New York Fashion Week affirms less is more

It’s fashion week season. The fall/winter edition of NYFW just wrapped up and it was full of drool-worthy collections.

Although crazy outfits are part and parcel of the experience, NYFW isn’t all about sheer dresses and bizarre construction. In fact NYFW is known for an emphasis on commercial fashion – clothes that people can see themselves wearing and will actually buy.

There’s this misconception that being fashion forward in terms of western wear involves baring acres of skin. NYFW actually has something for everyone – from jaw-dropping strapless gowns to modest, full-sleeved ensembles.

To prove the point, check out these ten NYFW outfits that make a fashion statement without being overly revealing.

1. Anna Sui

Anna Sui’s Viking-inspired collection fused her breezy bohemian style with Nordic references. This kurta-skirt combo in a chikankari type fabric is a brilliant, wearable alternative to traditional Eastern cuts. So effortlessly cool.

This ensemble is perfect for the hot summer weather.

2. BCBG Max Azria

This grown-up take on boho chic from BCBG Max Azria is a bewitching combination of floaty silk and edgy eyelet studs. The turtle neck and cuffed balloon sleeves are key trends while the whole outfit channels that 70s vibe that was all over NYFW.

Vintage with an edge.

3. Marc Jacobs

There’s so much to love about this outfit - the cut, the contrast between the checked fabric and the shiny bands, the leather accessories and that gothic makeup all add up to a stellar whole.

The striking bands give the outfit dimension.

4. Marc Jacobs

This is not formal dressing for the faint of heart. The gorgeous lace dress with applique details gets an edgy makeover from that stunning maroon sequined coat. The gothic styling is the icing on the cake.

Another Marc Jacobs ensemble that shows women can leave something to the imagination and still look high fashion.

5. Nicole Miller

Nicole Miller’s Dark Woods theme featured colorful furs paired with complex metallic prints. While the use of fur in fashion is questionable, this silhouette is sophisticated and flattering.

Coupling different textures adds depth to outfits and.

6. Marisa Webb

Modern and feminine - the relaxed minimalist style of this outfit speaks volumes. Webb is currently the creative director of Banana Republic but this is from the signature label she launched in 2013. The tailoring and subtle detailing show how you can make a style statement with the bare essentials.

Belt up like this to give your Eastern wear a contemporary twist

7. Ralph Lauren

A twist on a classic theme is always a winner. This Ralph Lauren skirt with braces combo is witty and unexpected but true to Lauren’s core style. Pure genius.

Could the skirt with braces replace the pencil pants?

8. Suno

Suno shows how to rock print on print. The clean lines, lack of embellishment and those trendy pockets just sing. For those who can’t stomach mainstream shalwar kameez cuts, this is a taste of what individuality looks like.

Donning print on print can look great if done right.

9. Tibi

From the cropped wide leg trousers to the delicious way the fabric falls, this Tibi outfit screams easy elegance. Culottes are a key trouser trend this season – and one that can work well with Eastern wear, particularly now that hemlines are going up.

Simplicity is key with this Tibi piece.

10. Zimmerman

Zimmerman’s Fall collection had a strong 70’s inspiration summed up by this billowing maxi dress. The flowy chiffon folds, the vaguely ethnic print and the soft balloon sleeves are all bang on trend.