Fashion weeks always come with a certain sense of theatre—flashes of cameras, front rows stacked with celebs, and clothes that whisper (or sometimes shout) what’s next in style. But this season’s New York Fashion Week served up something a little different. It was equal parts nostalgia, celebration, and innovation, featuring runway returns we didn’t know we needed, sun-smart luxury, and a 25-year brand milestone that transported guests straight to the Amalfi Coast—without ever leaving Manhattan.
Let’s dive into the standout moments from Melissa Odabash’s Capri-inspired spectacle, the star-studded Coolibar x Mott50 showcase, and a dose of influencer-charged energy from OH POLLY and its Love Island crew.
A Capri Dream in Manhattan: Melissa Odabash Turns 25 in Style
Caption: Models walk the Melissa Odabash runway against 360° LED projections of the Amalfi Coast, celebrating 25 years of luxury swimwear.
Melissa Odabash knows how to throw a party—and for her brand’s 25th anniversary, she brought Capri to the concrete jungle. The London-based designer and former model presented her Spring/Summer 2026 collection with a show that shimmered with sun-drenched nostalgia and cosmopolitan polish.
The venue was transformed by cinematic 360° LED screens showcasing soaring views of the Amalfi coastline, mixed with a retrospective of her most iconic magazine covers. Think sun, sea, and style—served on a glittering silver platter.
Practical Glamour, the Odabash Way
From the moment the models hit the runway, it was clear this wasn’t just swimwear—it was a love letter to sophisticated travel. The collection leaned into versatility, ideal for jet-setting women who don’t have time to change between the beach and the bar.
Standout looks included:
- Crisp linen co-ords with waist-cinching tailoring, elevating the classic resort set.
- Sheer kaftans and lace dresses, perfect for layering over bikinis without compromising on elegance.
- One-shoulder jumpsuits and flowing pant sets, subtly shimmering under the lights.
The colour palette was a masterclass in restraint: timeless whites, jet blacks, and soft blush tones, with the occasional pop of dark denim. It all felt effortlessly rich—like slipping on a piece of St. Barth’s sunshine.
Attention to Detail
Odabash’s trademark craftsmanship was everywhere. Her use of crochet, lace, and fine cottons gave each look a delicate, tactile appeal. The silver-dusted cottons were especially dreamy, catching the light like sea foam under moonlight.
Signature elements included:
- Lace dresses styled over swimwear, offering a playful peek without going full-on risqué.
- ‘70s-inspired linens and romantic silhouettes that hinted at retro glamour without looking dated.
- Coral-inspired prints and soft metallic finishes that nodded to oceanic elegance.
For a collection rooted in leisure, there was serious sartorial thought behind every piece. Whether you’re brunching in Ibiza or lounging poolside in Palm Springs, Odabash has created a line that feels equal parts indulgent and intentional.
The Runway Revival: Niki Taylor & Dayanara Torres for Coolibar x Mott50
From the Coolibar Mott50 Edition runway, one of this season’s standout trends is the warm, serene hues of “Desert Dawn” – a soft peachy terracotta that evokes the peaceful glow of a desert sunrise. With its perfect blend of beige and subtle orange undertones, this color offers a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe, ideal for spring and summer collections. It pairs beautifully with both neutral tones and earthy accents, making it a versatile, timeless choice for effortless, sun-kissed elegance in everything from flowing dresses to minimalist separates. (Photos by JP Yim/Getty Images)
Sometimes, fashion delivers moments that hit you right in the nostalgia—and this was one of them. Nineties supermodel Niki Taylor made her long-awaited return to the runway, closing out the Coolibar Mott50 Edition showcase alongside former Miss Universe Dayanara Torres.
The energy in the room? Electric.
Held at the chic Empire Room atop 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, the show drew a glamorous crowd including singer Sarah Orloff, designer Marc Bouwer, actor Sophie Skelton, and Swedish model Alex Lundqvist. From the catwalk to the rooftop soirée that followed, it was an evening brimming with star power and style.
Sun-Safe, But Make It Fashion
Coolibar’s Mott50 Edition isn’t your average sun-safe brand. Their pieces feature UPF 50+ technology—offering built-in sun protection without sacrificing aesthetics. This line bridges the gap between wellness and luxury fashion, and it couldn’t have come at a more timely moment.
Trends from the collection included:
- Silky maxi dresses with built-in SPF, showing that function can be fabulous.
- Minimalist cuts and earth-tone palettes, ideal for sophisticated layering.
- Wide-brimmed hats and structured silhouettes that speak to a vintage kind of glamour.
And then there was the ultimate mic-drop: Niki Taylor striding out in a figure-skimming, floor-length gown that caught every iPhone in the room. She hasn’t lost an ounce of her iconic walk—or her ability to command attention with just a glance.
Love Island Energy: OH POLLY Sets the Internet Ablaze
One of the standout trends at the Oh Polly x Cindy Kimberly NYFW Runway Showcase: Bolero-style fur jackets layered over sleek silhouettes (Photo Credit: Bryan Bedder, Getty Images).
Fashion purists might roll their eyes, but there’s no denying the cultural clout of Love Island. The OH POLLY show proved that social media and the catwalk aren’t mutually exclusive. With a front row packed with reality stars, the vibe was unapologetically digital age.
The brand, known for its figure-hugging, skin-baring styles, brought plenty of viral energy to New York. Think bold cut-outs, body-con fabrics, and a Gen Z palette of lilacs, creams, and sage greens.
Highlights included:
- Ruched mini dresses made for after-hours mischief.
- Co-ord sets that blend gym-wear comfort with club-ready flair.
- Sheer panelling and asymmetrical cuts, designed for Instagram angles.
Say what you will, but OH POLLY understands its audience—and knows exactly how to court the fashion crowd while keeping the TikTok generation engaged.
Beyond the Lights: What This NYFW Says About the Future
This season felt like a reminder of fashion’s multi-dimensional power. It’s not just about the clothes—it’s about storytelling, identity, innovation, and reinvention. Whether it was a supermodel returning to the spotlight, a legacy brand celebrating a quarter-century, or a digital-first label owning its moment, every runway told a story.
Here’s what really stood out:
- Sun-smart fashion is finally sexy – Coolibar and Mott50 proved that protective wear doesn’t have to look clinical.
- Luxury is going practical – Melissa Odabash’s designs embraced comfort without compromising glamour.
- Influencer culture isn’t fading – OH POLLY’s success shows there’s space for internet-fuelled fashion in traditional spaces.
At the end of the day, fashion week isn’t just for the elite anymore—it’s for everyone with a story to tell, whether you’re strutting down a catwalk or posting from the front row.
Final Thoughts
This year’s NYFW had all the hallmarks of a classic season—glamour, celebrity cameos, and trendsetting collections—but it also felt like a turning point. With inclusivity, innovation, and nostalgia colliding in unforgettable ways, the runway felt more connected to the real world than ever before.
So whether you’re planning your next resort getaway or scrolling for style inspo on the train, take a leaf out of this season’s playbook: think timeless, sun-safe, and just a bit daring.
Got a favourite NYFW moment? Drop it in the comments below or share it on social with #NYFWRewind2025.