A joyful and inclusive show suggesting fashion was a means to celebrate all walks of life topped the bill at New York Fashion Week last night.
Models of varying ages, skin colour and dress size were the stars of Tommy Hilfiger’s show, in collaboration with teen sensation Zendaya, which looked to transport his Gen Z customers back to Seventies New York.
Specifically Harlem, with the area behind the neighbourhood’s storied Apollo Theater serving as a backdrop for Hilfiger’s second and final part of his collaboration with the Disney star turned global megabrand.
In keeping with the area’s reputation as a place of worship for jazz and Motown fans, a live band and gospel choir performed classics such as Harlem Shuffle and Aretha Franklin’s Respect.
The empowering soundtrack was befitting of Zendaya, who has been determined to make her first foray into fashion inclusive and celebratory.
Pussy-bow blouses, velvet flares and oversized floppy hats were among the defining items, while billowing glitter-ball dresses, stomping knee-high boots, and snakeskin A-line skirts turned heads. Think power-dressing but for the dancefloor rather than the boardroom.
The collection was the latest installment of the brand’s TommyNow line, meaning customers can get their hands on it immediately. Hilfiger also debuted a virtual reality shopping experience, showing determination to ensure his brand continues to resonate with youthful consumers.
A front row line-up including Gigi and Bella Hadid also looked designed to pique interest among young fans.