Vogue100 and Moda Operandi Hosted a Salon Presentation Straight From the Fall 2022 Runways

To close out New York Fashion Week, Vogue’s Chioma Nnadi and Lauren Santo Domingo of Moda Operandi curated an exclusive selection of fall 2022 looks for an intimate conversation about all things fashion with Vogue100. The morning kicked off with a beautiful breakfast on the 63rd floor of downtown Manhattan’s most sought-after restaurant, SAGA. The sky-high establishment by James Kent and Jeff Katz is only open for dinner, but the duo made an exception to host an exclusive breakfast in the Art Deco-designed space for Vogue.

The menu prepared by Kent and the executive pastry chef Renata Ameni included a delicious array of fresh patisserie, yogurt parfait with brown butter granola, followed by a savory frittata with smoked salmon topped with espuma and chives. Between breakfast and the salon-style presentation, guests enjoyed panoramic views of the city out on the open-air terraces. Even on a below-freezing February morning, the skyline sights set an energetic tone to wrap up NYFW. Inside, guests admired a collection of fine works by the likes of Jean-Michel Basquiat and Victor Vasarely, to name a few. 

Of course, the opening look from Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez’s Proenza Schouler show started the fall 2022 presentation off on an elegant stride. The billowing, black and white number is nothing short of a showstopper. “I’ve known the Proenza Schouler boys since early stages of their brand,” Santo Domingo began. “After a highly acclaimed debut in 2003, I remember my boss at the time tasking me with getting the designers on the phone for a walkthrough, and they still have my voicemail from Anna Wintour’s office saved to this day.”

Designed by the mother and daughter duo behind House of Aama, a cherub printed pantsuit ensemble offered guests a playful and inspired take on a sophisticated silhouette from an emerging brand to watch. Other major highlights include a set of celestial-inspired mini-dresses from Zimmermann that feel flirty and festive for any occasion. Alternatively, the Nili Lotan camel trench coat paired with a matching turtleneck tucked into shorts offered a quintessential example of must-have foundation pieces for fall. 

“It’s so important to have timeless basics in your wardrobe that you’re excited to jump back into year after year,” Santo Domingo explained. On that note, Brandon Maxwell’s black pleated tulle skirt matched with a brown suede moto jacket epitomized the idea of a modern-day woman on the go, one that feels both polished and understated. 

Up next, a quilted robe coat with a vintage feel designed by Alexandra O’Neill of Markarian was a spotlight piece for Santo Domingo. As was the sparkly Khaite skirt styled with an edgy leather bomber jacket; another essential outwear piece that can easily dress up or down any look. Speaking of glittery finds, the red hot sequined LaQuan Smith coat paired with a cut-out jumpsuit proved that taking a risk can pay off. 

 “I can’t believe this LaQuan Smith look was on the runway last night,” Nnadi smiled. “It’s incredible that we are able to see this statement sequin coat up close like this just hours after the show.” 

Backstage, New York native Noor Alali styled each look with ease while beauty guru Kaori Chloe Soda ensured every model walked out with a fresh face. As for hair, Takao Hayashi worked his magic, styling a soft updo to complement the major looks. 

A gorgeous gown from Carolina Herrera closed the salon-style show with grace. The yellow bustier number with a voluminous train effortlessly weaved through seated guests and around the panelists with poise as Santo Domingo spoke to the heritage of the iconic brand. What a fitting way to end such an inspiring morning with industry tastemakers and fashion lovers alike.