Alumna Ryan Roche’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection hits the runway at New York Fashion Week
RYAN ROCHE Academy of Art University alumna Ryan Roche presented her New York Fashion Week (NYFW) Spring/Summer 2020 collection at Spring Studios on Wednesday, Sept. 11. True to the designer’s aesthetic, the collection was full of ready-to-wear cashmere knits and classic silhouettes. While still feminine and full of romance, there was definitely a hint of menswear influence featured in the collection, from the oversized pants and puffy shoulders on the blazers to the tailored knee-length shorts.
The opening of Roche’s show set the mood, starting with the wonderful voices of the designer’s talented daughter, Luella Roche and her two best friends, Storey Littleton and Celia Babini, who sang a cover of the song “Distance” by Emily King. The first look in the collection featured a beige oversized shoulder trench coat paired with a pearl button-down shirt and trousers. The dresses that followed were airy and full, with spaghetti straps, butterfly sleeves, and bustier elements—simple, yet refined. The cashmere knits were cropped, oversized and voluminous.
The show was a minimalist’s dream, focusing solely on the clothing, with subtle hints of pearl accents, tiered ruffles, and lace details. Handcrafted Mary Janes, a collaboration with Brother Vellies, were the footwear of choice. The makeup was kept to a minimum, paired with slicked-down hair. As a whole, the collection was full of monochromatic looks and muted colors, from neutrals to soft blues. A splash of vibrant cherry red was saved for the very end.
As they did at the opening, the beautiful trio closed the show with melodic voices fit for such an elegant and beautifully executed luxury collection. And speaking of luxury, Roche’s commitment to sustainable fashion and American and Italian manufacturing took the term to new heights. Borrowing from the song by Emily King, the collection certainly makes one want to “maybe get dressed up, wear something real pretty.”
Visit Ryan Roche to shop the entire collection.
Catch my last post on Cotton sculptures by Linh La showcased at Supima Design Competition.