The New York Fashion Week is meant to be a showcase of daring creativity and aspirational style. Yet, at this year’s shows, some of Hollywood’s biggest names delivered looks that felt less like bold statements and more like bewildering miscalculations.
It’s a harsh truth, but when celebrities are given the unique opportunity to celebrate a designer’s art, showing up in an outfit that completely misses the mark does not only signify a personal style (in this case, their stylist’s) failure but it’s also sign of a deeper disconnect between celebrity culture and the very industry they’re meant to champion.
The Most Notable Fashion Failures of NYFW 2025
While some stars shone, others delivered looks that were baffling, bland, and just downright disappointing. Below, I outlined the missteps that had fashion critics everywhere scratching their heads.
1) Jennifer Aniston
This actress had for the Michael Kors show, stepped out in an ensemble that felt surprisingly uninspired. Her choice of a simple purple pleated midi dress and a cropped black blazer was so safe it verged on boring. For a star of her caliber, the look felt more like a quick outfit pulled together for a business lunch than a front-row moment. It lacked the dynamic energy and thoughtful styling needed to truly honor the occasion.
2) Oprah Winfrey
Ms Winfrey turned heads at the Ralph Lauren show, but not necessarily for the right reasons. Her ensemble of leather trousers paired with a white button-down, while comfortable, lacked the tailored, commanding presence she’s known for. The look felt too casual for a show of this magnitude, suggesting a level of comfort that sacrifices a powerful aesthetic.
3) Tyla:
Tyla’s choice of a brown ruched halter top and black midi skirt for the Pandora event was a street-style look that didn’t translate to the fashion week stage. The separates, while on-trend in a different context, lacked the polished sophistication and elevated design that is the hallmark of a major fashion event. It was a missed opportunity to showcase a more directional or theatrical side of her personal style.
4) Priyanka Chopra Jonas
The actress arrived at the Ralph Lauren show in a dark paisley-print jacket with a matching sheer skirt. The combination felt busy and mismatched. While the sheer skirt was a modern touch, the overwhelming pattern and heavy fabric of the jacket created a visual confusion that detracted from what could have been a chic and cohesive outfit. It’s a classic case of an outfit trying to do too many things at once.
5) Emily Blunt:
She sported a pair of pinstriped trousers and an intricate top with a bandeau. The ensemble’s biggest flaw was its lack of harmony. The pieces seemed to be from different worlds, resulting in a disjointed look that did not flatter her. This highlights the importance of choosing pieces that, while individually interesting, also work together to form a coherent statement.
Takeaway
The celebrity fashion at NYFW needs a serious reset, and it starts with a few key changes. First, stars and their stylists must stop playing it safe. It’s great to be comfortable, but Fashion Week is about taking risks and pushing boundaries, not wearing outfits that could be worn to a grocery store.
Another point worth mentioning is that celebrities need to treat this as an art form, not just a photo op. They should be working with designers to create something unique, not just pulling a look off the rack. This means a return to craftsmanship, creativity, and a genuine appreciation for the artistry on display.
Ultimately, the next time these stars attend a major fashion event, one can only hope they remember that a great look isn’t only about the clothes; it’s about the conscious effort to honor the craft.
