Academy of Art University catwalk show report S/S 2016 for NYFW

Models, photographers, and fashion bloggers gathered by The Skylight at Moynihan Station, the new home of NYFW. Today’s fashion show marked the 10^th anniversary of the School of Fashion’s first show at New York Fashion Week. Eight students debuted six collections. While collections varied significantly, there was one element in common: it was as if all designers agreed to concentrate on minimalism and structured silhouettes. 

Max Lu and Jingci Jessie Wang opened the show presenting a collection of soft designs made of mostly leather of light and shimmery colors. The next designer was Ruone Yan, whose work was previously shown in San Francisco’s Graduation Fashion Show. Yan’s collection was a combination of layers of cotton, leather and jersey. 

Liz Li, along with Ruone Yan, presented her collaboration with Bom Kim. This collection was inspired by Chinese paintings, contrasting natural and dark colors and knitwear- an influence of Kim.

Mehrzad Hemati, who interned at Yigal Azrouel during her graduate year of study, already launched her RTW line “Mezza”. Her collection incorporated menswear elements, using cotton, satin, silk and organza. 

Livia Bianda, menswear designer, found her inspiration in football players’ structured uniforms. Backpacks, shorts, vests and t-shirts of bright colors were major elements of her collection.

Closed the show Wenhan Yuan with her very emotional and sensual collection for women comprised of cotton and paper-textured fabrics. 

Overall, this season the Academy of Art University presented very light and blurry collections of men and womenswear with structured silhouettes, clear cuts and new-edge style.

Elena Krotova