Spring/Summer 25 Men’s Day during NYFW did not disappoint this year. Featuring some new and familiar designers there was plenty to be inspired by. See what we thought after the jump.
Supima celebrated its 17th annual Design Competition by spotlighting some of the nation’s top fashion graduates during a cocktail event in Manhattan on July 11.
Miami, FL – Stitch Lab’s summer pop-up kicked off in style on July 11th, at the Aventura Mall. The event was a vibrant, sun-soaked gathering where Miami VIPs, designers, stylists, and top influencers mingled to celebrate the best of Latin American fashion.
“It’s the Met Gala for vintage,” exclaims designer and vintage connoisseur Cassidy Donaho. Her statement is spot on, but the unparalleled essence the Manhattan Vintage Show’s magic? Glamorous, historic, and one-of-a-kind fashions are begging to be taken home to your eager closet. It’s all the romance of nostalgia without the yearning, revitalizing pre-loved pieces with a new and continuing life.
Jazzmint Dash models IMJM Vintage Couture’s Christian Lacroix Brooch
Featuring 90+ dealers of vintage, upcycled, and designer fashions, the Manhattan Vintage Show is a sensory spectacle of carefully curated beauty. I was lucky enough to attend the show for the second time accompanied by my dear friend Jazzmint Dash. After we enjoyed an impromptu breakfast of her homemade savory waffles, we entered the venue and were generously greeted with gift bags, two drink tickets, and $150 in market bucks each to spend as we wished. As two drag performers with modest day jobs to keep our lights on, we were overjoyed, completely surprised, and knew we had to devise a game plan for how best to spend our unexpected cash.
Before we could even begin our shopping spree, the fabulous show photographer Gigi Stoll whisked us back into the street for an improvised photoshoot, which was a delight. Jazz and I have both lived in the city for a decade, earning our “honorary New Yorker badge,” and have become well accustomed to both the brouhaha and banality that long-term NYC living brings. However, this warm welcome felt like one of those special moments that had enticed us to the city in the first place. Once we got the shot, narrowly avoiding certain death by yellow cab, we burst into the Manhattan Vintage Show’s world of color, texture, detail, and sparkling, smiling faces.
Lexie and I pose for a photo at her fabulous booth
Shop Extraordinary Enterprises’ acquisition has elevated the 20-year-old showcase, which now features onsite tailoring from Alternew, plentiful private and group fitting rooms, and refreshments courtesy of Elevate Cater NYC, yet the heart and soul of the event blessedly remains unchanged. Jazz and I marvel at the scale and spectacle within each uniquely styled booth, each one containing special squeal-worthy pieces. We decided we needed to go macro before micro and traverse all 90+ dealers before narrowing our focus and delving into the booths that called to us.
This butterfly dreamy dress was love at first sight for Jazzmint
The conversation and connections made at The Manhattan Vintage Show are as excellent as the offerings. We met Cassidy Donaho near the end of the third day and she likened this quadrennial event to a family reunion. Jazz and I heartily agreed. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in the easy and heartfelt atmosphere. Every seller is so clearly passionate about their collection and their lifelong commitment to preserving and celebrating vintage is infectious. This perennial compassion transforms their selection into a direct and moving reflection of their perspective and taste, cultivating an utterly singular and exhilarating shopping experience. Jazz and I were admittedly overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the event, but we couldn’t help feeling subconsciously summoned into the booths that mirrored our sensibilities.
Exquisite Christian Lacroix brooches featured at IMJM Vintage Couture
Some favorite dealers include IMJM Vintage Couture which immediately intoxicated us with showstopping Christian LaCroix brooches amongst their spectacular assortment of jewelry. Another standout was Lexie Butterfly Vintage, who perfectly matched her playful collection with her oversized clown shoes and infectious personality. One of her missions is to bring inclusivity to vintage shopping, which is all too often inaccessible due to being saturated with small sizes. She upcycles completely original pieces geared to plus-size customers by combining vintage fabrics and singular pieces. This creativity and thoughtfulness highlight the exciting and sustainable hybridization that the Manhattan Vintage Show values.
Boston-based Lexie of Lexie Butterfly Vintage created a whimsical paradise at the Manhattan Vintage Show
Texas-based designer Mr. Naggers has a similar approach. He creates streetwear that stands out by Frankenstein-ing several sports jerseys and denim pieces into collaged tops or pants. Each piece was more exciting than the last, and I couldn’t help but fall in love and wish I had a trust fund. I spotted a genderbending top sent from beyond my wildest dreams: a yellow soccer jersey with a purple lace lingerie bodysuit stitched to the front, its ribbon straps draping down the back, and finished with a minty ruffle that trailed up the front and down the back to frame the piece. And once I discovered that it fit me perfectly, it was over. Here’s a look at the shirt I adopted and other standouts from his collection:
Mr. Naggers strikes a beautiful balance with his coquettish and tough collars
Showstopping pants crafted by Mr. Naggers out of old sports jerseys
Jazz and I still had some cash to burn and Oubliette Vintage’s jewelry came to our aid. It was the Minneapolis-based dealer’s first time showing at the Manhattan Vintage Show and we were struck by such a unique assortment of brutalist and abstract rings. I laid eyes on a 1920s/1930s ring featuring a large sterling orb encased by abstract silver vines and it was love at first sight. Oubliette’s owner, Ian, told me this ring was also functional and was designed to scoop up a small bit of solid perfume and apply directly on one’s neck. I was sold! Ian surprised Jazz with a silver Pegasus ring after noticing her unicorn ring, which she never leaves home without, and after careful consideration, Jazz realized it was too good to pass up.
Brklyn Bish features a vast array of funky and fun charms that together make a personalized charm bracelet
I stopped in my tracks once I spotted the “make your own Italian Charm Bracelet” station at Brklyn Bish’s booth. My Mother gave me an Italian charm bracelet when I was young and gifted me a new charm each year as I grew up. It was such a meaningful gift that evolved with me as I came into my personhood and seeing all the charms electrified me. I still have my charm bracelet and recently lamented to a friend that because I’d outgrown it, it was doomed to sit in my jewelry box, unworn, watching me grow older and further from the kid I was when I last wore it. After splurging on my new shirt and ring, my market bucks were spent, but there was no question that I was going to spend a bit of my own money to bring my childhood bracelet back to life.
This booth exemplified the magic of the Manhattan Vintage Show and vintage fashion for me. I was so overcome with emotion and possibility and new gratitude to my loving Mother for such a special, enduring gift. And yes, I did happen upon this booth right after trading my drink ticket in for whiskey ginger at roughly 2:48 pm on a Sunday, but nevertheless! As I contemplated which charms were best to preserve and enhance a cherished childhood keepsake, I found myself simultaneously jettisoned back in time and watching a new future materialize before me.
Browsing racks of ineffable vintage treasures will never get old. It illuminates a shared cultural history and the expert handiwork of days gone by, of course, but it forces nostalgia into the present in an undeniable way. A previous life honored but expanded upon and given a new future. Manhattan Vintage Show’s tagline says it best: “The future of fashion is vintage” and I look forward to making new memories and remembering forgotten ones in the racks at the next show in October.
My childhood charm bracelet laid out above the new charms awaiting their placement
When it comes to Dr. Christina Rahm, Los Angeles Fashion Week is not only an event for fashion designers to debut their most recent fashion collections on the runway. As a versatile professional with expertise as a doctor, psychologist, scientist, humanitarian, and entrepreneur, her company Merci Dupre Clotheirs reveals another side to her.
On Oct. 19. at The Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills is where the audience of creatives met Merci Dupre Clotheirs’ latest collection named ‘Enviremware’. The ‘Enviremware’ product line features exclusive technology, incorporating patented nano-biotech formulas intricately integrated into the fabric. This innovation creates a highly effective shield designed to guard against EMF radiation, heavy metals, viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi. Additionally, it helps prevent exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic particles associated with 5G.
