New York Fashion Week continued to draw a glittering crowd this weekend, with LaQuan Smith’s Fall 2026 Ready-to-Wear show proving a major draw for celebrities. The front row was packed with notable names, signaling the designer’s continued ascent within the industry and the enduring appeal of a live fashion experience.
Among those spotted at the show, as documented by WWD, were actress Maura Higgins, singer Monica and model Amaya Espinal. Industry veteran June Ambrose, known for her influential styling work, also attended, alongside Fern Mallis, a key figure in the development of New York Fashion Week itself. The presence of Mallis underscores the show’s significance within the broader fashion calendar.
The celebrity attendance wasn’t limited to established stars. Actress Brianna LaPaglia, Bianca Lawson, and Hallie Batchelder were also present, representing a mix of rising talent and familiar faces. Priyanka Chigurupati and Lauren Luo added to the diverse guest list, demonstrating Smith’s broadening appeal.
Notably, Bianca Lawson, June Ambrose, and Monica were photographed together, suggesting a shared appreciation for Smith’s designs. Ebony Taylor and Ciara Miller were also in attendance. Even LaQuan Smith himself was spotted amongst the crowd, a testament to his hands-on approach and connection to the event.
The show’s draw extends beyond simply showcasing a new collection. It’s a cultural moment, a convergence of fashion, entertainment, and social influence. The Instagram reel posted by @laquan_smith highlights this, framing the event as a celebration of “baddies” and a “Galentine’s Day-coded” atmosphere. This suggests a deliberate effort to cultivate a specific brand identity – one that is confident, empowered, and unapologetically feminine.
The Fall 2026 season, as highlighted by InStyle, is proving to be a particularly strong one for New York Fashion Week, with “star-studded front rows” and “viral trends” dominating the conversation. Smith’s show clearly fits into this narrative, generating buzz and capturing attention both within the industry and among a wider audience.
Beyond the celebrity spectacle, the broader context of New York Fashion Week is also worth noting. WWD reports on emerging inspirations for Fall 2026, specifically a resurgence of “Medieval Times” aesthetics. While the LaQuan Smith show’s specific design influences haven’t been detailed in the available sources, this broader trend suggests a potential shift towards more dramatic, historically-inspired silhouettes and embellishments in the coming season.
LaQuan Smith has steadily built a reputation for creating bold, body-conscious designs that appeal to a clientele seeking glamour and sophistication. His shows have become known for their high-energy atmosphere and carefully curated guest lists. The Fall 2026 show appears to be continuing this trend, solidifying Smith’s position as a key player in the contemporary fashion landscape.
The consistent presence of recognizable faces at Smith’s shows isn’t merely about star power. It’s a strategic move that amplifies the brand’s visibility and reinforces its association with a particular lifestyle. Celebrity endorsements, whether formal or simply through attendance, carry significant weight in the fashion world, influencing consumer perception and driving sales.
The fact that WWD and Google News both highlighted the celebrity attendance underscores the ongoing importance of the front row as a barometer of a show’s success. While the focus of fashion coverage is increasingly shifting towards inclusivity and diverse representation, the presence of high-profile figures remains a key indicator of a designer’s cultural relevance.
As New York Fashion Week continues, the LaQuan Smith show serves as a prime example of how designers are leveraging celebrity partnerships and creating immersive experiences to capture attention in an increasingly crowded media landscape. The show’s success will likely be measured not only by the critical reception of the collection itself, but also by its ability to generate social media buzz and translate into commercial success.
