Michael Kors’ “Dégagé Chic” dominates NYFW finale: Layered luxury redefined

Michael Kors brought a sense of effortless glamour to the grand finale of New York Fashion Week, unveiling his Fall/Winter 2025 collection with a masterclass in layered luxury.  Known for his ability to seamlessly blend practicality with high fashion, Kors presented a collection that prioritized ease and movement, a philosophy he eloquently termed “throwaway chic,” or dégagé.  This collection wasn’t just about clothes; it was about a lifestyle, a feeling of confident sophistication without the stiffness.

“I love the idea of ease, comfort, mobility and movement,” Kors explained backstage. “Looking chic without being studied and stiff. And the French word for it is dégagé, which is, you know, throwaway chic. So, you’re definitely going to see what I like to say is warm modernism.”  This “warm modernism” permeated every aspect of the collection, from the rich color palette to the sumptuous fabrics and the fluid silhouettes.   

The runway showcased a symphony of layered looks, each piece designed to complement and enhance the others.  Draped wool coats cascaded over supple leather dresses, while flowing silk blouses whispered against the skin beneath tailored jackets.  These weren’t just layers for warmth; they were layers of texture, color, and movement, creating a dynamic visual experience as the models moved down the runway.  This approach to layering offered a fresh perspective on power dressing, moving away from the overtly revealing styles that have dominated recent seasons and embracing a more sensual, understated confidence.

“It’s actually a pretty covered-up show,” Kors noted, acknowledging the shift in the fashion landscape. “I think we’ve gone as naked as we can go. So maybe it’s time to cover up, but still feel powerful, sexy, but in a more sensual way so that when you move, movement is sexy. It’s, you know, things that catch the breeze when you walk. To me, that’s everything.”  This emphasis on movement was key to the collection’s success.  The clothes weren’t just beautiful to look at; they were designed to be lived in, to flow and sway with the wearer, creating a sense of effortless elegance.   

The color palette was a study in sophisticated neutrals and rich jewel tones.  Deep browns and caramels were juxtaposed with vibrant purples and emerald greens, all grounded by the timeless elegance of classic black.  Textures played a crucial role, adding depth and dimension to the layered looks.  Luxurious fabrics like cashmere, shearling, and silk took center stage, their inherent richness elevating each piece.  Intricate details, such as delicate pleating, subtle sequins, and handcrafted embellishments, added a touch of quiet luxury, hinting at the craftsmanship behind each garment.

Kors’ show provided a fittingly glamorous conclusion to a diverse and exciting New York Fashion Week.  This season showcased the breadth and creativity of American designers, with each collection offering a unique perspective on the future of fashion.  Other notable highlights included:

Carolina Herrera: Wes Gordon channeled the whimsical charm of the film “Being There,” presenting a collection of vibrant dresses adorned with oversized floral appliques, a playful yet sophisticated take on modern femininity.

Christian Siriano: Siriano drew inspiration from the sleek lines and metallic finishes of the automotive industry, resulting in a collection of structured silhouettes and shimmering fabrics, a fusion of fashion and industrial design.

Sergio Hudson:  Hudson’s collection was a poignant tribute to the victims of the Los Angeles wildfires, demonstrating resilience and strength through everyday pieces elevated with a haute couture sensibility. Denim pleated skirts and chunky cashmere knits were reimagined with exquisite tailoring and luxurious details.