This is a guest post written by Cameron Williams, a sustainable stylist.
During this month’s NYFW, my partner, Emily McKay of Most Wanted Luxury Vintage, and I had the honor of producing a one of a kind event for the sustainable fashion community here in NYC on behalf of the ethical fashion non-profit, Remake. This unique runway show, which took place at The Delancey in the Lower East Side, featured activists, garment workers, and models, rocking looks composed entirely of secondhand pieces from partner organizations Most Wanted Luxury Vintage, Deals on Designers, Housing Works, and more!
Look 1 of the Remake Fashion Show
This show, and the looks and collection that I styled for Housing Works, serve as a celebration of the “golden era” of New York Nightlife ranging from the Studio 54 era of the late 70s, through to the Peter Gatien owned club era of the early 90s.
As a fashion historian, I’ve always been inspired by the extravagance of 70s disco culture, the grittiness of the punk culture of CBGB, and the maximalism of the 90s club kid era seen at megaclubs like Limelight, The Roxy, and Club USA.
But while this may have been a period of joy for some, it’s important to situate this show, and these looks, within the broader context of what was going on in the 80s and early 90s, specifically across the queer spaces of NYC.
It is within this climate that vital organizations like Housing Works were born, which is why it was a must for us to include them in this show, today.
Each of the following 5 looks pay homage to different eras of nightlife that have influenced my style on my own nights out today.
The first look, which was inspired by the kind of 90s street wear that became synonymous with Tunnel’s famed hip hop nights on Sunday, features a Baboozy work vest, Calvin Klein Joggers, a thick rope chain and a pair of brown combat boots designed to reference the iconic Wheat Timberland boot that was popularized during this era.
Looks 2, 3 and 4 of the Remake Fashion Show
Look 2 channels early 90s grunge with a vintage leather motorcycle jacket, a checkered skirt with ripped fishnets, and a heeled combat boot. This look is finished with an Act Up T-shirt, appropriately paying homage to one of the most important political organizations of our lifetime, and an organization whose ceaseless advocacy and powerful direct actions brought attention to the horrors of the AIDS crisis.
The third look celebrates the punk era, working in a plaid blazer from Bonobos, leather shorts and collar, and knee length, lace up Doc Martins that feel made for the floor of CBGB.
The next look is a wonderful entry point into the 70s with an earth tone heavy look featuring a suede poncho, brown and yellow bell bottoms from WESC, and a beautiful pair of brown suede boots.
Looks 5 and 6 of the Remake Fashion Show
Look 5 leans into the decadence of disco during the Studio 54 era. This look, which was inspired by the glamor of Liza Minnelli’s sequined Halston gowns, features a bright green sequin dress, knee-high boots, and is finished with round sunglasses and an elegant creme scarf around the neck.
My final look continues with the energy of that era, and consists of a polo shirt with subtle sparkle, cream Brooks Brothers pants, loafers from Florsheim and finished with a luxurious cream and brown vintage fur coat that would spark jealousy in even the most renown VIPs in the balconies of Studio.
This show is my love letter to the joyous and magical nights I’ve personally had going out in New York City. These outfits, all of which are secondhand, allow me to bring together my love for sustainable fashion while supporting an important organization with a mission that is near and dear to my heart. This collection is not just a celebration of New York club culture but more importantly a celebration of joy as an act of resistance. With the purchase of each one of these pieces you can support the incredible work of Housing Works while also giving these items a second life, so shop the collection today and let your inner club kid run wild.