You’re Invited To Meet NYFW’s Next Generation Of Designers

When you look at the traditional New York Fashion Week calendar, the barriers to entry aren’t a secret. Between massive production budgets, rigid legacy structures, and steep venue costs, incredible independent talent is too often priced out of fashion’s biggest stage. That’s why this season, Refinery29 is officially teaming up with RAISEFashion to shift the narrative.

On September 11, we’re co-hosting The Penthouse Edit at The Standard, East Village. It’s a full-day, high-impact showcase designed to put fashion’s most exciting emerging designers directly in front of the industry’s top buyers, editors, stylists, and power players.

What’s even better? It’s open to the public, and you’re invited too. To secure your spot on the guest list, RSVP directly at the following link.

This isn’t just another presentation; it’s a dedicated platform for sustainable growth and real equity in fashion. We’re spotlighting the need-to-know names spanning ready-to-wear, luxury accessories, and fine jewelry. Each one is proof that the industry’s next era is being built on craft, community, and fresh perspectives.

Moving the needle in fashion requires capital, space, and access. We’re taking over the venue’s crown-jewel top floor alongside a group of partners who understand the importance of supporting independent talent.

Afterpay is stepping up in a major way for fashion’s next generation, co-hosting the event and dropping dedicated funding initiatives to fuel growth this season. Crown Royal is keeping the drinks flowing and awarding its own production grant during our VIP September 10th kickoff cocktail hour. (Bonus: You can shop the limited-edition Crown Royal x Juicy Couture capsule right on site, with proceeds going straight into the grant fund.) To top it off, we’re hosting an on-site shop featuring talent from Victoria’s Secret’s Runway to Revenue accelerator, giving you a chance to shop fashion’s next wave before everyone else.

Each of the names below is proof that the industry’s next era is being built on community. Get to know the designers shaping the next generation below, and stay tuned as we bring you exclusive insider coverage straight from The Penthouse Edit.

Almasika

Founded by Catherine Sarr, ALMASIKA transforms global heritage into a distinct language of fine jewelry. Drawing from years in the luxury diamond sector—including pivotal time at De Beers—Sarr leverages sculptural forms and noble materials to create symbolic, heirloom-quality pieces rooted in universal human connection.

Campillo

Designed by Patricio Campillo, Campillo reimagines traditional Mexican tailoring through a modern, artisanal lens. Deeply influenced by charrería culture and the rugged landscapes of Central Mexico, the brand fuses structured outerwear, raw leatherwork, and precise silhouettes to offer a fresh perspective on contemporary menswear and gender-fluid design.

Diarrablu

Created by Diarra Bousso, Diarrablu seamlessly bridges mathematical algorithms and West African craftsmanship. Designed and produced in Dakar, Senegal, the brand is celebrated for its conscious approach to resortwear, utilizing custom geometric prints, versatile wrap silhouettes, and sustainable production models that minimize waste.

Esenshel

Helmed by designer Eugene Taylor, Esenshel is a New York–based headwear and accessories brand redefining modern millinery. Known for its avant-garde proportions, fluid sculptural shapes, and architectural brims, the label challenges traditional hat-making techniques to deliver statement pieces that double as wearable art.

Gwen Beloti

Built on the principle of inclusive luxury, Gwen Beloti crafts timeless, accessible fine jewelry tailored for everyday wear. Based in New York, Beloti prioritizes precise sizing, high-quality gold-filled finishings, and minimalist silhouettes that elevate personal styling while celebrating self-expression.

K.ngsley

Founded by Kingsley Gbadegesin, K.NGSLEY is an activist-driven fashion brand known for its distinctive cut-out tanks, subverted basics, and body-conscious silhouettes. Rooted in Black, Queer, and Trans liberation, the label blends high-fashion construction with nightlife culture to create powerful, gender-inclusive ready-to-wear.

