The Polish American Fashion Foundation hosted their first-ever NYFW show at the New Museum on Bowery, featuring three designers in an engaging display of Polish design talent. Perfectly tailored music, opened up the room with a known favorite, Bitter Sweet Symphony by The Verve, and later wrapped us in arms with live mini instrumental orchestra. Custom made perfumes left mesmerizing lingering scents and a heartfelt opening by Aleksandra Borowczak (PAFF founder) set the tone for a well-deserved milestone in Polish fashion history!

Viola Spiechowicz opened the show with voluminous beige jackets, bell sleeves picture stamping clips of China with white linen dresses, bathing suits, and tunics. It was an effortless dance played well with the classical music notes leading each look. Cinched waists delicately floating and slim lines gave structure to the soft palette of whites, beiges, and light blue. Whimsical and dreamy, the collection echoed a sense of freedom for women as they moved from moment to moment, country to sea and through time stamped eras, particularly that of Gidget with 1950s swimwear and sophisticated 1900s air of the Gibson girl!

Mia, comprised of mother and daughter Anna and Iwona Marganski, was sexy and architectural. Sculptural black separates with hints of white were accented with leather detailing, cuffs, and high, striking collars. The collection lined a futuristic setting engaging the mind to enter into a moment of what could be!

The highlight of the evening was an exciting presentation by Paprocki and Brzozowski, a design duo working together since 2000. Marcin and Mariusz have already achieved recognition in their native country, and will finally be known internationally. The designers showed a Polish Renaissance-inspired collection of elegant silhouettes and luxurious textiles. Their refined color scheme included rose-colored brocade, luxurious white chiffon, and sparkling black beading,interspersed with a few surprising moments of the most brilliant green silk!

The overall point of view, both individually and collectively, was clear and strong. These designers are knowledgeable, passionate, and dedicated to their craft. New York is lucky to be welcoming these Polish designers into the dialogue of contemporary fashion.

Words: Lydia Hope Samson