FW18 New York: AUDRA, Alice + Olivia, Noon by Noor, and More

The lively spirit of designer Stacy Bendet colorfully continued in Alice + Olivia’s new collection. In order to change the future, Bendet recalls that we must reflect on the past, and we saw that in her fall/winter 2018 presentation—set in AO University. With varying rooms dedicated to the university (The Rainbow Library, The American Revolution Room, The Bill of Rights Room, Rococo Rock n’ Roll Room, The Education Garden, and the Chinoiserie Black and Gold Rooms), corresponding looks caught our attention with grit and flare, and all in the name of the designer’s re-created Women’s Bill of Rights. Leather, studs, and fringe made bold statements on matching sets, rainbow sequins stripes made up slim pants, and metallic plaid and leopard prints were all the feministic fashion rage.

Todd Snyder is no stranger to style, and this season, he proves his elevated dedication to the sophisticated-casual nature of dressing. Our attention was seized by an effortless juxtaposition of old-school meets new-school, with an emphasis on materials. Sherpa fleece, modern mohair, acid washed denim, and various sweaters were seen playing with the silhouettes of bad boys and good boys. Sack suits became the new uniform, loose hoodies and sweats were seen shaking up the attitude, and cardigans were a nod to relaxed East Coast prep. A new Chelsea boot made an appearance, as well, just below rolled pants. The show, located at Pier 59 Studios, was complemented by a live trumpet performance by Grammy award-winning musician and songwriter Keyon Harrold.

Julianna Bass presented an inspiring collection for the “deco absurdist,” centered around positive forces within ourselves. Unapologetic and free, the honesty we have within ourselves transcends our relationships with others, and that is what the designer was primarily inspired by for this season. In the new collection, we saw an array of vibrant colors mixed among a primary print—bold deco geometry made in collaboration with Berlin-based artist Peer Kriesel.

Gaining inspiration from Bahrain’s starry night sky, Noon by Noor designers Shaikha Noor Rashid Al Khalifa and Shaikha Haya Mohamed Al Khalifa put forth a collection full of fluid silhouettes, gold-accented fabrics, and feather embroidery referencing the Bulbul—the national bird. The new offerings were expressive of a balance between strength and softness, business and pleasure. We saw a modern suit, trousers, tops, and coats, and an array of dresses that ranged from slips to gowns—all striking with color and depth.

Audra Noyes, the owner and creative director of AUDRA, has an attention to detail and a love for modest sensuality that is both whimsical and refreshing. In her new collection, we saw that heightened through playful shirting, a mix of material, tailoring, and rich paisley prints. The mature collection had colors easy on the eyes, like deep blue, gold, and cream, with fun colors like magenta appearing on long coats and in stripes on shirts. The designer’s love for pleating, ruffles, and precise cuts stood out in unique shoulder detailing, delicate drapery on sleeveless tops, and below-the-knee, mommy-and-me dresses.