Le Blanc Studios

Co-founded by Angelo and Yamil Le Blanc, Le Blanc Studios is a Dominican-rooted streetwear and ready-to-wear label that channels Caribbean heritage into refined urban apparel. Blending military-inspired utility, historical narratives, and structural tailoring, the brand offers a sophisticated commentary on identity and movement.

McKenzie Liataud

Fine jewelry designer McKenzie Liautaud creates balance-minded, artisanal pieces that harmonize global travel with geometric elegance. Utilizing ethically sourced precious stones, pearls, and precious metals, Liautaud’s handcrafted talismans are designed to bring clarity, protection, and refined beauty to the modern collector.

Oleada

Co-founded by Tiffany Zhou and Tracy Luo, OLEADA designs functional luxury handbags for modern professional women. Combining architectural shapes with utilitarian features—such as laptop compartments, convertible straps, and durable recycled leathers—the brand crafts sleek, timeless leather goods engineered for modern travel and daily commutes.

Vontélle

Founded by Tracy Vontélle Green and Nikkia LeFevre, Vontélle creates bold, culturally inspired eyewear designed to fit broader facial structures and diverse bridge fits. Featuring vibrant African, Caribbean, and Latinx textiles embedded directly into handcrafted acetate frames, the brand delivers fashion-forward prescription and sunwear solutions.

Yesaet

Founded by Hswen Tesfamichael, Yesaet is an eco-conscious luxury label rooted in Ethiopian heritage and craft traditions. Made locally in New York using handwoven Ethiopian cottons and sustainable silk blends, the brand offers fluid, effortless silhouettes that celebrate slow fashion and generational craftsmanship.

Zut

Designed by Pierre-Antoine Vacheron, Zut is a contemporary accessories and footwear label recognized for its sculptural leathergoods and unconventional craftsmanship. Striking a balance between raw textures, architectural geometry, and Parisian elegance, Zut delivers subtle yet striking accents designed for the discerning minimalist.

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Copenhagen Just Made Camo Bermudas Cool Again

Copenhagen's Wacky Shoe Trend Is All About Big Toe

Copenhagen’s Wacky Shoe Trend Is All About The Big Toe

Copenhagen Fashion Week has unofficially commenced the Fashion Month season with Spring/Summer 2027 collections and lots of striking street style. From elevated chain headwear and cargo Bermuda shorts to layered, undone hairstyles, there are tons of style ideas to take from the showgoers.

But the one viral style currently on everyone’s lips (likely on wide-eyed, jaw-dropped faces) is the new Havaianas kitten heel flip-flops, notably with big-toe caps. After being teased on the Brazilian brand’s socials, the statement sandals debuted on the Studio Constance runway on August 4. But because every brand makes heeled flip flops now, it seems that Havaianas really wanted to stand out from the rest, hence the not-so-typical concealed big toe design.

The wacky shoe of the moment is constantly evolving, from Maison Margiela’s split-toe Tabi flat revival to Tory Burch’s metal-pierced mules to Vibram’s FiveFinger utilitarian shoes. And somehow, someway, Copenhagen’s fashion It-girls are already wearing styles similar to the viral Havaianas. (Plus, just before writing this, I spotted toe-covered flip flops on the NYC subway.)

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – AUGUST 04: A model walks the runway during the Studio Constance show at Copenhagen Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2027 on August 04, 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Matt Jelonek/Getty Images)

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – AUGUST 04: A model walks the runway during the Studio Constance show at Copenhagen Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2027 on August 04, 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Matt Jelonek/Getty Images)

The Copenhagen street style outfits have predominantly consisted of trendy toe-ring sandals, unique peep-toe heels, and woven-fabric flats that each give peeks of summer pedicures. So maybe the solution to transitional-weather dressing — whether it’s from the summer into the fall or the winter into the spring — is not a standard flip flop or boot, but rather keeping a toe or two covered.

And wouldn’t you know it… even before Collina Strada’s Copenhagen debut on August 6, which had models strutting in cut-out toe socks in place of shoes, many runway attendees have already been pairing similar socks with their thong sandals or Havaianas flip flops. So, if the toe-cap styles are too avant-garde for you, consider DIYing socks into a faux leg-warmer look for the changing weather.  

Since the Havaianas heels aren’t available to purchase yet, shop alternatives for big-toe covered shoes, from funky cut-out heels and toe-ring sandals to strappy mules in the meantime.

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Refinery29 Loves: Our Favorite Fashion & Beauty Buys From July

Welcome to Refinery29 Loves, the monthly news bulletin where you’ll find the best things to shop and see in fashion and beauty right now.

Whether you love or hate the heat, you’ll either be sad or glad to hear that summer's final stretch is officially here. Whether you're squeezing in one last beach weekend, gearing up for a busy travel month, or simply trying to survive another heat wave, there's still plenty of joy to be found in a great new warm-weather purchase. Which brings us to the latest edition of R29 Loves, our monthly roundup of the fashion and beauty launches lighting up our editors' group chats and order histories.

This month's assortment is all about pieces that make the season feel a little easier — breathable wardrobe tanks, humidity-resistant hair care, and of course, everyday luxuries worth treating yourself to. Ahead, discover the fashion and beauty finds that made our month (and are guaranteed to earn a spot in your next online haul, too).

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Beyond Yoga Glowzone Strappy Cropped Tank 

"Beyond Yoga has been a go-to of mine for years — the brand's signature Spacedye fabric is unbelievably soft and comfortable, yet still perfect for yoga (obviously) and other low-impact workouts. The brand recently unveiled its Glowzone collection of higher-performance sports bras, tops, and bottoms, but my favorite piece has to be this strappy cropped tank. (Unsurprisingly, my favorite Beyond Yoga item of all time is the Spacedye Cropped Tank, so this wasn't a total shocker.) 
  
The Glowzone fabric is completely different from the brand's signature Spacedye knit: It's sweat-wicking and offers light-to-moderate compression, but like all Beyond Yoga pieces, it transitions seamlessly from the studio to the street. I've been wearing my chocolate-brown tank with everything from flowy linen pants to denim shorts, and somehow it works with all of it." — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Beauty Writer

Beyond Yoga glowzone Strappy Cropped Tank, $, available at Beyond Yoga

Refy Blur Liner in Clay

"I love a soft, blurred lip, and Refy’s Blur Liners are some of the prettiest in my collection. However, the brand has absolutely outdone itself with its newest shade, Clay. The latest permanent addition is a stunning toasted red-brown that's the perfect "my lips but better" shade on my medium olive skin. Despite its diffused matte finish, it's surprisingly creamy and glides on without skipping. I love using it to slightly overline the center of my upper and lower lips before blending it out with clean fingers. (Sometimes, I'll top it with a caramel gloss like MAC's Lipglass Air in Instinct for a hint of sparkle-free shine.) With fall only a few weeks away, I already know this is going to live in my purse as my new go-to autumn lip shade." — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Beauty Writer

REFY Lip Blur in Clay, $, available at REFY

K18 FutureIQ biomimetic hair longevity serum

"K18 is associated with protecting the hair you already have, with its Molecular Repair Oil known the world over for its ability to fuse broken bonds back together, taking parched, damaged hair and making it feel brand new again. But its new Longevity Serum is making a name for itself as a product designed for the scalp, specifically to encourage hair growth. Applied directly to the scalp, the star ingredients are antioxidants, which protect the hair and scalp against damaging environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution, as well as peptides, which boost collagen and improve circulation, encouraging hair follicles to wake up. K18 claims that after one month, you'll notice reduced hair fall, and after two months, up to 10,000 new hairs for more volume, based on results from a 12-week clinical study. I've only just started using mine, but I have high hopes, and all my beauty editor peers can't stop talking about it." — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director 

K18 FutureIQ™ biomimetic hair longevity serum, $, available at K18

Lululemon Swiftly Cami Tank Top 

"I've accumulated quite the collection of Lululemon Swiftly tops, but there's a reason it still never feels like enough: The breezy, featherlight fabric is unmatched for my sweatiest, toughest workouts, yet it's also cute enough to wear while running errands. I own a rainbow of styles — tanks, short sleeves, and long sleeves — and last month, I added the new Swiftly Cami to my collection in a versatile white colorway. It's quickly become my favorite layering piece, pairing perfectly with everything from running shorts to leggings. I especially love wearing it over a sports bra for a pop of color that peeks through underneath and across the open back. And like every Swiftly style, it's incredibly heat-wave friendly, making it a no-brainer during the summer." — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Beauty Writer 

Lululemon Swiftly Cami Tank Top, $, available at Lululemon

Tatcha The Matcha Foam Cleanse

"A hill I will die on is that foaming cleansers deserve more love. I have very oily skin and wear a lot of makeup and sunscreen, so I need something that’s going to cut through all those layers without stripping my skin of moisture. And this new cleanser from Tatcha is it. It’s a gel that transforms into a silky, mousse-like foam on contact with water, lifting away stubborn mascara and foundation without leaving my skin feeling like it might crack afterward. That’s thanks to deeply moisturizing glycerin, which is the second ingredient on the INCI list. A tiny squeeze goes a long way." — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director 

Tatcha The Matcha Foam Cleanse, $, available at Tatcha

Aveda One For All Leave-In Elixir

"If you're looking for a featherlight leave-in conditioner that doesn't scrimp on nourishing, gloss-giving ingredients, this is it. A duo of moringa and jojoba oils smooths down split, fluffy ends, while glycerin draws moisture from the air and shuttles it inside hair strands, reducing frizz and flyaways. It performs like a replenishing hair oil, all without weighing down strands. Plus, thanks to the patchouli and vanilla, it smells amazing." — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director 

Aveda One For All Leave-In Elixir, $, available at Aveda

Aquaphor Hydrating Daily Body Lotion

"I'm never too far from Aquaphor's Healing Ointment, which I use on my lips, eyelids, and cuticles, so I was excited to hear the brand is making its first foray into body care. Admittedly, I'm too lazy to moisturize all over, but the sound of this lightweight Hydrating Daily Lotion is enough to convince me. Hydrating hyaluronic acid and deeply moisturizing glycerin are non-negotiables, but there are also three different types of ceramides, which act like glue between skin cells, keeping them intact, soft, and healthy. Scaly limbs? Where? It sinks in at lightning speed, making it enjoyable to use rather than feeling like a chore." — Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Director 

Aquaphor Hydrating Daily Body Lotion Unscented, $, available at Target

Bubble Cosmic Rain Hydrating Mist

"I’m an outspoken fan of Bubble’s Cosmic Silk milky toner, but its new Cosmic Rain hydrating mist, intended to work with the toner as a dewy duo, is just as impressive. The dermatologist-developed product definitely has a more medicated scent and thicker consistency than my usual Bubble suspects but that’s because it includes tons of hardworking ingredients like moisturizing aquaxyl, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and repairing ceramides to get deep into the skin for a plumper, smoother look and feel. You can use it in many ways, but I like it as a last step in my nighttime skincare routine to wake up feeling hydrated and looking noticeably dewier." — Victoria Montalti, Senior Fashion Commerce Writer

Bubble Cosmic Rain Hydrating Face Mist, $, available at Ulta Beauty

Jimmy Fairly The Luz

"Oversized aviators have become my personality. Lately, I've been thinking about splurging on Phoebe Philo's Bombe style, but they're always sold out. Luckily, I found a chic alternative that's practically one-tenth of the price. If you haven't heard of Jimmy Fairly, you need to add the name to your sartorial lexicon, ASAP. The label makes high-quality, ultra-cute sunnies without the designer price tag. I added The Luz to my collection and haven't stopped wearing them since. The green shade has this old-money vibe that reminds me of vintage Rolex ads. But I'm thinking about adding the tortoiseshell option to my collection, too." — Alexis Bennett Parker, Director of Shopping Partnerships 

