Rebecca Minkoff Fall '20 Ready-to-Wear Presentation
Through a sea of photographers, I spy a team of four enforcing temperature checks at the door of Spring Studios. A red wristband gives each guest the green light, signifying that we can move onto the next stage of entry. Circles on the ground, reminiscent of Kindergarten poly spots, remind us to stand six feet apart from fellow attendees. After several minutes of waiting for limited-space elevators, once again, we stand on social-distancing marks while being taken to our final destination. The doors open to a rooftop, and we’re welcomed by more cameras, blasting music and a hand sanitizer dispenser. This is the first-ever pandemic New York Fashion Week.
In light of the coronavirus outbreak, the majority of designers chose to abandon a traditional runway or presentation in lieu of a virtual showcase. Rebecca Minkoff, however, was eager to keep the spirit of Fashion Week alive and in-person. The designer organized an upbeat celebration for an exclusive group of attendees, who were invited, a few at a time, to view her latest collection during a 15-minute time slot (a stark contrast to her biannual two-hour presentation). A boho-rock, NYC nightlife theme radiated from four dioramas, temporarily transporting guests to a lively, pre-corona Manhattan.
Upon entering the venue, classic rock tunes blasted from speakers, including karaoke favorites “Do You Wanna Touch Me?” and “Walk this Way.” Minkoff’s live models (each wearing a mask) were surrounded by edgy decor and home commodities, provided exclusively by Lowe’s.
A band practice setting took center stage, adorned with guitars, microphones, speakers and additional sound equipment. Models were dressed in all-black ensembles—whether sequin, pleather or genuine leather—that suited the rock scene. A sparkling mini dress with voluminous sleeves was among the most notable pieces, coupled with studded kitten heel booties and a shoulder bag (one of the brand’s staple items).
A messy rock bedroom contained several scattered records, placed atop layers of printed carpets. The models, however, were far from disheveled: black sherpa toppers appeared quarantine-comfortable yet chic, while bold zebra bags and face masks pulled together select looks. One model donned a unique accessory recently introduced to the brand: the Pump and Baby Bag. Made in collaboration with Medela, the sleek tote includes a breast pump, removable pouch and slip pockets for moms on the go.
A vintage luggage set, complete with velvet sofas and armchairs, carried a different essence. The room, reminiscent of a downtown NYC hotel scene, showcased everything from floral prints to metallics to seasonal camel tones. Each look highlighted a biodegradable face covering made in a matching fabric; any purchase of the masks, which launch in two weeks, will donate a portion of proceeds to non-profit organization Mask a Hero.
Another lounge-esque diorama highlighted animal print in particular, displayed on a baby doll dress, pant, clutch, mask and more. A quarantine-friendly, soft-brushed plaid shirt jacket was another standout, paired with pleather pants and a croc-embossed leather bag.
Large-scale festivities may be banned, but Minkoff’s recent presentation proves that fashion still deserves to be celebrated. The future of the pandemic is untold, but the designer makes one thing clear: no matter what happens over the next few months, the city and its signature style will rock on.