Acne makes a strong showing at NYFW with bold silhouettes and directional detailing

NYFW has kicked off with the uber glamour of Tom Ford, the upper east side-chic of Ralph Lauren and the urban cool of Acne. If these three shows are anything to go by, New York fashion week, which some fashion critics have said has lost its edge over the past few years, is finding its footing again.

Strong shoulders, narrow waists and masculine cuts defined an AW19 collection by Acne that offers plenty for women to pick and choose from. There was directional suiting (boxy shoulders and asymmetric shapes), high waisted bag pants worn with with super skinny belts – creating a gorgeous contrast between masculine/feminine – chic separates in textured leathers; black, tan and grey, and elegant nude body-skimming maxi dresses that were stunning in their simplicity.

The collection was dominated by pragmatic neutrals but peppered with wonderful pops of colour in delicious shades of paprika and merlot. My favourite colour pop was this exquisite turmeric dress below.

Knitwear – that essential in every Irish woman’s winter wardrobe – was not neglected. An asymmetric sweater skirt, deconstructed jumpers that came in burgundy and beige, and a crew neck cropped sweater brought a tactility to the collection and served as a reminder of how those masculine jackets and trousers can be softened and made more accessible to women who fear looking too austere.

Standout pieces were an olive green leather dress with double side split and gathered sleeves (divine) and a thigh-skimming Bournville coloured sheepskin jacket (exquisite).