After Kanye West’s somewhat disastrous NYFW show back in September 2016, in which models collapsed and fashion editors complained about the boiling heat, many had sworn off attending another Yeezy show.
But, starting just 25 minutes late, a darkened studio on Pier 59 in Manhattan was full to bursting with West fans looking for the latest installment of his unique designs, and they weren’t disappointed.
1. Halima Aden walked the catwalk in a hijab.
After being signed by IMG models, the 19-year-old Somali-American (who was born in a Kenyan refugee camp) walked her first runway at Yeezy Season 5.
Aden made headlines in 2016 when she entered a Miss Minnesota beauty pageant wearing a hijab and burkini. Queen.
2. ‘Keeping Up With The Kardashians’ got a nod.
In a continuation of the brand’s athleisure focus, hoodies, sweaters and cardigans were no surprise. But emblazoned on the back was ‘Calabasas’ – a reference to the Californian suburb in which the Kardashians live and was made famous on their E! show.
3. Social media was banned (well, sort of).
Rumours swirled that the Yeezy show would have a strict no phones, pictures or social media rule. But, from one quick glance at Instagram, it seems guests weren’t too bothered about the rules.
4. New trainers.
Trainer fans (yes there is such a thing) have been speculating for months about a possible update to West’s footwear line. And the new ‘runner shape’ debuted at the show, with a nod to more 1990’s gym wear than the AdidasxYeezy ‘Boost’ designs.
5. Kanye did not make an appearance.
Traditionally, at the end of a show, the designer will come out and take a bow, but Kanye was a no show. Instead guests sat around waiting until Kim Kardashian and Anna Wintour left, and followed their lead.