Political climate and literal climate of the world aside for a haute couture minute; I am encouraged. As New York Fashion Week wrapped up and we ride along the taffeta train to the other cities – London and then Paris – I am thrilled by some of what I see.

Do you ever catch yourself imagining a special trip for a special reason? Although you have never been to this particular place within a destination or the reality of actually going seems slim, do you fantasize about it anyway? That’s my current major crush situation with New York Fashion Week (NYFW).

My mind has been all over the place recently. Things just seem to keep escalating, building a shit storm atop the shit storm. Dwelling in the chaos and cruelty is not a friend of mine. Rather, I’m more of the move-forward-and-eventually-you’ll-feel-more-positive kind.

The fashion industry has made strides in inclusivity and showcasing diversity over the past few years. There has been a big push from inside and outside the industry to do better. To show more of a spectrum of the beautiful types – all types – of people that can showcase clothes.

As much as I love the summer I welcome the fall for one reason only. No it’s not the basic pumpkin spiced lattes that beige people love so dang much that get me going; it’s New York Fashion Week (NYFW). Bring on the runway style, the street style, and the festivities.

It’s that time again. It’s New York Fashion Week. While the streets are flooded with the usual fashion community, a newer movement, too, is hitting the streets. Designers, models, stylists and supporters flooded Times Square for the #PlusIsEqual Lane Bryant event. The campaign is calling for support in representation of all sizes of women in fashion. Excuse the forthcoming location pun, but I think it’s much overdue in terms of time.

Last week I advised what I would be watching for at this September’s Ready-to-Wear New York Fashion Week (NYFW). I must say, after reviewing over 100 presentations I am underwhelmed. In the pursuit of newness, I admittedly may misinterpret solid showings for, “been there, done that” lacklustre.

Instead of getting the end of summer blues, I will focus my attention to the next great thing: September’s New York Fashion Week (NYFW). In anticipation of the next eight days, I thought I would share what I’ll be watching for. Of course I will be awaiting each collection’s sartorial vision for the upcoming season – that’s a given – but I’ll also be watching for other details. I want to see the choices brands make behind the collections