The closing night of New York Fashion Week powered by Runway 7 reached its peak of brilliance with Natalia Fedner, the Ukrainian-American couture designer celebrated for redefining modern luxury through her groundbreaking metal textiles and sculptural silhouettes.
A Visionary in Metal Couture
Based in Los Angeles and trained at Parsons School of Design, Natalia Fedner built her foundation mastering haute couture techniques in Paris — skills that now merge seamlessly with her avant-garde approach. Her patented 6-Way Stretch Metal™ fabric is one of fashion’s most remarkable innovations: a flexible metal textile that molds perfectly to the body, adapts to the wearer’s temperature, and allows for true size fluidity. This invention merges comfort, craftsmanship, and inclusivity, marking a turning point in contemporary design.
The Light Side of the Moon
For her highly anticipated return to New York, Fedner presented “The Light Side of the Moon”, a 19-look collection that served as a poetic exploration of light emerging from darkness. “This collection is inspired by the surface of the moon when it’s hit by the sun,” she shared backstage. “We always think about the dark side of the moon — the eeriness, the mystery — but I wanted to focus on the lightness that exists within that darkness. It’s quite metaphorical.”
To bring her vision to life, Fedner used white copper chains dyed in shades of black, blue, and gray, creating a gradient that evokes the moon’s transition through its phases. Several pieces were oxidized using liver of sulfur to patina sterling silver into a gunmetal tone — a finish that shimmers between celestial and industrial, ethereal and tangible. The result was a captivating fusion of innovation and emotion, where texture, color, and technique told a story of transformation.
A Star-Studded Legacy
Fedner’s avant-garde designs have illuminated some of the world’s most iconic stages and red carpets. Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Cher, Kim Kardashian, Shakira, Doja Cat, Charlize Theron, and Alicia Keys are just a few of the many stars who have worn her pieces — each moment reinforcing her reputation as one of the most visionary designers of her generation. Her work has also appeared in the pages of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, L’Officiel, and i-D, and in the prestigious windows of Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue in New York.
A Powerful Runway Moment
The night began with an energetic vogue performance, instantly setting the tone for a celebration of creativity and individuality. The excitement reached its climax as Jurassic World stars DeWanda Wise and Mamoudou Athie walked the runway, embodying Fedner’s signature blend of red-carpet glamour and wearable innovation. Each piece — from luminous metallic gowns to sculpted chain ensembles — reflected the designer’s ability to merge artistry with empowerment.
An Emotional Homecoming
Following the show, a visibly moved Fedner reflected on what this night meant to her:
“I was really nervous because New York means a lot to me. I studied here — at Parsons — and had my first internships at Marc Jacobs, Donna Karan, and Calvin Klein. I even worked at Calvin Klein Collection for a time. So this is a homecoming. I started here, moved to LA, and built my brand there. Tonight felt like coming full circle… and it’s only going to get bigger and better.”
She also expressed deep affection for her models, many of whom have worked with her for years:
“My models are like my babies. They fly across the world to be part of my shows, and that’s such a huge compliment. I’m just so proud of them.”
A Defining Moment in Runway 7 History
Closing the Runway 7 schedule at Sony Hall, Natalia Fedner’s “Light Side of the Moon” was not just a finale — it was a statement. Through craftsmanship, innovation, and emotional depth, she captured what makes fashion transformative.
Her presence at Runway 7 reaffirmed the platform’s commitment to showcasing visionary designers who merge technology, art, and social relevance, ensuring every season closes with both inspiration and impact.
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