Talking-Point Accessories Are The Hot Topic Of New York Fashion Week

Over the last few days at New York Fashion Week Ralph Lauren celebrated 50 years in business, Rodarte and Proenza Schouler returned to the schedule and the weather went from blistering to torrential. Yet, in unexpected news, it’s not been the weather or the reunions, but the catwalk accessories that have got people talking.

As the first stop on the month-long Ferris wheel of fashion week’s, New York tends to be the pace setter. The mix of established (Oscar de la Renta and Caroline Herrera) and burgeoning labels (like Sies Marjan, Matthew Adams Dolan and Pyer Moss), as well as anniversary celebrations of Escada (40th), Longchamp (70th) and Ralph Lauren, have made for a busy few days. Yet, among the clatter of champagne glasses and the thunderstorms, the biggest noise has sprung from the eclectic, eccentric accessories on display.

Brandon Maxwell’s fedoras, for instance, came enclosed in perspex handbags, which recalled his other witty receptacle, the rose wine bag. At Christian Siriano, straw vanity cases were embroidered with the words ‘It Bag’ to make a not-so-subtle gaff about the state of the luxury handbag market. Meanwhile, at Nolcha, which is a showcase for younger labels, ACID NYC made tasty treats out of supersized strawberry evening bags, cross-body dumplings and sushi roll duffle bags.

Comedy aside, sunglasses (like the blown-up lens at Kate Spade), turbans (Cushie) and rope accessories (as a belt at Claudia Li and handle to a supple slouchy tote at Proenza Schouler) also made a strong statement.

The takeaway? Next spring keep the outfit simple and the accessories conversation starters.