New York fashion has always been a blend of iconic styles, from the skyscraper heels of Carrie Bradshaw to the edgy downtown vibes. However, for many, the preppy-with-a-twist aesthetic championed by Jenna Lyons at J.Crew stands as a hallmark of the city’s style.
Jenna’s approach to fashion is timeless, offering chic, polished looks with a bit of quirky personality. The J.Crew AW15 collection was a perfect representation of this, filled with statement pieces and styling tips that have made the brand a staple in both the U.S. and abroad. In fact, the opening of J.Crew’s fifth store in London later this week proves just how influential the brand has become.
During the show, Jenna shared some beauty tips with the crowd, revealing the secret to her perfect selfies: “Get a Lumee case – it lights up to create a flash. It changed my life! Then a filter or two and you’re done.” Simple but effective, it’s no wonder she’s become a style and beauty icon.
This season, Jenna’s focus was on bringing back a sense of fun and sparkle to fashion. “We really wanted back the idea of sparkle,” she said, noting how the trend had quieted down in recent years. Her designs featured vibrant sequin layers, reflective of Truman Capote’s elegance but reimagined with modern flair. From canary yellow fur-lined jackets to psychedelic sequin jackets and glittery tassel skirts, the collection embraced a playful, lighthearted vibe.
“Backstage before the show, the models asked me, ‘are we allowed to smile?'” Jenna recalls, adding, “And I was like, ‘Oh my God, please do.’ It’s fashion – it’s meant to be light and fun – and especially in this weather, who doesn’t need that?” The show encapsulated a sense of joy and creativity, reminding us that fashion doesn’t have to be too serious to be stunning.
