New York Men's Day Fall / Winter 2022
photographed by Kate Hada and Victoria Huerta on Feb 11
written by Kate Hada
On Friday in Manhattan’s west side, Canoe Studios hosted the 17th annual New York Men's Day. Sponsored by Perry Ellis, eight young and hungry designers along with Perry Ellis showcased their collections in person for the first time since the pandemic. Divided into two time slots, morning and evening, these creators presented designs from dawn to dusk. Accompanying the presentations were stunning looks from guests, inspiring each other with their unique outfits.
Kicking off the morning was A. Potts, William Frederick, TEDDY VONRANSON, STAN, and Perry Ellis America. Perry Ellis conveyed classic American sportswear, feeling fresh and clean-cut. Using the studio space as his personal runaway, A. Potts' unisex pieces dominated with their sculptural build. Cleveland-based brand William Frederick created elevated, timeless pieces that maintain functionality. STAN’s sustainable surfer approach was stunning, and I enjoyed their versatile vibes. Melted snow piles with cold lighting contrasted the colorful yet bundled-up pieces by TEDDY VONRANSON, combing East and West Coast styles into one.
Perry Ellis
photographed by Kate Hada and Victoria Huerta
A Potts
photographed by Kate Hada and Victoria Huerta
William Frederick
photographed by Kate Hada and Victoria Huerta
STAN
photographed by Kate Hada and Victoria Huerta
TEDDY VONRANSON
photographed by Kate Hada and Victoria Huerta
From growing up in California to attending college in New York City, I’ve noticed how the weather affects your clothing. Californians' style reflects the consistent perfect weather that creates comfort, whereas New York's tumultuous weather challenges residents to think outside the box. When I see someone walking in a snowstorm in their Sunday best, I’m mentally applauding them for their efforts. Neither is better than the other, just different.
My studio professor Peter* last semester dissed fashion week events, summarizing that "Once you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all." Even more so, he said he lost interest in attending frivolous fashion parties. Most entertaining of all was Peter and I making eye contact in the hallway, unanimously remembering his comments. He quickly turned around, speeding away in embarrassment before I could say hello.
After an eventful morning, Nicholas Raefski, Atelier Cillian, Clara Son, and The Academy New York began their evening presentations. Nicholas Raefski captured 1970’s nostalgia and friendship in his collection, “Meet Me by the Bleachers,” with striking colors and evolved high school stereotypes. Inspired by Hellfire Club, Atelier Cillian curated magnificently tailored suites that bounced the line between femininity and masculinity. The Academy New York had their clothes on display showing off prized pieces, stunningly exhibited on the rack that I could imagine them dressed on models. Finally, Clara Son stunned with their bug-inspired collection complemented by a contemporary dance piece throughout the showcase. Surprising everyone, models left their spots to join the assorted dancers, showcasing how moveable the clothing can be.
Nicholas Raefski
photographed by Kate Hada
Atelier Cillian
photographed by Kate Hada
Clara Son
photographed by Kate Hada
New York Men’s Day guests reflected various wardrobe styles. Despite the depressing weather, guests brightened up the room with colorful suits, furs, and trench coats. Taking personal style notes myself, I noticed that fur-lined black puffers and floor-length jackets made frequent appearances. Red and blue colors were adorned passionately, whether combined or worn collectively. Many guests wore various Prada pieces as well, whether a handbag or bodysuit.
NYMD guests photographed by Kate Hada
Besides the 20-minute elevator line to leave, New York Men's Day 2022 is one for the books. No collection was the same, which can be said for everyone attending. Events like these help young artists realize their dreams are closer than they seem.
*name changed for privacy