COTERIE SS26 Editorial 1_Better Contemporary Copy

Discover the dreamy, ethereal designs and quiet, artisanal aesthetic set to woo buyers and define an especially stylish season.

Explore exquisite new Better Contemporary trends at the September 2025 edition of COTERIE New York. In anticipation of the SS26 season, we’re shining the spotlight on two trends sourced from Fashion by Informa’s SS26 Women’s Advanced Contemporary and Women’s Contemporary Buyer’s Guides centered on beautiful craftsmanship, colors, and silhouettes: Avant Craft and Elemental Flow. Read on to get an exclusive market overview and a closer look at two of the top trends for SS26.

THE SS26 BETTER CONTEMPORARY MARKET AT A GLANCE

For SS26, the Better Contemporary market is leaning into classic, luxurious pieces that emphasize fine craftsmanship and pieces with longevity. “I’m excited to see how the contemporary and advanced contemporary marketplace continues to evolve, blending innovation with timeless style,” says Purvi Kanji, vice president of COTERIE. “We’re seeing a dynamic shift towards sustainability, versatility, and a deeper connection with consumers, and accessories are becoming an essential part of this narrative, adding that perfect finishing touch to personal style.” “In the accessories market,” she continues, “we’re seeing a strong appetite for statement pieces, from bold belts and necklaces to standout sunglasses. Mixed metals are having a moment, with unexpected pairings of silver and gold. There’s also a tactile movement toward texture on texture: raffia, straw, and shells creating a coastal-cool vibe across hats, bags, and jewelry. Beyond materials, buyers are still leaning into personalization, whether it’s through bag charms, shoe charms, or playful accents that make each look unique. At the same time, rental is becoming increasingly relevant in the accessories space, as retailers look for ways to drive recurring revenue, test trend-driven product with lower risk, and meet consumer demand for both variety and sustainability." Meanwhile, macroeconomic concerns are expediting growth in such categories as resale and rental. In addition to offering more accessible price points, they’re also part of a greater movement towards circularity and sustainability. In fact, according to Fashion by Informa’s US 2025 Fashion Consumer Outlook Report, 40% of consumers describe resale platforms as important. The shift also represents both consumers’ interest in sustainability and their reluctance to pay more for eco-friendly goods. The report reads 32% of consumers consider ethical production and sustainability while shopping for fashion but notes most are only willing to pay 10% more for such goods. "Economic challenges and shifting consumer preferences are significantly impacting the contemporary fashion market. In fact, 70% of fashion executives are concerned about consumer confidence and spending, leading to a shift towards value-oriented segments like resale and off-price,” says Kanji. “As a result, brands are focusing on product excellence, personalized experiences, and innovative marketing strategies to navigate these changes.” Fashion by Informa has taken significant strides to elevate the platforms and visibility of the sustainable brands exhibiting at the show. Fashion by Informa’s Sustainability Assessment Program, powered by Hey Social Good (HSG), verifies brands’ sustainability claims when they apply to exhibit at COTERIE. They cross-check each brand’s impact against the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals before giving them greater recognition on the show floor.

AVANT CRAFT

As described in Fashion by Informa’s SS26 Women’s Advanced Contemporary Buyer’s Guide, Avant Craft is a celebration of artisanal techniques with heirloom-worthy quality, refined details, hand-finished techniques and a timeless yet modern aesthetic. Natural fibers, neutral hues, and an emphasis on alluring textures bring the world of quiet luxury to Advanced Contemporary collections. Samuel Thorpe, lead creative designer of Varley, describes it as “...a clear lean toward refined simplicity: luxe textures, soft structure, and palettes that combine depth with ease. Textural fabrics like cord and open knits feel especially relevant, as do relaxed co-ords and tonal dressing that allow for layered, individual styling.” Thorpe says, “Collections this season are less about statement and more about how pieces feel, move, and layer—style with a lasting, thoughtful quality.” It’s a sentiment that reflects the spirit of Varley’s SS26 collection that deftly balances polish and ease. The season’s textures even feature an ode to nature. De Loreta co-founders Ana Wakeham and Nichole Bolivar highlight its emphasis on tactile, sun-worn textures: “Across SS26, we’re seeing an emphasis on feel—on fabrics that evoke touch and climate,” they explain. As for natural materials, Ifigenia Hill, design director of Lamarque, says “Suede and hair-on leathers are making a major comeback… you can expect to find these in our newest collection.”

Shop a global curation of brands and trends across better contemporary and advanced contemporary women's wear at the SS26 edition of COTERIE New York: September 14-16, 2025.

ELEMENTAL FLOW

Another standout seasonal trend from Fashion by Informa’s aforementioned SS26 Women’s Advanced Contemporary and Contemporary Buyer’s Guide is Elemental Flow. The trend may be recognized by a painterly aesthetic and pieces designed for fluid summer layering; ethereal, airy, lightweight, and diaphanous fabrics take center stage. “This season, we’re seeing a fresh take on the female silhouette—think exaggerated shoulders, nipped waists, low rise,” says Hill. “Sheer fabrics continue to trend, adding an element of cool sensuality,” she adds. Wakeham and Bolivar view Elemental Flow through a lens of movement and ease. “Flow is a key silhouette story in SS26 globally,” they say. “At De Loreta, that comes through in fluid dresses, relaxed tailoring, and airy separates that capture the movement of both ocean breeze and beach life.” In fact, the co-founders’ SS26 collection captures Elemental Flow’s silhouettes and its palette of hues. They describe how it “draws inspiration from Agua Dulce—a beloved local beach tucked into the vibrant coastline of Lima, Peru.” Wakeham and Bolivar explain that “Agua Dulce is a cultural gathering point where Peruvians come together to celebrate the season with joy, color, and community.” These exciting market trends and sartorial aesthetics highlight the power of subtle creative details. From incredible new textures and refined craftsmanship to the behind-the-scenes sourcing and production methods employed by top Better Contemporary brands at COTERIE, don't miss the opportunity to view these designs in person at the September 2025 edition of COTERIE New York. .

Right and left images by varleY; Middle image by favorite daughter

Published September 2025

Left Image by DE LORETA; Right image by cleobella

Images by LAMARQUE

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Join the COTERIE New York communityat the SS26 edition September 14-16, 2025