New York Fashion Week 2026: What to Expect and Notable Absences
New York Fashion Week (NYFW) is just around the corner, scheduled from February 11 to 16, 2026. While many prominent brands, including Michael Kors, Tory Burch, and Carolina Herrera, are set to showcase their collections, some notable designers will be missing from the lineup. This season promises to be filled with anticipation and surprises, but the absence of specific creatives raises questions about the state of the fashion industry.
Brandon Maxwell: A Missing Icon
Renowned designer Brandon Maxwell, celebrated for his chic and wearable collections, will not be appearing this NYFW. Previously a strong contender for the Calvin Klein Collection, his absence comes at a time when many independent brands face financial pressures due to the recent Saks Global bankruptcy. Despite reaching out to his PR team for insights, no comments were provided, leaving fans to speculate about the reasons behind this absence.
LaPointe’s Disappearance
Sally LaPointe, known for her unique take on modern femininity, is another designer missing from this season’s shows. While she doesn’t always participate in NYFW, her absence raises questions, especially since she typically offers visually stunning collections that captivate audiences. The reasons remain unclear, leaving fashion enthusiasts eager for updates.
The Alexander Wang Enigma
Alexander Wang’s sporadic presence at NYFW continues, as he sits out this season despite showcasing last year. Once a highlight of the runway with extravagant after-parties, his lack of participation this time has left fans feeling nostalgic. Efforts to get a statement from his PR team went unanswered, but many hope he will return in the future, as his resilience in the fashion world is well-known.
Changes for Jason Wu
Designer Jason Wu has made the significant decision to transition to a single annual collection, resulting in his absence this season. Wu has been beloved for his elegant designs and refined aesthetic, so his absence will certainly be felt. Fashion enthusiasts are left hoping for something exceptional in his next showing.
Monse’s Alternative Presentation
While Monse’s founders, Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, will not host a formal runway show, they plan an intimate Lunar New Year event on February 17, featuring a salon-style presentation of their Fall 2026 collection. This approach allows them to maintain a connection with their audience while highlighting the beauty of their designs.
Returning Favorites
Several notable designers, including Marc Jacobs and Ralph Lauren, are set to showcase their latest collections. Jacobs intends to present his show off the main calendar on February 9, while Lauren’s collection will debut on Tuesday night, just ahead of the official NYFW schedule. Both designers are known for their remarkable creativity and will ensure that their shows remain highlights of the week.
Tommy Hilfiger’s Potential Return
Though it has been three seasons since Tommy Hilfiger graced the NYFW stage, his absence has resulted in a yearning for his iconic runway spectacles. There are no immediate plans for his return, but the fashion community remains hopeful that he will reclaim his place in the spotlight, adding a much-needed sense of excitement to the event.
