Carolina Herrera celebrated the incredible milestone of 45 years of artistry, solidifying itself as one of the most important modern American brands. To celebrate, guests gathered at the David H. Koch theater at Lincoln Center for the brand’s runway show from Creative Director Wes Gordon. The space was filled with almost 30,000 yellow tulips. The collection considered the achievement and the relevance of the brand over time. Inspired by the history of Caroline Herrera, Gordon made the brand modern. 

The beginning of the collection mirrored a concept alluded to in his notes…“ladies who lunch.” With polka dots and a few pops of yellow, the looks are elegant and feminine. They increasingly get cooler, starting with a slip dress bearing “The New Yorker” logo. Next, models wear sunglasses and an unbuttoned blouse. There’s a development into modernity happening. 

What follows is a kaleidoscope of styles. It’s a special collection as it seems to have something for everyone. There’s florals, sequins, lace, bright pinks and sage, along with neutrals. There’s bows and ruffles but also tweeds and belted waists. Some styles are refined, others are allowed to be a little wild. Dresses come in midi styles, some with a shorter hem and others brushing the floor of the runway. Towards the end, the collection transitions into gowns. Evening gowns are a central theme within Carolina Herrera, a brand which continuously proves that they know the category. 

In partnering with The Andy Warhol Foundation, Taffin, and The New Yorker, the collection tied in pieces of its history throughout. Recalling 45 years of design, the runway was an honoring of Carolina Herrera’s legacy and a peek at what’s next.