The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) inaugurated New York Fashion Week with an exclusive cocktail gathering at Bar SixtyFive, situated high above Midtown. This distinguished event, bringing together more than 200 luminaries from the fashion world, marked the official commencement of the Spring/Summer 2026 season. Industry icons such as Thom Browne, Michael Kors, and Anna Sui co-hosted the soirée alongside Steven Kolb, the CEO of CFDA, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement for the week ahead.
Steven Kolb underscored the importance of New York Fashion Week as a pivotal moment for the city, emphasizing its role as one of the world's four leading fashion capitals and the first to unveil new collections. He proudly noted the innovative decision to broadcast shows live and free to the public for the second consecutive time, making fashion accessible to a broader audience. Thom Browne, in his capacity as CFDA chairman, elaborated on his initiative to screen all official runway shows at Rockefeller Center, aiming to elevate American fashion voices and celebrate the profound creativity inherent in New York's diverse design landscape. Browne articulated that despite the challenges, the city's unwavering commitment to creativity remains its greatest strength.
The evening was a dynamic convergence of animated discussions, spanning from the intense Fashion Week schedules to the debut presentations of emerging talents. Amidst a distinguished crowd that included fashion stalwarts like Wes Gordon, Zac Posen, Vera Wang, and New York Fashion Week founder Fern Mallis, guests mingled over exquisite drinks. The presence of CFDA board member Tory Burch and Anna Wintour further underscored the event's significance. This spirited kickoff, complete with invigorating espresso martinis, served as a timely reminder for attendees to prepare for the whirlwind of style and innovation that characterizes New York Fashion Week.
This celebration of fashion not only showcases creativity but also fosters unity and innovation within the industry. By making runway shows accessible to the public, the CFDA promotes inclusivity, demonstrating that the world of high fashion can inspire and engage everyone. Such initiatives highlight a forward-thinking approach, proving that with vision and collaboration, the fashion community can continue to evolve, break barriers, and uplift spirits through artistry and design.