New York Fashion Week AW21: The top trends to note

Advance notice

Image: IMaxtree

Full cream

From left to right: Ulla Johnson, Bevza, and Markarian

When it comes to shades this season, the pale yellow hue is the cream of the crop, much to the minimalists' delight. That said, the looks were anything but plain, as chunky big knits, fringed details, and ultra-feminine silhouettes amped things up.

The key to our hearts

From left to right: Bevza, Zimmermann, and Sandy Liang

The autumn/winter season may be a time to layer up, but designers are all for showing some skin with cutouts—specifically, peekaboo keyholes that let you reveal a hint of your décolletage.

Regency rules

From left to right: Alice + Olivia, Ulla Johnson, and Prabal Gurung

The Bridgerton effect is here to stay. Designers are hopping on the regencycore trendwagon by sending down retro-inspired looks that are fit for a lady. Cue the gloves, the puffy sleeves, the ruffles, and the corsets.

A for androgynous

From left to right: Adam Lippes, Proenza Schouler, and 3.1 Phillip Lim

Pantsuits, as usual, are in abundance this season, but instead of a tailored and tapered silhouette, designers went down the androgynous route with menswear-inspired shapes that exude that nonchalant flair.

Get set

From left to right: Staud, Claudia Li, and Tanya Taylor

Our lazy-day favourite made a strong impression this season, as an array of brands introduced co-ords that will always make you look put together (no pun intended) at any time and for any occasion. One of each, please.

Real women wear capes

From left to right: Bibhu Mohapatra, Gabriela Hearst, and Proenza Schouler

Yes, you heard that right. Designers proved that the best way to layer up for AW21 is by throwing on a cape. The outerwear can be found in different lengths and silhouettes this round, but they all have one thing in common: they bring the drama.

Wild wild vest

From left to right: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Collina Strada, and Jason Wu

Sweater vests that are trending right now continue to make a splash on the NYFW runways. From colourful geometric print to minimal basics, the versatility of the piece is apparent. While jeans are fail-proof, layering it over a flowy midi skirt (as seen above) gives it that extra allure.