Everything
Words: Shayne Tino
Wow, just wow. Stuart Vevers has successfully and powerfully paid homage to the heritage of the Coach identity, whilst adding modern pop references throughout the FW2020 collection. Consistently sophisticated, he cohesively blends elements of edginess, tradition and cool, embodying the ultimate New Yorker style.
This luxury American brand has definitely been the highlight of New York Fashion Week. Through the lingering rain came a welcomed shine in the form of the Coach FW2020 Show. Set in the city’s north, the atmosphere was electric as the stylish attendees arrived. The narrative that Creative Director, Stuart Vevers, began last season continued throughout this collection. Presenting his inspiring interpretation of stripped-back New York cool. In menswear, Vevers showcased shearling and leather bombers. Some more clean and essential, others enriched by interesting graphic details depicting artwork from the estate of late New York artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.
Notable details from Vevers were seen as he drew inspiration from Coach’s deep roots in leather, to create a trench coat accented with sport centric details such as nylon zips. The stripes were offered in both women’s and men’s, though the latter in a more subdued colour palette as shown in its outerwear styles. Continuing the buzz surrounding Coach from last season, and its rise of celebrity friends & endorsers, A-list guests included Michael B. Jordan, Megan Thee Stallion, Jon Batiste, and Paloma Elsesser.
On the runway, stand out models included Australia’s 2019 Model of the Year, Adut Check, and the daughter of iconic super model Cindy Crawford, Kaia Gerber. Overall it was a well-rounded cast of fashion’s elite, who seemed little fazed by the star-studded audience.
A defining moment, and the close of the FW 2020 runway, saw a surprise appearance by the iconic Debbie Harry, who joined punk-rock band, The Coathangers, to perform Blondie’s timeless hit ‘Dreaming’. Harry joined Vevers as he took his bow and walked the runway, celebrating such an evolutionary moment for the brand.
Well done to Stuart and the entire Coach team, to say I’m looking forward to next season is an understatement.
