Since taking the helm at Kate Spade New York a year ago, creative director Nicola Glass has embraced the philosophy of ‘optimistic femininity’, and her Spring 2020 collection didn’t fail to deliver on that promise. She spoke of “blossoming wherever you’re planted”, a message of hope in a time when it often feels otherwise.
Set in the secluded Elizabeth Street Garden in Nolita, the collection was inspired by the idea of an urban safari. Hued in the classic colours of army green and khaki, safari suits and trench coats were reimagined with a feminine touch. Breaking up the standard-issue basics were breezy silhouettes in vibrant prints. Of course, florals for spring are hardly ground-breaking, but here they were rendered in more unconventional shades like burgundy and burnt orange. Meanwhile, crochet pieces and brightly-coloured tweed added texture to the botanical collection.
Accessories are the bread-and-butter of Kate Spade, and this season there were oversized totes in the signature spade pattern mixed with structured crossbody bags crafted in wicker and raffia. An elephant-shaped purse added a playful touch in line with the brand’s youthful aesthetic.
Diversity in casting reflected the drive for greater inclusivity in fashion. Models of all ages and body types walked the gravel-paved runway, along with influencers and actresses including Vanessa Hong and Debi Mazar, and artists like filmmaker Celia Rowlson Hall and writer Karley Sciortino. Glass wanted customers to identify with the women walking, underlining the fact that Kate Spade is made for ‘real’ women.
The Spring 2020 show welcomed stars like Sadie Sink, Emma Roberts, Anna Kendrick, and Julia Garner, all dressed in the latest Kate Spade designs (naturally).
Check out all the looks below:
