaking. Fabric movement in all her pieces just felt so feminine. The show took place on a snow day (Tuesday, February 13) in Brooklyn, which didn’t keep anyone away. The show was packed, and the standing ovation verified that Gabriela Hearst mastered her craft. Her collection moved me because her love for her work shone through in the pieces.
I am looking forward to a showroom ‘resee’ to touch and see the garments up close. I particularly loved three pieces: a chocolate brown leather strapless cocktail dress, a cream wool/cashmere open weave knit maxi dress, and a silk and crepe dress that could easily work from day into evening, depending on the jacket it’s paired with.
Tory Burch also surprised on Monday night to mark the 20th anniversary of the brand. Rich textures, tonal ensembles, and pops of color dominated her runway. The brand has not been on my go-to list, but for my clients, modern, elegant, and sophisticated, there’s something for everyone. Sparkle, mixing textures, colors, and shine added a cool factor to the designer’s traditionally minimalist collection.
What advice would you give to aspiring stylists who aspire to work in the fast-paced environment of Fashion Week?
Aspiring stylists, don’t be shy about asking your favorite brands for tickets and dress to impress. Be thoughtful about your outfit choices because this is your time to shine. Hundreds of photographers are outside the shows; you never know where and when someone may photograph you. Photographers don’t just look for celebrities.
Stay within the vibe of the designer whose show you are attending. For instance, if you are attending a Carolina Herrera show, even at 10:00 am, it is midnight somewhere. You can’t go wrong in elegant cocktail or evening attire. If you attend an AREA show, opt for metallics, stones, and anything shiny!
The shows are a great way to connect with people. Although the fashion and people may seem intimidating, everyone in attendance shares a love for fashion. Step outside your comfort zone and introduce yourself to new people. Use this time to discuss opportunities to attend future shows and styling guidance.
Another tip is to join Vogue Club and sign onto their Discord channel. As a generous community, you never know when you might be invited to a show or event. Check out Eventbrite for aspiring and new designers who have invested time and money into their shows and are looking for an audience. You can also watch the shows on live stream here, so if you can’t secure an in-person spot, you can see the fashions in real time.
Looking back at Fashion Week Feb 2024, what were some of the most memorable moments or highlights from your perspective as a stylist?
I love being surprised by freshness and innovation, which is exceptionally challenging for creative directors, season after season. I loved seeing Gabriela Hearst receive a standing ovation for her outstanding collection after parting ways as creative director for Chloe (September 2023 was her last show during Paris Fashion Week) and focusing solely on her brand. Taking that initiative and making that decision could not have been easy, and the beauty in her collection showed her dedication.
I love introducing people, especially my husband, to fashion shows. Thom Browne’s show was his first fashion show ever. Carrie Coon, star of “The Gilded Age,” narrated Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Raven” as the soundtrack, so it was as entertaining as a production as it was about fashion. He loves horror stories and the macabre of it all.
How do you transition what you see on the runway into your client’s or your own closet?
Each brand has a fit, price point, and vibe that works for different clients. I wouldn’t suggest an AREA piece for someone who rarely goes out or is a minimalist because the pieces are sexy, skin-baring, and sparkle in the evening. For someone looking for understated elegance in the day or evening, Proenza Schouler is a fabulous go-to brand for my clients, and Proenza Schouler White Label is a more affordable alternative to the leading brand with a great look and fit. When considering which pieces would work well for my clients, I am conscious of the budget.
