Collina Strada's 'Detour' to Storm King Art Center Redefines NYFW with Live Music and Outdoor Runway

Key points

• The show took place at Storm King Art Center, 58 miles north of Manhattan, with attendees transported via chartered buses from SoHo.
• Carly Rae Jepsen closed the show with a live performance of 'Cut to the Feeling,' followed by an impromptu dance party involving models and audience members.
• The 'Detour' collection featured exaggerated silhouettes, ruffles, and pastels, inspired by medieval and Renaissance themes, including a reference to the film 'A Knight's Tale.'
• The event included brand collaborations, such as a home goods line with Swedish brand Layered and a new Converse Chuck Taylor Plié silhouette.
• More than 400 people attended the show, which included a functioning margarita fountain and a pop-up coffee shop by Blank Street.

Background

Collina Strada has previously staged shows in gardens and parks, but this was its first collaboration with a major art museum. The event occurred during New York Fashion Week, which ended on Tuesday, amid other controversies such as the CFDA CEO's intervention at the COS show. The brand has relied on partnerships to sustain its business model in 2026.

How outlets are covering it

The Washington Post praised the show as a 'palate cleanser' from the ickiness of Fashion Week, highlighting its cheerful and inviting atmosphere. Vanity Fair noted that the location divided the industry, with some senior leaders absent due to the travel commitment, while others praised Taymour's world-building. WWD emphasized the practical logic behind the collection, noting Taymour's focus on comfort and customer needs. Dazed described the show as 'whimsymaxxing,' highlighting the sun-soaked, midsommar-esque energy and the consensus among guests that the trip was worth it.

Why it matters

The show demonstrated that fashion events can transcend traditional runway formats by integrating art, music, and outdoor experiences. It also highlighted the growing trend of Renaissance-inspired fashion and the importance of brand collaborations in sustaining independent designers. The event's success, despite logistical challenges, suggests a shift in how fashion weeks can be experienced and attended.

What to watch

The Converse x Collina Strada Chuck Taylor Plié is set for a global launch on December 3. Taymour has expressed hope that her royalty provision with Converse will set a precedent for other designers. The brand will continue to explore new collaborations and events, aiming to create moments that excite audiences and push the boundaries of fashion shows.