On September 13th, Cynthia Rowley debuted it’s stunning SS23 collection in the brand’s signature fashion. The gorgeous show took place in Wagner Park, drawing celebrities and influencers alike for a first glance at the new collection on the beautiful breezy evening. We caught up with Cynthia Rowley herself to learn more about the new collection.
See also: Cynthia Rowley's Star-Studded SS23 Show Takes NYC By Storm
Tell me about the inspiration for this collection.
The SS23 collection stays true to the brand’s sport-meets-pretty ethos – experimenting with how to make these two ideas to co-exist is what differentiates us as a brand. Sporty references like rugby stripes, surfsuits, and utility pockets are seen throughout the collection. I’m also always inspired by NYC and the lifestyle & experiences it provides. Lastly, I am inspired by the way we have a very intergenerational brand. We have items that transcend to all age groups and I think it's really cool to see people of all ages in the same style.
Do you have a favorite piece from the collection? If so, which and why?
The sheer cargo pants were one of my favorites. Although we have been seeing cargo becoming more popular, I was able to make a version that represented our brand and I was super excited about the way they turned out. Secondly, the cape with the bonded pants and gold detailing- this was one of our past styles that we reimagined to make more modern.
Any stories behind any of the pieces?
Mixing sport with RTW is a major story of the collection – shiny material, sparkles, metallics, the color and the joy it brings especially after the pandemic. There were sequin embellishments on the chiffon dresses that came to points on the waistline. This design was inspired by the points on Lady Liberty's crown, which was in the distance at the end of the runway. I am always interested in how to bring new sport references into my designs. Bringing sports and fashion together has given me the freedom to experiment with new fabrics, silhouettes, texture and lots of color, which you can see in styles like the crinkle silver patent trousers, oversized organza shirts, and sequin crown embellishments on chalky neon chiffon.
How does NYC inform your designs?
NYC is my home. Every season New York City becomes the backdrop and inspiration for my collection. There’s a full lifestyle here and a variety of experiences, which always keeps me curious. You can surf an hour away from here and then attend a gallery opening in the same day! The access and multitude of experiences that NYC provides is how we end up with wetsuits and sheer tulle dresses in the same collection.
What's next for you?
To keep doing what I love to do! The All-Sport capsule is launching very soon. In addition to that, we have a few collaborations in the works so stay tuned! In an effort to be more sustainable, we have started to produce things in limited quantities and do more frequent drops that sell out quicker. We want to continue to experiment with this strategy, as it has proven to be successful.
What trends are you excited about this season?
All the sheer is great. It’s like wearing a swimsuit with a beautiful dress over it! I’m most excited for it because that’s where the two sides of our brand meets. We push the boundaries of sportwear – the All Sports collection is RTW too – it’s just a more fashionable alternative. Additionally, utilitarian/cargo has been one of my favorites too. We’ve incorporated it in the SS23 collection with silk taffeta – making it sexy and fashionable.
Photography by: Shane Drummond/BFA.com
