New York Fashion Week continues to evolve, and this season’s calendar reflects not just who’s in — but who’s opting out of New York Fashion Week. As the official schedule for Fall 2026 comes together, several prominent designers are notably absent from the lineup, shaking up expectations and spotlighting broader changes in how fashion presentations are staged.

1. Brandon Maxwell

Once a regular presence, Brandon Maxwell won’t be on the official NYFW schedule this season — surprising many who had come to expect his collections during fashion month. His absence raises questions about creative direction and industry shifts.

2. Sally LaPointe

Known for elegant modernist aesthetics, Sally LaPointe also skips the calendar this season, continuing a pattern of selective participation that reflects how some designers are rethinking major fashion weeks.

3. Alexander Wang

A fashion week staple for years, Alexander Wang is missing from the Fall/Winter 2026 runway schedule. The brand’s absence underscores how even household names are reevaluating traditional show placements amid changing industry economics.

4. Jason Wu

Jason Wu’s team has shifted to a one-collection-per-year approach, meaning his presence on the NYFW calendar for this fall is on pause — a move aligning with broader brand strategies and reducing pressure on seasonal cycles.

5. Monse (Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia)

Rather than holding a traditional runway show, Monse opted for an intimate Lunar New Year event with a salon-style presentation of its latest collection — a softer, more exclusive alternative to the big stage.

6. Ralph Lauren & Tommy Hilfiger (Off-Calendar Plans)

Some American icons like Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger aren’t part of the official calendar but are still presenting collections in more bespoke or off-schedule formats. This reflects a larger trend of brands prioritizing brand control and visibility over strict Fashion Week timing.

Who’s Still Committing to NYFW?

Despite notable absences, many key brands remain anchored in New York’s schedule as designers like Ralph Lauren, Coach, Carolina Herrera, Michael Kors, Altuzarra, and Tory Burch anchor official shows — reaffirming NYFW’s relevance even as the industry diversifies how it tells its fashion stories.

The narrative of brands opting out of New York Fashion Week isn’t a sign of decline — it’s a reflection of how fashion evolves. From off-calendar showcases to intimate salon presentations, designers are reclaiming control over how and when their collections are revealed, while NYFW continues to adapt and remain a vital pillar of the global fashion calendar.