New York Fashion Week hit the runways earlier this month, and let me tell you – the beauty and fashion narratives this season are deliciously contradictory. From unconventional hair statements to avant-garde makeup techniques, discover how designers and beauty artists are redefining style for the upcoming season.
1. The Anti-Perfect Hair Movement Takes NYFW by Storm
Forget everything you know about "good hair days." This season’s NYFW runways are championing what Joey George at Diotima calls "fallen roller realness" – think that perfectly imperfect moment when your curlers droop and your scarf slips off at night. At Coach, models rocked unapologetic locs, while Prabal Gurung turned humidity from frizz enemy to style ally. The message? Your hair's natural rebellion is now your biggest style asset.
2. Green Makeup: The Rise of Swamp Queen Beauty
Green makeup emerged as NYFW's breakthrough beauty trend, transcending traditional forest fairy aesthetics. Christopher John Rogers revolutionized the look with "galactic lips" in olive tones, while Collina Strada's models showcased acid green inner-eye streaks that channeled alien queen vibes rather than woodland nymph aesthetics. It's not conventionally pretty – and that's exactly what makes it revolutionary.
3. Power Suits Reimagined for FW25
The '80s Gekko-style suit makes its NYFW comeback with a modern twist that would make Gordon choke on his champagne. Bevza and Calvin Klein presented oversized shoulders and cinched waists, pairing them with deliberately disheveled hair and minimal makeup. This new take on power dressing speaks to those who want to look powerful enough to break the rules.
4. Geometric Lip Designs: The New Frontier in Makeup
Pat McGrath's architectural approach to lips at Marc Jacobs redefined beauty standards at NYFW. Models wore innovative velvet-and-crystal circular lip designs, while Thom Browne's show introduced precise rectangular stripes covering only the center third of the lip. The result is a perfect clash between minimalism and maximalism.
5. Feathers: From Runway Statement to Beauty Revolution
Luar's powerful reclamation of "El Pato" transformed feathers into NYFW's most talked-about beauty accent. Crystal-studded feathered nails, dramatic lash embellishments, and feather-replaced bangs at Fforme proved that this trend goes beyond mere decoration – it's a statement of defiance with style.
6. Twisted Sister: The Evolution of Evening Wear
NYFW FW25 reimagined dress silhouettes through a wind-tunnel lens. Calvin Klein, Luar, and Collina Strada presented intentionally awkward draping that makes conventional evening wear look outdated. This innovative approach to design creates pieces that defy fast-fashion replication.
7. '80s Underground Beauty Revival
While '90s nostalgia dominated recent seasons, NYFW FW25 drew inspiration from '80s club culture. Makeup artist Romero Jennings at Kim Shui showcased aggressive smoky eyes and intentionally harsh lines – makeup that improves as the night progresses.
8. Argyle Reinvented for FW25
Khaite and Thom Browne transformed traditional argyle into statement pieces at NYFW. These reimagined preppy patterns feature acid-bright colors and distorted proportions, paired unexpectedly with leather and lace for a fresh take on country club style.
9. The New Layering Rules for Fall 2025
NYFW designers including Collina Strada, Diotima, and Coach broke conventional layering rules. Party dresses appeared over pants, under coats, and mixed with sportswear, creating a sophisticated yet experimental approach to formal wear.
10. Volume and Architectural Shapes Define FW25
Brandon Maxwell's cylindrical skirts and Tory Burch's architectural designs marked NYFW's departure from body-con silhouettes. This trend celebrates negative space and dramatic proportions, turning personal space into a fashion statement.
Our Takeaways
This season’s NYFW proves that beauty and fashion have moved beyond perfection to embrace intentionality. Whether you're sporting deliberately undone hair or layering evening wear over athletic pieces, the key lies in purposeful styling. In Fall/Winter 2025, the only true fashion faux pas is playing it safe.
Looking to incorporate these NYFW trends into your wardrobe? Start with one statement piece and build from there. Remember, confidence is the ultimate accessory for any trend you choose to embrace.
