A name synonymous with glittering New York style, Michael Kors delivers a collection worthy of his legacy for AW23. As one of the final shows to conclude New York Fashion Week, the label threw an event with no shortage of glitz, glamour and ultra-seductive, women-empowering fashion.
As a prelude to the collection, Kors posted a teaser on Instagram just a few days prior, sharing how the show will be an ode to the designer’s original influencers—those who inspired his youth and career in the 1970s. Iconic women such as feminist Gloria Steinem, musical force Tina Turner, visionary Yoko Ono and the fabulous Jane Fonda were the names he specifically spotlighted.
The final day of New York Fashion Week AW23 arrived, and I was given the honour to be one of the few members of the press to meet the man himself backstage before his runway. While I only allocated two minutes, ever the gracious host, Kors took his time to greet me warmly, despite slightly running over his schedule.
We squeezed in a quick conversation, and I asked him to encapsulate his collection in five words. “Timeless, chic, big city, bohemia, and glamorous,” he declares without hesitation.
“Timeless, chic, big city, bohemia, and glamorous.”
I continue to ask him how the last three years—with the pandemic, and later, the endemic—have changed his perception of fashion and beauty. “As a human being and a designer, I’ve become more appreciative, and I don’t take things for granted. We’re excited to be able to see everyone from around the world and to travel again. But also to really concentrate on making clothes and accessories that I think are going to last a long time. Nothing temporary, nothing disposable,” he answers thoughtfully.
On the runway
Themed ‘Urban Bohemia’, the show paid homage to Kors’ forever icons, those who have left a lasting impression on him and his work. The collection oozed ‘70s glamour—experimental, varied, yet highly wearable for today’s modern woman. The ‘Hippie’ aesthetic can be seen through dramatically cut flared trousers; suede fringe detailing on coats, bags and all-over mini dresses; thick, hip-slung belts; snakeskin leather goods; leopard prints, knee-high boots; shimmering, Studio 54-esque evening dresses and deluxe, more-is-more faux fur coats.
Seductive and strong monochromatic moments permeated throughout the show. Warm and rich tones of chocolate, camel, chestnut, taupe and mocha were used all over. Fabrics were luxurious—cashmere, suede, knit and wool hugged every curve of the models just so.
Power suits were accessorised with oversized agate necklaces and cuffs. Other accessories worth mentioning include relaxed messenger bags— hung casually on the models’ shoulders—and streamlined bucket bags.
To elevate the mood, a live orchestra accompanied models, including Amber Valetta, Irina Shayk, Vittoria Ceretti and Liya Kebede, as they walked down the mirror-lined runway.
BURO spotlights the Michael Kors front row
Similar to the previous season, celebrity sightings were in abundance and among some of the A-listers in attendance included Gloria Steinem herself, Kate Hudson, Ellen Pompeo, Katie Holmes, Lea Michele, Kim Dahyun and more. Check out more memorable moments from my videos below!
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