Every season, New York Fashion Week (NYFW) captures global attention, not just for the clothes but also for the stars who attend. In 2026, celebrities didn’t just watch from the sidelines . They set the tone for the week, commanding front rows, walking runways, and even shaping the cultural conversations surrounding fashion.
From Oprah Winfrey at Ralph Lauren to Lizzo’s bold look at Christian Siriano. NYFW 2026 proved once again that the line between runway and red carpet is thinner than ever. Here are the standout celebrity highlights from NYFW 2026
Ralph Lauren’s Star-Studded Front Row
Ralph Lauren’s Spring/Summer 2026 showcase was one of the most glamorous moments of the week, thanks in part to its dazzling guest list.
Oprah Winfery
Oprah Winfrey lit up the event, proving that timeless sophistication still makes the biggest statement.
Priyanka Chopra & Nikki Jonas
Priyanka Chopra stunned in a sleek Ralph Lauren ensemble that gave a modern edge.
Usher & Naomi Watts
Elegantly seated, Usher and Naomi Watts added even more star power to a show that perfectly captured the elegance of the brand.
Cradi B & Kulture
Mother and daughter, Kulture appeared together at the Alexander Wang SS26 runway show.
Gwyneth Paltrow’s NYFW Comeback
One of the most talked-about celebrity appearances came from Gwyneth Paltrow, who returned to NYFW for the first time since 2017. Attending the Michael Kors Spring/Summer 2026 show, she opted for a layered gray-and-white outfit that exuded effortless chic.
Her comeback sparked major buzz, proving that even a single front-row appearance can become headline news when it’s a star of her caliber.
Olivia Wilde’s Bold Fashion Moment
At the same Michael Kors show, Olivia Wilde turned heads with one of the week’s most daring looks: a sheer top paired with an oversized blazer, skirt, and black leather boots. She finished the look with Ray-Ban sunglasses, creating an outfit that was equal parts edgy and polished.
The ensemble quickly went viral, reinforcing Wilde’s status as a risk-taker who embraces fashion as a form of bold self-expression.
Lizzo Brings Inclusivity to Christian Siriano
Few stars embody fearless fashion like Lizzo, and her presence at Christian Siriano’s NYFW 2026 show underscored that reputation. Wearing a flesh-toned corset and a transparent black sarong skirt, Lizzo made a statement that was both glamorous and body-positive.
Her appearance aligned perfectly with Siriano’s inclusive ethos, proving that when fashion and celebrity messaging align, the impact goes far beyond the runway.
Julez Smith Walks for Off-White
Another standout moment came when Julez Smith, son of Solange Knowles, walked the runway for Off-White. Dressed in a white denim suit with cowboy boots, Smith brought a western twist to streetwear, signaling a new generation of celebrity influence on high fashion.
His runway debut highlighted how NYFW continues to serve as a launchpad for rising stars, both in fashion and entertainment.
From Oprah and Priyanka Chopra lighting up Ralph Lauren’s front row to Lizzo and Olivia Wilde setting social media ablaze, New York Fashion Week 2026 was defined by its celebrity moments. Add in Gwyneth Paltrow’s long-awaited comeback and Julez Smith’s runway debut, and this season proved once again that stars are essential to the NYFW story.
Fashion may take center stage at NYFW, but in 2026, it was the fusion of celebrity, style, and culture that truly made the week unforgettable.