Moreover, Adams has been vocal in his support for the fashion industry and its twice-yearly season, which was estimated to have attracted 150,000 visitors and generated some $600 million per season prior to the pandemic.
 
“City Hall has always been a friend to fashion. But to have a major who really appreciates fashion’s role in job creation and in the overall economy is really great. We could not be happier that Major Adams and  Anna Wintour are kicking off the new season at Gracie Mansion,” explained Steven Kolb, CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of America

 
Hizzoner’s reception also underlines a new dynamism in New York Fashion Week, led by a drive to create far more inclusive seasons, backed up by a policy of unearthing a new generation of talent.
 
“I am really proud of the fact that this season over 20% of the brands are led by designers of color. There have long been questions about lack of diversity in our industry. But it’s a global issue. It’s a very important conversation we have been having in the States. And to see the lineup for the coming season reflecting greater diversity, well — I’m very excited about that,” said Kolb.
 
One important driver has been the CFDA VogueParsonsSonia RykielChristian Lacroix
 
Also earning his imprimatur: “a really cool knit brand” named Judy Turner; and a spruce new label using explosive prints named Fe Noel, by Grenadian-born Felisha Noe. Another to watch is the beautifully named Harwell Godfrey, a jeweler who skillfully blends ethnic, ancient and posh bohemian.

 
Plus, Puppets and Puppets, an art-driven project by mixed media artist Carly Mark. “That will be an awesome show!” insists Kolb in a Zoom to his home in Pennsylvania.
 
Though the heart of the matter in New York will be powerhouse billion-dollar-plus brands like Tommy HilfigerTory BurchCoachTom FordProenza Schouler
 
Though perhaps the biggest surprise is the arrival of a quartet of thriving European houses to stage runway shows. Ranging from FendiLVMHBottega VenetaKeringMarniPuma
 
“Marni and Fendi are conversations we have been having with those brands for quite some time. I see their arrival as a reaffirmation of the power of the US market. We are big country where a lot of people shop. And the best reach way to reach American consumers, and to build a brand and business in USA is to come to New York. So, we really welcome them. It’s all part of a growing recognition of New York city as a platform for global brands. And I am not trying to be so nationalistic. I feel same way for Thom BrowneAltuzarra
 
Elsewhere, a slew of European labels are also getting in on the action – with parties by Isabel MarantGivenchyCara DelevingneKarl LagerfeldHarper’s Bazaar Icons event – it’s first since the pandemic struck – done with Bloomingdales, to add an extra  level of enthusiasm.

 
While other labels sure to attract intense demand for invitations are Altuzarra, Brandon Maxwell, Carolina HerreraGabriela HearstJason WuLaQuan SmithPrabal GurungHudson
 
That said several notable marques like Marc JacobsMonsePyer MossAmerican ExpressRaymond
 
“Lots of people prefer a personal strategy, which is fine. And one reason why when Tom Ford was CFDA chairman we also created an overaching umbrella – American Collections Calendar. So, wherever an American showed, even in Europe, we captured that,” noted Kolb.

 
However, the biggest missing name of all is Ralph Lauren, America’s single most famous brand, who after staging a one-off show inside the Museum of Modern Art in New York, will now decamp – for at least one season – to LA for an October 13 show.
 
“I’m not at all surprised by Ralph’s decision.  Ralph Lauren is theeee ambassador of American fashion and him going to Los Angeles is a great consumer angle, a tremendous idea. And I would not be surprised if he went to Paris one day. He has the global infrastructure,” said the CFDA CEO.

The CFDA has also teamed up with Polygon Studios and The Sandbox, to provide professional development programs to explain opportunities within the metaverse to designers and fashion professionals.
 
“I totally believe in creating NFTs. Even if after being immersed in the metaverse it is still like speaking in a foreign language! And who knows where it will be in three months or a year? Brands are very interested but also confused. But we’ve had huge demand for these programs!” underlined Kolb.
 
All shows and presentations will be presented via Runway360, CFDA’s centralized digital hub and business tool to support American fashion brands’ collection releases year-round.
 
“Last season I said the theme was resilience and optimism. This season it is about power and action. Of course, the pandemic meant a gradual return, but this is finally a full-on fashion week