Move over, established fashion houses—there’s a fresh face in town, and it’s making quite the entrance. Meet HAYELI @hayeli.nyc , a brand-new label that burst onto the scene with its Fall/Winter 2025 debut at Paris Fashion Week @parisfashionweek . If you’re ready for a sleek fusion of refined tailoring, rich textures, and a dash of cultural flair, keep reading. This was not your typical runway show—think vivid color blocking, dramatic silhouettes, and a whole lot of attitude. Let’s dive in!
Meet the Brand: HAYELI & the Visionary Behind It
HAYELI might be new, but the story behind it is anything but ordinary. Founded by Hayel Aram, an up-and-coming designer with a background in textile innovation, the brand aims to combine traditional craft techniques with modern construction. Rumor has it, Hayel grew up surrounded by artisans, collecting scraps of fabric and turning them into offbeat creations in his family’s humble workshop.
Following a stint in London (where he studied fashion design and interned at a renowned couture house), Hayel set his sights on building a label that honored his heritage while embracing global influences. Today, HAYELI stands for subtle cultural nods—like handwoven motifs or reimagined heritage silhouettes—that transition seamlessly into contemporary wardrobes. From the buzz in the front row, it seems people can’t get enough.
The Runway Show & Collection
Making a big splash for your first-ever show at Paris Fashion Week is no small feat, but HAYELI pulled it off with flair. Picture an intimate industrial venue softened by lush textiles draped across the walls—an inviting set design that felt both rustic and chic. The moment the lights dimmed, a hush fell over the audience, and we knew we were in for something special.
Dramatic Silhouettes & Bold Textiles
The FW25 collection featured a parade of structured coats, pleated culottes, and intricately layered dresses. Each look combined signature tailoring with playful proportions—like coats with exaggerated shoulders that tapered into cinched waists, or wide-leg trousers paired with sharp, minimal tops. The color palette spanned deep jewel tones (think emerald, amethyst, and garnet) interspersed with neutral charcoal grays and sophisticated blacks.
Hayel’s love for textiles shone through. We saw:
- Tactile Brocades featuring swirling metallic threads
- Handwoven Wool with subtle geometric patterns
- Sleek Vegan Leather inserts adding a modern edge to classic shapes
The result? A harmonious blend of textures that felt both refined and adventurous.
Heritage Accents
Though the collection is undeniably modern, Hayel gave subtle winks to his roots with embroidered motifs that hinted at Middle Eastern tile work and swirling architectural lines. Even the show’s music—an eclectic mix of electronica and gentle strings—reinforced this concept of bridging old and new.
The Moment Everyone Talked About
Typically, first-timers don’t get a standing ovation, but the final look—a floor-length coat in shimmering embroidered brocade—had the crowd on its feet. The coat was layered over a draped jumpsuit in a subdued shade of gray, topped off with an imposing, structured collar that felt downright regal. It was a cinematic finish that left us itching for more.
My Personal Take
As someone who’s seen all the old pros do their thing season after season, I love when a newcomer makes a grand statement. HAYELI’s show felt like a breath of fresh air—impressive, yet not weighed down by too much hype. There was a genuine sense of enthusiasm, both from the designer and the front-row guests. If Hayel Aram’s goal was to get the fashion world buzzing about his brand, consider it mission accomplished.
Those embroidered motifs were an unexpected delight—reminding me that elegance can still be fun and culturally rich. The interplay of textures made each ensemble pop, while that final brocade coat was literally star-worthy. Mark my words: by next season, I bet half the style set will be vying to wear HAYELI at red-carpet events.
HAYELI’s story is just beginning, and we’re all here for it.
