Vintage 60’s Funk
Designer Karen Walker brought a playful and nostalgic energy to New York Fashion Week with her S/S 2016 Ready To Wear collection. The overall vibe leaned heavily into the 1960’s, embracing loose-fitting silhouettes, effortless layering, and a sense of laid-back cool. Each piece combined comfort with style, creating a collection that felt both wearable and fashion-forward.
Metallic Fabrics and Texture Play
One of the standout features of the collection was the use of metallic fabrics. Shimmering textures caught the light with every movement, giving the garments a lively, futuristic edge while still honoring the retro inspiration. Acid wash denim added a casual, rebellious touch to the otherwise glamorous pieces, creating a perfect tension between shine and street-ready style.
Silhouettes and Styling
Silhouettes were relaxed and flowing, with loose trousers, oversized tops, and playful dresses that encouraged movement. Layering was key, combining different textures and finishes to create visual depth and interest. Styling embraced the vintage theme with minimal accessories, letting the fabrics, textures, and cuts take center stage. Hair and makeup were kept fresh and understated to complement the 60’s-inspired aesthetic without overpowering it.
Color and Attitude
The color palette was eclectic but cohesive, mixing muted neutrals with bold metallics and pops of classic acid wash blue. There was a subtle sense of rebellion and carefree attitude running through the collection, making it feel youthful, vibrant, and unapologetically fun.
Credits
Designer: Karen Walker
Collection: Ready To Wear S/S 2016
Event: New York Fashion Week
Highlights: 60’s-inspired silhouettes, metallic fabrics, acid wash denim, playful layering
Styling Notes: Minimal accessories, understated hair and makeup
Karen Walker’s S/S 2016 collection successfully fused retro 60’s style with contemporary energy, delivering a playful and effortlessly cool runway presentation at NYFW.
See the Karen Walker S/S 2016 collection below:
