The Beauty of Spring 2026 NYFW

The runways in New York this season reminded me that beauty is about mood as much as it is about makeup. Designers sent models out with looks that felt fresh, daring, and often surprisingly wearable, the kind of inspiration you can bring straight into your own routine.

I saw plenty of naked faces, skin kept fresh with a natural glow that looked healthy and alive. Cheeks had that flushy, just back from a walk color, often in peachy or orange tones that felt warm and uplifting. Against that softness, some shows went the opposite way with dramatic eyeliner, sharp wings and bold shapes that gave a feline strength to otherwise minimal looks.

Lips had their own moment. Bold colors popped here and there, but what really stood out were the browns. From rich mocha to soft brownie nudes, these shades gave a confident and modern edge without overpowering the face.

And then there was the wet look. Dewy skin, glossy lids, and lips with a glassy shine created makeup that seemed alive under the lights and caught just enough reflection to feel new.

What I love about all this is how easy it is to try. A cream blush in a warm tone, a swipe of eyeliner a little bolder than usual, or a brown lipstick instead of your usual pink can bring a touch of runway into your everyday. If you are feeling adventurous, lean into gloss and glow and let your skin shine.

✨ I pulled together my favorite beauty products inspired by these NYFW looks so you can play with the trends in your own way.

The Belts Are Low

In New York this season I could not help but notice how belts are shifting down. Forget the cinched waist moment. Now they are sliding lower, resting on the hips and giving outfits a more relaxed, effortless vibe. I saw it not only on the runways but also in the streets of the city.

It is a small detail, but it changes the whole silhouette. A belt worn low lengthens the torso, softens the waistline, and adds a playful nod to the early 2000s. I saw it with denim, wide trousers, and even layered over dresses.

Some designers are even playing with two waistlines in one piece. One high up on the waist and another lower with belt loops at the hip, inviting you to choose how to wear it.

The beauty of this trend is that it is easy to try. You do not need a brand new belt. Just wear your favorite one a notch looser and let it fall naturally lower. Pair it with a crisp shirt tucked loosely, or with a simple tank and wide-leg pants, and suddenly the look feels modern again.

Belts are no longer just about function. They are about styling, layering, and attitude.

Bubble Hems Everywhere

I was in New York City for just one day of Fashion Week this season since a family emergency kept me from staying longer. Even in that short time, I could not ignore how strong the bubble hem trend is right now.

It was not just on the runways. It was in the streets. Dresses and skirts, but also shorts, pants, and even sleeves shaped with that playful rounded hemline. Bubble hems are bringing movement, volume, and a little drama to every part of the wardrobe and they clearly do not want to leave anytime soon.

Designers are showing them in crisp cottons, airy organza, and silky fabrics, while street style is embracing minis, maxis, and casual everyday versions. The versatility is what makes them so exciting. You can go bold with a sculptural skirt or keep it fun with a bubbled sleeve or shorts.

From what I saw in New York, this is a trend that is only expanding. Bubble hems are having their moment and it is a playful one worth trying.

✨ I selected my favorite bubble hem pieces so you can take this trend with you. Shop in the button below.

Melissa and I are so excited to be reunited for the first time since she moved from NYC to France in March. NYFW is the moment we look forward to all year, and this season is no different. I always come back from working backstage feeling like I can change the world, wanting to wear things I haven’t touched in ages and seeing everything with a fresh perspective. My heart beats faster just writing this.

Let me take you back to how I ended up at my very first backstage. Back when I was taking sewing and pattern design classes, my course was in the same building as the college-level fashion design program. Even though I wasn’t in college yet, I became friends with many of the students. One day they had a field trip to Rio Fashion Week, called Fashion Rio, and I somehow found my way to join them to watch an independent show.

When we arrived, I freaked out. I was so happy I could cry. I was pinching myself the whole time, in complete ecstasy just to be there. Walking through the space, I spotted a familiar face: a senior student named Ramon. He was wearing a shirt that said production. I asked, “You work here? What a dream, how did that happen?” He tossed a shirt at me and said, “Someone just dropped out, do you want to work with us?”

I didn’t even blink before saying yes. I lived hours away and didn’t have a license yet, but I knew I would find a way to make it work. That night when I got home, I woke my mom up to tell her what happened. I remember it so clearly. She called one of her best friends to ask if I could stay with them that week so I wouldn’t have to commute. Then she broke her piggy bank and gave me cash to support me in following my dream.

My mom is a humble woman who never came from money, but she has always believed in me and always did everything she could to help me chase my dreams. I wish I had more photos from that week, it was over a decade ago, before smartphones, and photos backstage were not allowed. I was so cautious not to ruin such an amazing opportunity.

That week was the spark that never went out in my heart. And today, here I am, getting ready to work at NYFW, still pinching myself. Thank you, Mom.

What would you love for us to share from NYFW? Brechós, street style, special finds from the city? Let us know in the comments. For this nugget there is no catalog, just story and inspiration.