Jimmy Fairly The Luz, $, available at Jimmy Fairly

Persol PO1030V - Luc Gold Plated

"In celebration of Persol’s new Riviera collection (and the glasses brand sponsoring Brooklyn Bridge Park’s summer Movies With A View series), I was able to pick out a pair of the Italian-inspired designs to watch The Talented Mr. Ripley in front of the NYC skyline. I chose these nostalgic blue-lens eyeglasses inspired by the Italian Riviera, and haven’t stopped wearing them since, styling them with everything from linen sets to Y2K-esque outfits." — Victoria Montalti, Senior Fashion Commerce Writer 

Persol PO1030V - Luc Gold Plated, $, available at Persol

Eberjey x The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Inez Washable Silk Printed Long PJ Set

"I’m a big fan of Eberjey’s washable silk pajamas because I’m a hot sleeper, and this material is so soft, cooling, and comfortable. Last month, for the luxe PJ brand’s 30th anniversary, it teamed up with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection on a capsule collection of serene sets. I opted for the pant set in the wave-inspired print and am looking forward to wearing it into the colder months and packing on trips for a luxurious touch to my hotel stays." — Victoria Montalti, Senior Fashion Commerce Writer 

Eberjey x The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Inez Washable Silk Printed Long PJ Set, $, available at Eberjey

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Influencer Haley Baylee Takes Us Inside Old Navy’s Campaign & Fall Denim Collection

Coming off the back of a star-studded summer campaign with Paris Hilton, Ciara Miller, and Rob Rausch, Old Navy has brought back the iconic “It’s Old Navy” series for fall. And with a statement cast of Cardi B, Paloma Elsesser, Brooks Nader, Quenlin Blackwell, Haley Baylee, and Wisdom Kaye, we’re hooked again. The celebrities, models, and influencers showcase the fall’s “Most-Wanted Denim” lineup in a cinematic Wild West video full of drama and humor, officially debuting on August 5.

“This campaign celebrates the enduring spirit of American denim with bold silhouettes, bold personalities, unmistakable style, and the belief that everyone deserves great denim at an incredible value,” said Old Navy’s chief creative officer Zac Posen in a press release.

Highlighting curves and volume, the lineup includes the all-new Arc Jean, which is the brand’s modern approach to a barrel style, plus returning favorites like the High-Rise Wide Leg, Baggy Barrel, and Low-Rise Baggy Jeans starting as low as $22. (So if you didn’t get your hands on the viral Hailey Bieber’s Gap jeans… this is your next best chance to update your denim collection with celebrity-approved styles.)

To go behind the scenes of the campaign, Refinery29 spoke to Haley Baylee (aka Haley Kalil). You likely know the influencer and model from her satirical TikToks, Glambot red carpet videos, Sports Illustrated photoshoots, or the TIME100’s Creators list. And now, she’s in her first-ever Old Navy campaign, so she’s sharing her longtime love of the brand, experience on set, favorite denim style, and how she’s styling it for fall. Read the full interview and shop Old Navy styles ahead.

Refinery29: How does it feel to star in an Old Navy campaign? Have you been a longtime fan of Old Navy? Did you wear it as a child?

HK: Oh yeah. I mean, I grew up, not to put an age on myself, but I’m 33, so I grew up watching Old Navy campaigns play on my TV! And they were always so iconic. They had this iconic celebrity of the moment. It was always fun and bright and cool.

It’s where I got all my sweaters from when I went to school. It’s like you knew that school was starting when you’d see the Old Navy sweater and jean campaigns drop for fall. I grew up watching Old Navy campaigns, grew up idolizing Old Navy, grew up wearing Old Navy. So now to see myself in a campaign with somebody like Cardi B… I mean, it’s insane. It’s actually insane.

R29: Is there a specific Old Navy piece you remember having as a child? Was there a specific sweater design you loved?

HK: I had this bright blue sweater. I could probably find me in it. I’ll have to ask my mom because I’m actually at my mom’s house right now. But it was this bright blue sweater with a collar that was a little thicker, and it had stripes on it. And I was obsessed with it. I wore it all the time.

