I've Noticed Numerous Trends in NYC Art Galleries—Here Are 7 That I'm Observing at Every Opening Currently.

      As a New York City resident, I particularly enjoy attending Thursday night gallery openings, which have become my favorite events in the city. Starting around 7 p.m. (as people typically arrive fashionably late), artists, patrons, and everyone in between flock to one venue to appreciate the exhibits. Not only do I delight in viewing the works of admired artists, but I also enjoy some people-watching. At the most recent opening I attended, it seemed like a gathering of stylish Gen Z art lovers, all dressed elegantly in casual yet trendy outfits. They appeared effortlessly chic, with looks suitable for the heat and the high-profile art environment, and I made sure to take note of the recurring trends among these young tastemakers.

      While observing their engagement with the artwork, I found myself pondering the thought processes that went into the outfit selections of the stylish gallery-goers before they ventured to the Lower East Side. What led them to opt for resin bangles instead of gold bracelets, or voluminous trousers rather than fitted cigarette pants? Regardless, the trends I noticed were undeniably cutting-edge and are already well-received within the fashion community.

      If you're planning to attend an artsy event soon or are just interested in trying out new trends that are currently in vogue in NYC, continue reading to discover the styles I've been spotting—not just at this particular opening, but across multiple art galleries in the city.

      **Stacked Bangles**

      Before the recent BET Awards (where Doechii was seen in stacked resin bangles), I attended an exhibit where a girl wore a simple white ribbed tank, dark blue cuffed jeans, and black flats—very model-off-duty. Her only accessories were a series of stacked bangles on both wrists, featuring rounded and abstract shapes in shades of blue, silver, and black. Her look lingered in my mind, inspiring me to emulate her style this summer.

      *Where to Shop Stacked Bracelets:*

      - ZARA: 3-Pack of Rigid Bracelets

      - DINOSAUR DESIGNS: Rock Set of Two Resin Bangles

      - Heaven Mayhem: Siren Bangle

      - Open Edit: Transparent Dome Cuff Bracelet

      - Anthropologie: Round Bangle Bracelets, Set of 3

      **Billowy Pants**

      As someone who stands at 5'0", I've always appreciated billowy pants. One artist at the exhibit I attended sported such an elegant outfit that I immediately inquired about her pants. “Comme,” she replied. Not only did I admire her art, but her cool attitude also made her an It girl in my eyes. I spotted another pair of billowy pants being worn by someone appreciating a piece on the wall. This made me determined to find a pair before summer ended.

      *Where to Shop Billowy Pants:*

      - Lovers and Friends: Eliette Pant

      - Helsa: The Balloon Pants in Silk and Wool

      - Black Comme des Garçons: Black Gabardine Trousers

      - ELOQUII: Tie Ankle Balloon Pants

      **Square-Toe Shoes**

      The trend of square-toe shoes continues, and I'm thrilled by it. While I frequently see this style on the bustling streets of Manhattan, it’s also present among the most fashionable attendees at art openings in various forms: knee-high boots, leather slingback flats, and heels. Despite my inclination toward pointed-toe shoes for several years, this contrasting shape encourages me to add a pair to my wardrobe.

      *Where to Shop Square-Toe Shoes:*

      - Jeffrey Campbell: Fathom Flats

      - Jacquemus: Les Ballets Square-Toe Mules

      - The Row: Square Toe Loafers

      - Tony Bianco: Fantasy Heeled Boots

      - Madewell: The Ophelia Slingback Flats

      **Subversive Basics**

      I have a soft spot for subversive clothing—think cutouts, draping, layered tank tops, pants styled as shirts, jackets transformed into skirts—a delightful twist on traditional functionality. I noticed that nearly everyone at this gallery wore a subversive piece, inspiring me to explore my own style and expression again. These unique items embody an artsy, cool, and curious vibe, which is exactly what I aim for.

      *Where to Shop Subversive Basics:*

      - HODAKOVA: Suit Wide Trouser Shorts

      - SIMKHAI: Kove High Rise Double Waistband Jeans in Two Tone Del Mar

      - HODAKOVA: Asymmetric Shirt

      - Ottolinger: Ssense Exclusive Blue Jeans

      **Split-Toe Shoes**

      Yes, split-toe shoes are ubiquitous—and I’m not just referencing Margiela. While at the aforementioned exhibit, I chatted with friends about their opinions on split-toe shoes, reminding us that Margiela wasn't the originator of the style. The Tabi trend gained traction last year, although the concept has been