New York Fashion Week may have concluded, but its influence is already rippling through the industry, particularly in the realm of outerwear. While runway trends often dictate broader style movements, the street style scene during NYFW offered a compelling distillation of what’s truly resonating with fashion insiders – and it’s a clear message: a statement coat isn’t just a practical necessity, it’s the foundation of a compelling look.
The week wasn’t about a multitude of fleeting micro-trends, but rather a focused embrace of a few key brands consistently seen on celebrities and editors navigating the city’s fashion landscape. , Vogue highlighted Nour Hammour, Arma, Toteme, Khaite, and Yves Salomon as the dominant outerwear choices, each offering a distinct take on winter classics. The common thread? A willingness to invest in pieces that command attention, whether through luxurious materials like plush shearling and buttery leather, or through bold design choices like animal prints.
This emphasis on outerwear as a focal point speaks to a broader shift in how people are approaching style. It’s a move away from constantly chasing newness and towards building a wardrobe around enduring, high-quality pieces. As Vogue noted, a great coat possesses a remarkable versatility. It can provide a grounding sense of sophistication or, conversely, serve as the entire statement, allowing for a more minimalist approach to the rest of the ensemble.
The publication cited examples of this in action, pointing to Nordstrom’s fashion director, Rickie De Sole, who paired a leopard print coat from Arma with a black turtleneck, beige skirt, and black leather boots – a masterclass in “pared-back maximalism.” Similarly, Vogue’s executive fashion director, Lisa Aiken, opted for a sleek leather funnel-neck jacket from Khaite, light-wash jeans, and pointy black boots, demonstrating the power of minimalism when anchored by a strong outerwear piece. The takeaway is clear: when the outer layer is exceptional, the rest of the outfit can be streamlined and essential.
Arma: A Modern Leather House
Among the brands leading this outerwear charge, Arma stands out as a modern leather house. Founded in 1985, the Amsterdam-based label has evolved from its origins to offer a wider range of pieces, all unified by a commitment to simple, streamlined silhouettes and elevated materials. This focus results in timeless wardrobe essentials that feel both current and enduring. Vogue specifically highlighted Arma’s leopard print coat, seen on De Sole, as a standout piece from the season, underscoring the brand’s ability to deliver on-trend designs with a classic sensibility.
The broader trend of embracing bold outerwear isn’t simply about aesthetics; it’s also a reflection of the practical demands of the season. As winter descends, the need for functional and stylish coats becomes paramount. However, the designers and fashion influencers showcased during NYFW demonstrated that practicality doesn’t have to come at the expense of style. The investment in quality materials – shearling, leather, and durable wool – ensures longevity, while the focus on strong silhouettes and statement-making details elevates these pieces beyond mere functional garments.
The emphasis on these five brands – Nour Hammour, Arma, Toteme, Khaite, and Yves Salomon – suggests a growing preference for understated luxury and enduring style. These aren’t brands driven by fleeting trends, but rather by a commitment to craftsmanship and timeless design. What we have is a significant shift in the fashion landscape, signaling a move away from fast fashion and towards a more considered, investment-driven approach to building a wardrobe.
The NYFW street style scene offered a glimpse into a future where outerwear isn’t just a shield against the elements, but a powerful form of self-expression. It’s a trend that’s likely to continue shaping fashion choices throughout and beyond, as individuals seek to make a statement with pieces that are both stylish and substantial.
