NEW YORK — Designer Christian Siriano unveiled his latest collection at New York Fashion Week, drawing inspiration from his passion for automobiles shared with his father. Models showcased the collection on a runway adorned with rose beds and a striking red and black Toyota, as fashion enthusiasts captured the moment on their phones. Siriano emphasized that he aimed to adopt a feminine and glamorous approach, moving away from the traditionally masculine aesthetic often tied to cars. The designer noted, “The lines of a car to me look like the lines of a corset.”
With a blend of playful elements, the collection featured fabrics that echoed automotive design. Models walked energetically to upbeat techno music, wearing outfits crafted from jersey material designed to mimic oil slicks, complete with embroidery resembling tire tracks and bell-bottoms lined with a pattern reminiscent of tire leather. “I was like, who doesn’t love that iconic, sexy red car? But who doesn’t love that iconic, sexy red dress? And how do they kind of go together?” he remarked.
Striking a balance between masculine and feminine designs, well-known Siriano model Coco Rocha presented a mini dress combining a black tuxedo blazer with luxurious red fabric cascading down one leg, perfectly coordinated with the parked Toyota. True to Siriano’s inclusive vision, models of various sizes and genders graced the catwalk, including male models sporting cropped jackets paired with wide-legged trousers that showcased their toned physiques.
Before the show commenced, singer Adam Lambert arrived dressed in a dark brown longline blazer coat designed by Siriano. The front row buzzed with excitement, as actors and other celebrities cheered for their favorite pieces. Katie Holmes was seen nestled between Julianne Hough and Whoopi Goldberg, while actress Tiffany Haddish expressed how she felt nothing less than beautiful in all of Siriano’s designs. Bravo star Bronwyn Newport also made her presence felt, donning a pastel pink tulle dress from a previous collection, and declared, “I wanted every look.”
The Chelsea venue underwent a transformation, with red dominating the space through draped walls, gift bags, and a plush red carpet. Siriano, known for his captivating red carpet creations, has built a reputation for advocating body positivity and inclusivity in his designs. Laverne Cox praised him, stating, “Over the years, as my body has changed, Christian has always been supportive and had something fabulous for me to wear,” reflecting his adaptability as a designer.
Among his notable achievements, Siriano famously crafted a stunning velvety tuxedo ball gown for actor Billy Porter at the 2019 Oscars, and has authored a book titled “Christian Siriano: The New Red Carpet.” As the show came to a crescendo, the musical atmosphere shifted to violin and melodic tunes, culminating with models featuring evening gowns striking poses near the Toyota before gracefully exiting the runway.
In addition to his fashion endeavors, Siriano is committed to philanthropy. He mentioned his efforts to support those affected by recent wildfires in Los Angeles, noting that he raised funds by selling his own artwork and donating proceeds from ticket sales to the benefit. “We had people buy tickets that aren’t even attending, which was so wonderful,” he shared, emphasizing that clothing donations were not the primary focus of his initiative.
