NYFW FW2020: L’Agence, Concept Korea, and Todd Snyder

On a minimal baby blue runway at Spring Studios in New York, Concept Korea presented its 10^th anniversary show. The fashion collective is known for showcasing Korean designers, and its recent show was no different—highlighting lines from three south Korean labels: LIE, Leyii, and IISE. LIE’s Fall/Winter 2020 collection pulled on inspiration from London during the 1960s. Creative Director Chung Chung Lee’s dynamic looks were made of sculptural shapes and feminine styling, reminiscent of London’s post-industrial architecture. Special for the collection, as well, were a line of handbags in collaboration with FIXXAT. Leyii centered in on yoga to combine activewear and mindfulness for a collection focused on balance. Organic silhouettes and figure-flattering designs were seen on nearly every model. IISE focused on the core principals of its DNA, and that of the pillars of Korean architecture and design—symmetry, balance, and proportion. With layers and panels, and an array of symmetrical pieces, each loo was highlighted with a unique mixture of fabrics and hardware.

At Pier 59 in New York, Todd Snyder presented its Fall/Winter 2020 collection entitled “From Away.” Walking in, guests were treated to Allagash beer, “From Away” koozies, and whoopie pies from Wicked Whoopie. At first, we questioned the title of the show and the takeaway goodies—all created in Maine. But when we sat down and read Snyder’s collection notes, we got it. Special for the presentation was a 40-piece capsule line presented in collaboration with American heritage brand L.L. Bean, based in Maine. As the lights dimmed, by way of a fashion show in New York City, we were immediately transported to the great outdoors. From the beginning we saw Todd Snyder staples ground the collection, like tailored suits and sweaters. But atop or underneath were layers and details from L.L. Bean that popped. Nylon down puffer vests, tweed sack jackets, and microfiber duck camouflage prints gave off an urban jungle feel, paired with a new tote—the bespoke oil cloth Boot and Boat L.L. Bean tote with a leather bottom. Chamois shirts and hand-knit Cowichan logo sweaters were seen mixed between utilitarian pieces, like a new around-the-neck dual-pouch accessory. Since showing in 2012, the new collection also welcomed for the very first time women in his show. Four females walked the runway in Todd Snyder looks—a nod to the girls that rightly borrow their guy’s sweaters in the pine tree state, the empire state, or elsewhere. “As a Midwesterner, I am inspired by Maine’s raw natural beauty, from the mountains and forests to the lakes and rivers to the rocky Atlantic coastline,” said Snyder. “Fall 2020 is all about suiting up for adventure—sartorial or otherwise.”