There’s a certain electricity in New York during Fashion Week that’s hard to explain until you’re in it. The energy pours out of the shows and spills onto the sidewalks with bold, head turning looks on every corner, candid snaps with friends, and a creative pulse that feels alive in the city. This season, I was lucky enough to take it all in, from the whimsical drama at Alice & Olivia to the thoughtful, message-driven collection at Private Policy, and of course, the street style that makes NYFW feel like a city-wide runway.

Alice & Olivia: A Playful Feast for the Eyes

Stacey Bendet knows how to put on a show. Walking into Alice & Olivia felt like stepping into a kaleidoscope of color, sparkle, and texture. There were sequin minis, layers of tulle, tailored pieces with a disco edge. It was maximalism in the best possible way.

What struck me most was how she balanced fantasy with wearability. A tailored jacket might have been dripping in embellishment, but styled in a way that made it feel approachable. It reminded me that sequins don’t need to be saved for Saturday night; they can live just as easily with denim and a great pair of boots on a Tuesday.

Private Policy: Fashion With a Message

Private Policy’s show couldn’t have been more different, and that’s the beauty of Fashion Week. Where Alice & Olivia leaned into sparkle, Private Policy leaned into storytelling. The collection had a utilitarian backbone structured jackets, cargo-inspired details, workwear references but it was elevated with unexpected fabrics and finishes.

The show touched on themes of identity and community, giving weight to the idea that what we wear can be more than just surface. I loved the asymmetry and the layering looks that felt rooted in the city and spoke to the grit and resilience that defines New York itself.

Street Style: The Real Runway

And then, of course, there’s the sidewalk. NYFW wouldn’t be NYFW without the parade of personal style outside the venues. This season, I noticed a quieter palette of camel coats, cream trousers, soft knits paired with one strong statement piece taking over like an ornate belt, architectural bag, or oversized sunglasses.

It felt like a response to the excess of the runways, a reminder that simplicity can still stand out when the details are right. For me, it was just as inspiring as the shows themselves watching how people took trends and translated them into something lived-in and personal.

From the glitter-drenched joy of Alice & Olivia, to the thoughtful edge of Private Policy, to the sidewalks full of self-expression, this season reminded me why I love NYFW. It’s not just about the clothes, it’s about the stories, the individuality, and the community that fashion creates. And the best part? You don’t have to be on a runway to join in. Take what inspires you, mix it with your own style, and make it your own.