From the Past: NYC Subway Stations, the Ultimate Fashion Runway

Chanel, the renowned luxury fashion house, made a striking return to New York City by presenting its Chanel Mtiers dArt 2026 collection in an unexpected setting: a subway station. The event took place at the unused 168 Bowery station, offering a gritty yet captivating contrast to the usual glitz of Parisian runways. The fashion audience, as always, embraced the unique spectacle.

Historically, the citys subways have inspired creativity and style. In the 1970s, publications like WWD highlighted the urban charm, decay, and energy of New York in their fashion spreads, emphasizing both street style and high fashion. The subway has long served as a metaphor for the pulse of daily life in the city, influencing designers and capturing imaginations.

New Yorks subway has also been immortalized in popular culture. Films, Broadway shows, and music videos have repeatedly showcased its iconic environment. For example, WWD documented the 1975 premiere of the movie Tommy at the 57th Street/6th Avenue station, attended by stars like Tina Turner, Ann-Margret, and Elton John. In 1986, Michael Jacksons Bad video, directed by Martin Scorsese, highlighted Brooklyns Hoyt-Schermerhorn station, showcasing the subways gritty allure on a global stage.

Fashion history is rich with subway-inspired moments. Designer Chester Weinbergs fall 1968 collection was photographed aboard the N train, while Calvin Klein presented his spring 1974 collection at the 42nd Street/Times Square station. Decades later, Jeremy Scott paid tribute to New York with a b-boy inspired Moschino pre-fall 2020 show at the New York City Transit Museum, and Tom Ford staged his spring 2020 runway at the abandoned Delancey Street/Bowery station, complete with neon lights and MTA police, capturing the citys vibrant nightlife spirit.

Chanels 2025 subway presentation, featuring their new ambassador A$AP Rocky from Harlem, reinforces the subways status as an iconic backdrop for unforgettable fashion moments. New York City and its underground network continue to provide a dynamic stage where style, culture, and history intersect.

Author: Olivia Parker