The presentation, jointly organized by Elysian, ROOT, and DRC Ventures, had its origins in a podcast. Dr. Rahm serves as the host of “Under The Red Chandelier,” where she engages in discussions with creative leaders in the realms of fashion, creativity, and the arts. Inspired by these extensive dialogues, her vision expanded into the creation of a fashion brand. This brand goes beyond mere style, aiming to empower women with knowledge about safeguarding their skin against toxins, bacteria, pollution, and UV rays.
As the models strolled down the runway, the audience couldn’t help but turn their heads, capturing the essence of these models and the way designers artfully adorned their clothing. Each ensemble exuded a distinct aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the late 80s with elements such as up-cycled denim pieces, transparent tulle designs, and distressed jeans coupled with jackets and crop tops. Additionally, the collection featured sheer blouses paired with flowing skirts that gracefully trailed the runway, as well as earth-toned dresses that immediately captivated the audience’s gaze. This new collection isn’t confined to a single aesthetic; rather, it offers a plethora of luxurious choices that embody a state of beauty and grace knowing that this brand endorses eco-friendliness.
Merci Dupre is an ardent advocate for the idea that the fashion industry bears a significant responsibility toward our environment. With an unwavering commitment to this cause, they are fervently dedicated to translating this vision into reality through the creation of sustainable clothing solutions. Concurrently, Dr. Rahm, who envisions a harmonious fusion of science and fashion, is embarking on a transformative journey to introduce her groundbreaking Super Skin Coating to the broader world of fashion. This revolutionary endeavor embodies a profound message that extends beyond the realm of attire.
“I want to say this. I am a scientist that has multiple doctorate degrees, I have four children, I’ve traveled to 88 countries and I stand for woman empowerment, but more than that, I stand for all of this,” said Merci Dupre Clothiers founder Dr. Rham.
This mission goes beyond a mere plea for safeguarding our planet from the dangers of environmental toxins; it stands as an imperative to shield our very bodies from these harmful elements. Each and every piece in the collection is painstakingly created through a thoughtful blend of resources including: deadstock, upcycled materials, and sustainable fabrics. In this joint effort, both Merci Dupre and Dr. Rahm aspire to convey a narrative that possesses multiple layers of significance. Their end goal is always sustainability within the fashion industry while also avidly advocating for the well-being of the Earth. You can stay updated with the future of the brand on Instagram here.
We had the chance hear Jérôme LaMaar talk about his experiences in the world of sustainability, work with DIAGEO as part of the brand’s Society 2030 initiative, as well as dance to the grooves of queer icon Kevin Aviance.
Five designers brought a crowd to the 69th floor of the World Trade Center for the Nolcha Show’s S/S 2023 NYFW Runway Show held on September 13.The brands included Mauricio Alpizar, The Tailory, Maya Seyferth, Kaiane Designs and Høst & Vår.
While Mauricio Alpizar debuted an “Animal Kingdom” collection full of vibrant colors, bold prints and graphics; The Tailory remained grounded in chic and edgy, clinging to the simplicity and sophistication of black in both formal and street wear genderless pieces.
Giving a nod to her home base, Zürich, Maya Seyferth created an elegant line solely based on the flower of the Alps, aka Edelweiss. The Kaiane Designs team also drew inspiration from their home, Saudi Arabia, as they created loose and silky nude garments perfect for Middle Eastern desserts or date night. 
Host & Vår channeled seasonal transitions through their “Flowers From My Garden” collection; creating bright and floral pieces complete with shy frills and puffs for an extra girlish flare.
Although each collection conveys their own messages, they all share one important value: sustainability. Each brand remains dedicated to preserving the Earth while creating fashion. Be sure to keep an eye out for these trailblazers who are ensuring a guilt free shopping experience.
On December 3rd, luxury loungewear brand, ‘nuhü division’ opened their first 100% plastic-free retail store in SoHo, NYC.
