One of the world’s premier and most anticipated fashion weeks, NYFW kicks off on Friday, September 9. Like those of years past, the 2022 edition is set to showcase some of the biggest names in fashion, as well as several emerging designers who are making a name for themselves on this global stage.
This year’s shows will take place live, with several designers offering digital shows and panels for fashion lovers to watch from the comfort of home.
While there are over 100 talented designers—ranging from household names to up-and-comers—set to send their looks down the runway this year, here are a few whose creativity and brand missions have made a significant impact on the industry in a relatively short period of time.
You’ve seen the bags, you’ve heard Beyonce sing about them, and chances are you’ve made it onto at least one waiting list; regardless, it’s clear Telfar’s popularity is not likely to die down anytime soon. Helmed by Black, queer, Brooklyn-born designer Telfar Clemons, the brand’s mission of making luxury fashion accessible “for everyone” has struck a chord with young adult consumers. The 100% unisex brand is famous for its sleek, modern shopping bags and accessories but also features a full range of ready-to-wear apparel. This year’s NYFW Telfar show is easily one of the most anticipated of the season, with many wondering what Clemens will unveil next.
Brandon Maxwell rose to prominence as an assistant to Nicola Formichetti, a role that would soon catapult him to Lady Gaga’s official style director. Together, he and Gaga have created some of fashion’s most memorable red carpet moments—from her multi-costume “camp” reveal at the Met Gala to her “A Star is Born” Oscars look.
Since starting his own brand, Maxwell’s modern yet sophisticated creations have graced the likes of Michelle Obama, Jane Fonda, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lawrence, and Viola Davis, to name a few. His new Spring collection showcases retro psychedelic patterns and shapes.
Maryam Nassir Zadeh, an emerging Iranian designer, started her label with the mission of elevating casual dress and streetwear to high fashion. Her designs are largely vintage inspired, offering creative takes on classic silhouettes and cuts while prioritizing size inclusivity. Her recent menswear collection, for instance, emphasizes oversized shirts and sweater vests that are reminiscent of 80’s style.
You can browse her creations at the Maryam Nassir Zadeh boutique on the Lower East Side.
KHIRY is an Afrofuturist luxury jewelry brand that draws inspiration from the African diaspora. Its mission is to make statements about Black life and culture through jewelry. From polished gold hoops to tiger eye-embellished rings, the bold designs of the fashion house have quickly garnered a loyal following, both among consumers and within the fashion community.
Celebrities have taken a liking to KHIRY as well, including Chloe Bailey, Mindy Kaling, and Solange Knowles.
Founded by a mother-daughter duo and featured in this year’s NYFW Black in Fashion Council Discovery Showroom, Dur Doux is a luxury brand rooted in the concept of wearability and accessibility.
The brand’s lavish and avant garde designs include bright colors and prints that underscore the prominent influence the Black community has and continues to have on the world of modern fashion.