R29: You mentioned Cardi. It’s a very star-studded campaign. Was there anyone in particular you were really excited to meet or work with on the campaign?

HK: I’m obsessed with Cardi, of course. She was the number one, because not only is she beautiful, but she’s hilarious. But I’ve known Wisdom for quite a long time. So Wisdom and I have worked together on projects before, and I was excited to work with him again. And then I had never met Quen before. I was really excited to meet Quen because I watch her cooking show and I think she’s such a baddie. So I was just really excited to work with her. She’s fantastic.

R29: Did you have a favorite part of shooting the campaign?

HK: During the campaign, they had Wisdom and I in a scene together where we were running back and forth, stealing the jeans from this small little window like Bonnie and Clyde. And we just had a blast. We were in there, we were yapping inside and they’d be like: “Action.” And we’d run out, we’d grab the jeans, then we’d run back inside. We’d yap with each other in there. It was just fun. It felt like you were a kid on set.

R29: The fall collection highlights a lot of new and updated denim styles. Were there any that were your favorite silhouette, and why?

HK: Oh, the baggy. Definitely, definitely the low-rise baggy. If you see any of my content, you know that I’m usually in low rise. It just fits my body better. It also just feels like you’re wearing pajamas. These were the perfect low rise because they don’t come up too high. Some people make a low rise and they’re not actually low rise; they’re like mid-rise. And I’m like: “No, it’s not hitting on the hips!” This one is an actual low rise. And if you want the really, really intense boyfriend fit, just size up. When I was doing my fitting, I sized up and it was the perfect amount of baggy.

R29: Do you have any tips for styling low-rise jeans? What tops do you like to pair them with?

HK: It really depends on your personal style. Mine is a mix, I would say, between sometimes a little feminine, but I prefer to be a little more boyish in the way that I dress. So if I’m just feeling like I want to drown in my clothes, which I love, I’ll do a big baggy T-shirt, like a graphic tee. And then I’ll do a baggy jean, maybe a little belt, and you could tuck a part of the shirt in if you wanted to.

Or I love a cropped tank top with a low-rise baggy jean so that you have a little distance between the pant and the end of the top. It’s enough to showcase your figure while still being comfortable.

R29: What is your go-to fall outfit formula?

HK: Ooh, again, I’m such a comfy person. I just like being comfy. I feel like clothes that are too tight can overstimulate me. I’ll start picking at them and playing with them, and then I’ll just want to go home and change. So, finding the balance between fashion and comfort has been something that I’m still obviously trying to navigate. As you see, I wear a lot of sweatpants when I’m filming.

But I think it’s the low-rise baggy jeans because then they’re not tight on your skin paired with a really nice boot. I think that that can always elevate it. And then a really, really nice leather jacket. I love a leather jacket that’s a little bit tight in the waist, but a little baggy on the sleeves and shoulders. So then you get that really pretty triangular fit, and then your baggy pants add the volume on the bottom again. It just looks really nice. It also makes you look tall!

R29: As a fashion girlie, you’re very into really bold statements. Which fashion trend are you excited to try for the fall season?

HK: It’s crazy. I never thought that this would come back, but I guess fashion is all circular. All of the stuff that I wore when I was a kid is coming back around. You’re getting the jellies, you’re getting the baby doll tops. When I saw that 2016 triangle bikini on Love Island, I was like: “Oh my gosh, it’s all coming back.” All the things that I used to wear, like the Juicy Couture tracksuits, the Uggs… that kind of mall culture-y vibe is coming back. And I’m stoked because I have some vintage pieces from then that I’m really excited to whip out of my closet.

My mom used to always tell me: “If you keep things long enough, they will come back into style.” And I used to not believe her because I was like: “What do you mean? Style’s always going to be improving.” No, it all comes back around… just in a little bit of a different way. So it’s really fun to see. And I’m like: “Oh, I know how to dress like this because I dressed like this when I was 14!”

Shop Old Navy jeans

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