New York Fashion Week 2025: Big Names, Fresh Faces, and a Push for Change
New York Fashion Week (NYFW) kicks off on September 11, featuring established labels like Coach, Michael Kors, and Calvin Klein, alongside rising designers bringing fresh energy to the runway.
However, some top designers are holding shows outside the official calendar. Marc Jacobs, owned by LVMH, showcased his Fall 2025 collection in July at the New York Public Library, while Ralph Lauren will host a private event on September 10. Their absence raises questions about NYFW’s cohesion and global appeal.
Nicole Phelps, global director of Vogue Runway and Vogue Business, noted: “When big anchor designers leave, fewer visitors from out of town attend, which impacts the city’s fashion scene.”
To address these challenges, the fashion platform KFN, in partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), is leading a revitalization effort. Plans include:
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A network of 10 venues within a 15-minute radius, offered free for designers.
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Shared spaces for smaller shows or presentations to help reduce costs.
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A potential single September season instead of separate February and September events (pending CFDA confirmation).
NYFW continues to adapt amid industry shifts, including consumer spending changes and leadership transitions at major fashion houses. Despite the challenges, over 60 brands will debut their new collections this season, keeping New York at the forefront of global fashion.