On Tuesday, November 30th, Kendall Jenner’s award-winning tequila brand, 818 launched their Giving Tuesday Merch collection. 818 Tequila’s new merch not only makes some of the cutest gifts but has also partnered up with S.A.C.R.E.D for an amazing cause.
818 is continuing to honor its commitment to giving back to the planet and supporting sustainability efforts with its new limited-edition 818-holiday merch. Sales from 818 Tequlia’s new merch drop will help to continue their ongoing partnership with U.S.-based nonprofit organization S.A.C.R.E.D (Saving Agave for Culture, Recreation, Education, and Development). The S.A.C.R.E.D organization works to improve the lives of rural Mexican communities where heritage agave spirits are made. Earlier this year, following the launch of 818 Tequila, Jenner shared on The “Tonight Show”, the brand’s overall initiative “At our distillery, which I was just at the other day, we found a way to take the agave waste — the agave fibers and the water waste — and build this sustainable brick that we are actually donating back to the community of Jalisco.” S.A.C.R.E.D has played an important role in the 818 Brick Program, which utilizes raw, post-production agave fibers, water waste, and adobe soil to create bricks that are donated to build local infrastructure; which is such a genius way to give back. Following suit with 818 tequila’s sustainable tequila-making methods, 818’s new merch is also sustainably made with organic cotton, which uses 90% less water to produce than non-organic cotton. The 818 Giving Tuesday collection includes t-shirts, crew sweatshirts, sweatpants, and some adorable knit hats that make an awesome stocking stuffer. See the collection below and check them out at shop.drink818.com before they sell out!
On Sunday, August 8th, the creative director of DL1961, Sarah Ahmed, welcomed guests into her Hamptons home to preview their SS22 collection. Alongside denim fittings for DL1961’s incredible premium denim, Covey Skincare founders Emily DiDonato and Christina Garcia were present, offering skin-care consultations and samples of their new 3-step skincare routine.
Creative Director of DL1961 Sarah Ahmed (left) Co-Founder of Covey Emily DiDonato (right)
When sustainable fashion and clean skincare come together, you know I’m there. DL1961’s creative director, Sarah Ahmed, and Covey Skincare founders, Emily DiDonato and Christina Garcia, hosted an incredible family-friendly event with Denim fittings, skin-care consultations, and the cutest family-fun activities. Because beauty is my first love. The first stop on my agenda was to head over to Ahmed’s pool house, where Emily DiDonato and Christina Garcia held a small presentation on their new 3-step routine skincare line. When listening to supermodel Emily DiDonato discuss the new line, you could tell how much genuine care went into the research and development of Covey skincare. “Emily would literally send videos after trying the cleanser until we found the perfect formulation for the cleanser,” shared Christina. The Covey routine is 3- steps, easy peasy, effective, vegan, paraben-free, silicone-free, sulfate-free, and dye-free. So basically, it’s any clean beauty lover’s dream skincare line.
Next up was the preview of the DL1961 SS22 collection. The collection is STUNNING. When shopping for denim or any clothing really, I value comfort over everything, and DL1961 are some of the most comfortable and softest jeans I’ve tried. Out of the pieces I was able to preview, my favorite is the Emilie Straight Leg Overalls, I can’t wait to get my hands on them. After previewing the SS22 collection, it was time to try -on some DL1961 Denim and pick a pair to take home! When spring rolls around, I will make it my mission to get my hands on some of these pieces. Throughout the event, there were a few cute family-fun activities. The children in attendance painted in the “denim playground” attendance denim and artist Deanna First live-sketched guests. The event truly had such an at-home feeling that attendees like actress and singer Lea Michele and the cast of Netflix’s Unorthodox Life’ Julia Haart, and Robert Brotherton, mingled and joined in on the fun. Models Martha Hunt and Christina Peng were also in attendance, looking stunning as ever! Also in attendance were some of the most fun-spirited digital creators- JD, Jasmina Ahmed, and Antoinette Clarisa -I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. The day was truly a family affair, and I’m so excited to see what’s come from both brands.
Photo Credit: Sam Wallander
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