NYFW FW19: Claudia Li, Dennis Basso, L’Agence

A minimalistic show space with a white backdrop allowed for Claudia Li’s modern designs to take the spotlight during its Fall/Winter 2019 runway presentation this week. Following the brand’s previous show, where a cast of all Asian models caught the attention of women worldwide, this year’s collection served as an unapologetic celebration, revisiting favorites in a bold, sophisticated fashion. Styles were playful but smart, as the Claudia Li wearer is confident and sure of her choices, while remaining dressed comfortably for the weather. Loose, simple cuts were imagined in bright prints, and decked in details like metallic-sheened fabrics, furry trims, and intricate ties. Some of our favorite looks included the denim-on-denim pairing with the iridescent pink top and matching furry bag, and the long black pea coat with the tasseled fringe.

A fiery sunset of golden hues, pinks, purples, and warm earthy tones ensured that the wearer of Dennis Basso’s Fall/Winter 2019 collection will be anything but drab in the gloomy weather of the upcoming season. Staples of the collection, fur and leopard print were seen trimming jackets, topping hats, and making up entire garments, while understated florals were imagined in sequins, prints, beading, and appliques. Even in the most laidback looks, an elevated feel was presented with the addition of a sleek up-do and heeled boots or shoes. We loved the nude bustier dress with the feather detailed skirt, the leopard print coat with the matching heeled boots, and the white fur jacket with the wide zippered sleeves paired with black pants and a matching hat.

Carefully deconstructing the many styles and influences of the state of California, L’Agence presented its Fall/Winter 2019 collection inside of Industria Studios, where the brand created a West Coast terrain of flora and greenery. Highlighting a sense of relaxed femininity, this season’s designs were meant to dress the woman with an international lifestyle, whose day-to-day activities could range anywhere from working at home, walking the red carpet, or off-duty visiting the Amalfi Coast. Luxury denim (a staple of West Coast DNA) was seen in fitted jeans, wide-legged pants, jackets, and even a few unexpected variations, like a set of all-over cheetah print pieces. Updated versions of the traditional horseback riding uniform took on the form of looks like khakis paired with a silky overcoat and a block-heeled take on a riding boot, as well as a matching fringed jacket and pants set, complemented with a cowboy style hat. Highlights included the golden herringbone blazer worn with a simple white turtleneck and bootcut jeans, and the black long-sleeved button-down dress belted at the waist.