NY Fashion Week: Carolina Herrera's Precision, Bach Mai's Vibrancy , Boucheron's Sparkle
C arolina Herrera presents its new Spring 2025 collection at New York Fashion Week, where Shonda Rhimes, Michelle Monaghan, Chloe Fineman, and Camila Alves McConaughey all walked for the brand, celebrating 40 years of continuance in elegance born with the label in 1981. Creative director Wes Gordon, who was appointed in 2018, attempted precision and balance in this collection with a refined take on classic femininity.
Gordon described the collection as a study in “one perfect detail,” blending architectural silhouettes with a subtle use of color. The show began with a monochromatic palette, then exploded into vivid shades of pink, blue, yellow, and red. Standout pieces included a textured silk gazar blouse paired with Bermuda shorts, and a stunning shocking pink tulle gown that would bring glamour to the Emmys. The soundtrack featured an album by Janet Jackson, celebrating a strong, confident woman.
Must-see exhibitions include Boucheron at Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, an inspiring combination of historical and contemporary pieces. As the brand opens its first New York boutique, the exhibit showcases archival jewels, such as an Art Nouveau brooch worn by Elizabeth Taylor and a bracelet Edward VII purchased for Wallis Simpson. The modernist "Or Bleu" collection, inspired by Icelandic water, reflects Claire Choisne's creative vision, while the exemplary Question Mark necklace, introduced in 1879, solidifies Boucheron’s reputation for innovation.
The explosion of color was beautifully presented in Bach Mai’s “Invincible Summer” collection at NYFW by Chelsea Factory, a tribute to his late father and a celebration of bright hues. With a background in Paris haute couture, Mai deliberately avoided using black, embracing optimism and light. The show, a glamorous display of structured, bold-colored dresses, was inspired by Cecil Beaton’s photographs of Charles James’ gowns. A breathtaking 47-carat yellow diamond necklace from Leviev Group USA completed the collection’s elegant designs. Influences from Vice President Kamala Harris and pop star Charli XCX brought resilience and hope into the collection.
