Khaite Fall Winter 2024-25 Fashion Show

Cate Holstein's Fall Winter 2024 collection for Khaite wasn't just a fashion show; it was a journey inward. Reflecting a broader trend at NYFW, the collection delved into themes of self-reflection, memory, and finding peace in the present. Amidst a sea of designers exploring mental health and self-care, Holstein offered her own nuanced perspective.

For Holstein, a CFDA Women's Designer of the Year winner and a rising star facing the same challenges as many independent designers, this introspective journey translated into hauntingly beautiful garments. The mirrored runway served as a powerful symbol, forcing both models and audience to confront their own reflections. Silk gazar pieces and draped gowns captured fleeting moments, while a showstopping black gown, pinned and reworked on the spot, exemplified the ever-present element of chance and the need to embrace it.

Personal touches wove through the collection, from nods to her mother's glamorous style to the vulnerability inherent in any creative pursuit. Sculptural leather coats in bold silhouettes, signature Khaite pieces, were reimagined with playful details, while paperbag waist skirts and boxy tailoring offered new interpretations of familiar favorites. Luscious faux furs in unexpected colors like lipstick red added a touch of whimsy, and whisper-thin chiffon gowns floated down the runway like wisps of memory.

"The message was in the strength of vulnerability," Holstein explained. Having found "a point in life of actual calm, and happiness," she acknowledged the difficulty of embracing joy but ultimately encouraged us to "sit in happiness." This collection went beyond fashion, offering a glimpse into her personal journey and serving as a testament to the power of self-reflection. It reminded us that finding light amidst the shadows often lies in embracing our vulnerabilities and acknowledging the complexities of our inner landscapes.