Day two of New York Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2026 wrapped up Thursday with a sharp mix of classic “New York chic” and avant-garde looks that defined the runway. There was a clear sense of creative momentum, reinforcing why the city still holds its place among the world’s top fashion capitals.

From Christian Siriano’s Salvador Dalí-inspired surrealist fantasy to Michael Kors’ oversized, cartoon-scale accessories, these were the standout shows from Day Two.

The second day of New York Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2026 came to a close on Thursday bringing together a mix of creativity and a celebration of "New York Chic"  mixed with avant-garde looks, showcasing yet again the the buoyant display of creativity that define’s New York as one of the xxx fashion capitals of the world.

From Christian Siriano’s "Surrealist Dream inspired by Salvador Dali to oversized cartoon like accessories in Michael Kors. Here are the standout shows from Day 2.

Carolina Herrera

Held in New York’s Meatpacking District, Carolina Herrera presented a collection that moved seamlessly from ladies who lunch to ladies who appreciate fine art. Drawing inspiration from women in creative fields, Creative Director Wes Gordon described the show as a tribute to their individuality and the way they express their spirit and perspective through how they dress.

That was reflected on the runway, where five notable New York artists walked in the collection. The theme around uniqueness anchored the show, with each model styled as her own character with their own makeup looks to highlighted a sense of individuality.

The collection drew on a mix of references, from Capote’s Côte Basque-era glamour to 1990s silhouettes, including pencil skirts, slingbacks and turtlenecks. Jackets with Bombay-sleeved jackets were a recurring theme as well as cinched-waist dresses with bow detailing.

Standout pieces included leopard-print knit jacquard and intarsia, as well as compression knits in viscose and silk in the same motif, paired with coordinating jacquard shoes.

The result was a show that was classy and elegant, desiged for the New York woman always on the go.

Christian Siriano

The designer of Project Runway fame, Christian Siriano, known for presenting fashion shows filled with elaborate sets and drama, took a different approach for his Autumn/Winter 2026 collection. This time, he let the clothes do the talking, transforming the runway into a surrealist dream with mesmerising designs and bold pops of colour.

The collection opened with black and white structured looks featuring cut-outs, feathers and delicate beading, before models appeared immersed in a sea of colour. Designs included eye-catching gowns with dramatic asymmetric necklines and exaggerated tulle sleeves or peplums.

Standout looks included a chartreuse lace cropped jacket paired with a maxi skirt, and a bright green ombré bubble gown worn by supermodel Coco Rocha, who closed the show in her signature theatrical style. The dress was reportedly completed just moments before the show, having been designed only 48 hours earlier.

The result was a collection that transported the audience into escapism — almost like stepping into a Dalí painting or a fantasy dream.

Michael Kors

Michael Kors, long a champion of American sportswear, took a slightly different approach for his Autumn/Winter 2026 collection, delivering a runway show that felt current while channeling a “cool uptown girl” meets gala energy.

Held along the structured stairwell of the Metropolitan Opera House, the runway featured long structured jackets, asymmetrical suits, scarf-like wraps and sharply tailored trousers, all anchored around practicality and wearability.

The show closed with Christie Turlington in a black open-sided cashmere top layered over a micro-sequin floor-length dress, a look that felt both cool and celebratory. Accessories completed the mood with oversized cartoon-like sunglasses, leather gloves, knee-high boots and polished office handbags, striking a balance between glamour and office chic.

Michael Kors, who celebrates 45 years in the industry this year, said the show was inspired by iconic American stars and proved once again his flair for modern glamour and jet-set luxury appeal.