9 Young Designers to Watch This NYFW
These are the need-to-know young designers on the New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2023 runways.
This year's lineup of fresh faces at New York Fashion Week is incredibly impressive. Each of these designers has a special twist on modern fashion, with utmost attention to quality, sustainability, and individuality. A common thread that ties them all together, however, is their courage to experiment with a variety of colors and textures. Some of these designers have never shown at NYFW before, but we have no doubt we'll be seeing some of these faces for years to come. Take a look at some amazing young designers heading to the runway this season.
Colin LoCascio
Colin LoCascio studied at the Rhode Island School of Design, and it wasn't long after that he catapulted himself into the fashion world. He began his career by collaborating with designers like Marc Jacobs and was also asked to design unique looks for A-Listers like Paris Hilton, Bella Hadid, and Lil' Yachty. LoCascio's use of colors and textures is skillful and precise. We're so excited to see where this new designer goes.
Weiderhoeft
There is nothing subtle about Jackson Weiderhoeft's designs. In fact, the boldness is what makes his designs stand out from others. In 2016, he won the Women's Designer of the Year at Parsons, and he has created a name for himself since then. More recently, Weiderhoeft has dabbled in bridal fashion. We have a feeling we'll be seeing his majestic dresses on brides all around the world.
PH5
In 2023, we are focused on making the world a better place. Finding sustainable fashion brands can be a little tricky, but PH5 is one to add to your list. Designer Wei Lin started her knitwear label in 2014 with the intention of supporting her family's business, but now, the designs are sold in boutiques around the U.S., Canada, and Singapore and online on Shopbop.com.
Alejandra Alonso Rojas
Born and raised in Madrid, Alejandra Alonso Rojas grew up learning the art of knitting from her parents and grandparents. She creates one-of-a-kind pieces that are perfect additions to a basic wardrobe. As we've seen so far, Alonso Rojas is a master of precision and intricacy and also prides herself on sustainability.
A--Company
Designer Sara Lopez studied fashion design in Paris under former mentees of Anne Valérie Hash and Yohji Yamamoto. Lopez began her New York-based brand in 2018 and has completely redefined the meaning of modern luxury. Like many of her fellow designers, she uses sustainable materials during her process and also limits the number of her designs so nothing goes to waste.
Aknvas
For all of the minimalists out there, Aknvas is the perfect brand for you. Before starting his own clothing line, designer Christian Juul Nielsen worked for brands like Dior, Nina Ricci, and Oscar de la Renta. He is also the creative director for Land of Distraction and Hervé Léger. As you can see, Nielsen is overly qualified and has made a name for himself in the fashion industry. His objective is to create staple pieces that can stay in your closet forever.
Foo and Foo
We've been making a list of new clothing brands which prioritize inclusivity and use their platforms as a voice. With its genderfluid designs, streetwear brand Foo and Foo does just that. Elizabeth Hilfiger, daughter of Tommy Hilfiger and mastermind behind the label, emphasizes the importance of breaking through stereotypes and making fashion accessible to all. Not only are the pieces comfortable, but they are also canvases for important messages.
Head of State
Nigerian-born designer Taofeek Abijako was only 17 years old when he launched his brand Head of State (HOS). Based in New York, the label focuses on the effects postcolonialism had and still has on younger generations. When you observe streetwear, not only do you see comfortable, unique pieces, but you also see art. Similarly to Foo and Foo, HOS uses its platform to spread a message about social and political spaces.
House of Aama
With their focus on age inclusivity and Black history, mother and daughter design duo Rebecca Henry and Akua Shabaka have shaken up the fashion world. In 2021, the pair were finalists for the CDFA/Vogue Fashion Fund, and since then, they have paved their way, proving their power through clothing. Each piece feels nostalgic in its own way and pays homage to Black heritage. House of Aama will shine bright on the runways this year.