Alexander Wang returned to NYFW and presented a new collection

Alexander Wang presented its Pre-Fall/Fall 2023 collection on February 8, earlier than the official New York Fashion Week schedule. This collection was held in three parts, combining the women’s pre-fall, the fall, and a newly-relaunched menswear line.

The venue for the collection, dubbed “Cupid’s Door,” had a decidedly sensual atmosphere, with dusty pink velvet curtains, a seductive zebra-striped carpet, and pink lighting throughout the room.

The women’s section, which opened the runway, featured denim in different textures and silhouettes, bold faux fur, and pieces with animal prints such as zebra and crocodile. In addition to those, crisp jackets also made an appearance, giving a somewhat formal impression.

The next men’s section featured athleisure-style items such as sweatpants and sweatshirts in soft high-pile fabrics alongside cropped vests and animal-print pants. Although casual, they seemed to express a sensuality that was second to none in the women’s section.

The final women’s section featured silk fringe dresses sewn over ultra-thin netting. Dangling long from the bust, the fringe dress was reminiscent of a show from 2011, when Wang was at its peak.

Alexander Wang has been facing allegations of sexual misconduct brought on by designer Wang after a show in May of 2019, putting the brand’s image and business in jeopardy for some time. Thus this was the first runway show in New York after surviving such a firestorm. Guests attending the show reportedly warmly welcomed Alexander Wang’s comeback.

Also very innovative was the promotion in a reel shown on the brand’s Instagram before the collection was unveiled, featuring Anna Delby, the actual character from “Inventing Anna,” the documentary about the socialite con artist that hit Netflix last year. She appeared from her East Village apartment, where she is under house arrest, and announced the collection in a sassy manner that fits perfectly with the atmosphere of the collection.