NYFW FW26 Prints & patterns: mixed plaids_ animal prints and dark florals

New York City has a new First Lady: Rama Duwaji. The 28-year-old Syrian-American artist is married to Mayor Zohran Mamdani_ and since his inauguration in January 2026_ she has quickly emerged as a widely cited fashion inspiration.

Seated front row at Rachel Scott_s Dotima show with her stylist_ Gabriella Karefa-Johnson_ she wore a knee-length plaid trench_ layered over a plain trench_ worn as a dress. It was a subtle reminder to the fashion crowd that even in a largely print-free season_ plaid and other geometric patterns still resonate.

Mixed Up Plaids

To keep plaids and checks feeling fresh_ designers mixed them with unexpected prints and other motifs. This offered a vibrant counterpoint to the 'minimalist' aesthetic that critics say dominated NYFW.

Animal Prints

Animal prints have transitioned from bold statements to year-round modern neutrals. Designers in New York leaned into this shift_ replacing traditional browns and greys with leopard and snakeskin for striking outerwear pieces.

Argyle Knits

Argyle knits are highly versatile_ transitioning easily from preppy aesthetics to edgy grunge styles. This season_ designers in New York showcased the pattern's minimalist appeal by utilizing muted tones across various silhouettes_ such as cardigans_ puff-sleeved sweaters_ and oversized V-necks.

Skinny Stripes

Stripes mostly took a backseat this season as designers leaned into a late _90s minimal feel. The only real exception was super-thin skinny stripes. They were used sparingly_ on neutral wool suits as seen at Sergio Hudson_ and on crisp cotton button-downs.

Dark Florals

Designers including Ralph Lauren_ Anna Sui and Ulla Johnson showed florals on dark backgrounds for a moody_ romantic feel. They were shown on chiffon dresses_ intarsia sweaters and jacquard pants.