NYFW SS27 Recap: The Highlights of New York Fashion Week
New York Fashion Week SS27 has wrapped. From September 10 through 15, New York was once again all about fashion, with dozens of shows, presentations and events spread across the city. But the collections weren't the only thing that stuck with us. It was the unexpected performances, unusual locations and shows that did more than simply present clothing that made this edition of New York Fashion Week so interesting.
From Kim Shui using the streets of New York as her runway to Lauryn Hill unexpectedly taking the stage. These were the moments during NYFW SS27 that had everyone talking.
Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean delivered an unexpected moment
Photo: Vogue
If you had to pick one moment from NYFW SS27, chances are this is it. During 'The People's Runway' by KidSuper in Brooklyn, fashion was combined with music and community. Founder Colm Dillane organized the second edition of the event together with Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, giving five up-and-coming designers from Brooklyn the chance to present their collections during NYFW.
Admission to the event was free, and it drew thousands of people to Brooklyn Borough Hall. The evening closed with a performance by Wyclef Jean. He then brought none other than Lauryn Hill onto the stage for an unexpected performance of 'Ready or Not'. It made for an experience all on its own. What made it extra special was that the event coincided with the thirtieth anniversary of 'The Score', the iconic album by The Fugees.
Kim Shui brought the runway to the street
Photo: Kim Shui/@skyywu
This season, Kim Shui didn't go for a traditional show location. For her SS27 collection, she staged an outdoor show for the first time, right on the street in New York. And that was no random choice.
The collection drew inspiration from Beijing Opera, where everything revolves around performance, drama and different roles. Shui carried that idea through into the show itself. Instead of having models walk a closed-off runway, she sent them out onto the streets of New York. Among passersby and everyday city life, the show suddenly became part of what was already happening there. If you want to see how that energy translates into what's worn outside the shows, check out our NYFW street style trends.
The collection itself also showed a different side of Kim Shui. Alongside the sexy, Chinese-inspired looks, menswear made an appearance this time too. As a result, the show didn't feel like a standard runway, but more like a performance you happened to stumble upon while walking through New York.
Coach celebrated during NYFW
Photo: Coach/Giovanni Giannoni/WWD via Getty Images
Coach had every reason to go all out this year. The American brand turned 85, and celebrated after the SS27 show with a party that could have come straight out of Studio 54.
Think a giant birthday cake, party hats, a dance floor and a surprise performance by Violet Chachki, who even popped out of the cake to sing Happy Birthday. Meanwhile, Zack Fox and SG Lewis were on the decks, and guests including Elle Fanning, Storm Reid and Troye Sivan mingled at the party.
The fun part is that Coach did exactly what you'd expect from a birthday: not take it too seriously. The show and the party revolved around nostalgia, individuality and fun. And that might also be why Coach currently resonates so well with the younger generation.
Tommy Hilfiger makes his comeback at The Plaza
Photo: Getty Images for Tommy Hilfiger
For his comeback on the official NYFW schedule, Tommy Hilfiger chose a pretty iconic spot: The Plaza Hotel. Not simply because it looks great in photos, but because the location genuinely means something to him. Hilfiger lived there for years with his wife, and for the first time, decided to turn the lobby and Palm Court into the setting for his show.
And that actually worked perfectly. The Plaza instantly gave the collection that typical New York atmosphere, while Hilfiger showed off his own American style once again.
Gigi Hadid opened the show, and Kate Moss, Camila Cabello and Jisoo sat front row. The collection revolved around a refreshed version of Hilfiger's signature American preppy style, with oversized polos, rugby influences, bucket hats and plenty of red and navy. In the background, violinists could be heard playing hip-hop classics, and guests were treated to a live performance by Slayyyter.
As a result, it didn't feel like Tommy Hilfiger was simply looking back at the past. The familiar style was still there, but got an update that felt a lot more current. Exactly what you need if you want to make an older brand interesting again for the younger generation.
Sandy Liang SS27: gorpcore with a romantic twist
Photo: Hypebeast/Dazed
During NYFW, Sandy Liang showed that practical clothing really doesn't have to be boring. For SS27, she mixed gorpcore with an almost fairy-tale-like atmosphere. Track pants got ruffles, technical jackets were paired with romantic details, and the bags were anything but basic.
The accessories stood out in particular. Bunny shoes, ballet flats, hair clips and bags with striking details all made an appearance. Liang turns clothing that's normally mostly practical into something you actually want to look at. That might be one of the most fun things we're taking away from this NYFW. Outdoor fashion is allowed to get a bit more playful again.
What stood out during NYFW SS27?
What made this edition of New York Fashion Week interesting was that the best moments didn't always happen on the runway. They happened on the street, in a hotel, during a birthday party or right in the middle of Brooklyn.
And maybe that says something about fashion in 2026. A good collection alone isn't enough anymore. The brands that stick with you build a world around it, with music, community, entertainment and a location that becomes part of the story.
As a result, NYFW SS27 felt less like a week where you just look at clothes and more like a cultural moment you want to be part of.
Frequently asked questions about NYFW SS27
When was New York Fashion Week SS27?
New York Fashion Week SS27 took place from September 10 through 15, 2026. Six days with dozens of shows, presentations and events spread across the city, from Brooklyn Borough Hall to the Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel.
What was the biggest moment of NYFW SS27?
Lauryn Hill's performance during KidSuper's 'The People's Runway' in Brooklyn. Wyclef Jean was already on stage and brought her forward unannounced for 'Ready or Not'. The event coincided with the thirtieth anniversary of The Fugees' 'The Score', which gave the moment extra weight.
Which brands made the most noise during NYFW SS27?
KidSuper, Kim Shui, Coach, Tommy Hilfiger and Sandy Liang defined this edition. Coach celebrated its 85th birthday with a Studio 54 party, Tommy Hilfiger returned to the official schedule with a show at The Plaza, and Kim Shui traded the runway for the streets of New York.
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