NYFW Fall 2026: Anne Hathaway, Lana Del Rey & Star Sightings
- The unofficial kickoff to New York Fashion Week was marked by a flurry of celebrity sightings, both on the runways and in the front rows.
- The buzz began at Ralph Lauren’s show, held at the Jack Shainman Gallery.
- Lauren’s collection itself drew inspiration from a diverse range of historical and stylistic references, blending nostalgia with a “renegade spirit,” as the designer explained.
The unofficial kickoff to was marked by a flurry of celebrity sightings, both on the runways and in the front rows. While the official calendar begins today, and saw designers like Ralph Lauren and Marc Jacobs presenting their Fall/Winter 2026 collections, drawing a constellation of stars eager to preview the upcoming season’s trends.
The buzz began at Ralph Lauren’s show, held at the Jack Shainman Gallery. The event, which took place a day before the official start of NYFW, quickly became a magnet for A-list attendees. Anne Hathaway made a notable entrance, prompting a surge of photographers. She was joined by her husband, Adam Shulman and fellow couple Rebecca Hall and Morgan Spector, adding a romantic undercurrent to the proceedings. But perhaps the most anticipated arrival was that of Lana Del Rey and her husband, Jeremy Dufrene, who shared a kiss on the step-and-repeat, instantly becoming a focal point for the assembled press.
Lauren’s collection itself drew inspiration from a diverse range of historical and stylistic references, blending nostalgia with a “renegade spirit,” as the designer explained. The show featured elements reminiscent of Joan of Arc, with chainmail tops and dresses, alongside the elegance of the Edwardian era, showcased through smocked blouses and tailored jackets. Lauren’s signature equestrian attire – riding boots, tweeds, and oversized belt buckles – also played a prominent role, solidifying the collection’s theme of “the adventure of fashion.” Gigi Hadid opened and closed the show, further elevating the event’s profile.
The pre-NYFW activity wasn’t limited to Ralph Lauren. Marc Jacobs hosted an off-schedule show the night before, effectively launching the week’s festivities. The front row at Jacobs’ show included Industry star Myha’la, Julia Fox, Nicky Hilton, and Joan Smalls, signaling a strong start to the fashion week calendar.
As New York Fashion Week officially commenced on , the celebrity presence continued. Coach’s show drew Odessa A’zion, Omar Apollo, and Quenlin Blackwell, who documented their attendance with selfies alongside Elle Fanning. These early shows suggest a strong celebrity turnout for the remainder of the week.
The presence of these high-profile figures isn’t merely about star power. it’s a strategic alignment between the fashion industry and the entertainment world. Celebrities lend prestige and visibility to designers, while designers, in turn, provide a platform for stars to showcase their personal style. The coupling of Hathaway’s dramatic black lace gown and Del Rey’s Americana-infused look, for example, underscores the power of fashion to both reflect and shape cultural narratives. Hathaway’s choice, described as “old-school theatrics,” and her channeling of her Devil Wears Prada character, Andy Sachs, demonstrates a playful awareness of her own image and the enduring influence of fashion in popular culture.
The early days of NYFW have already established a tone of glamour, and anticipation. With the official calendar now underway, industry observers and fashion enthusiasts alike are bracing for a week filled with runway shows, presentations, and, more celebrity appearances. The convergence of fashion and entertainment promises to continue, shaping not only the trends of Fall/Winter 2026 but also the cultural conversation surrounding style and celebrity influence.