New York plays catch up with Europe in launching its first men’s fashion week on Monday, a four-day showcase for American spring/summer 2016 collections in a rapidly expanding market.

Big-name labels Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Kors and Polo Ralph Lauren will rub shoulders with up-and-coming designers such as Public School, Thom Browne, Michael Bastian and Rag & Bone.

Designers will present more than 50 shows mainly at the Skylight Clarkson studio in trendy West Soho.

The menswear market is champing at the bit for recognition after being drowned out for years by the biannual fashion weeks in New York, which feature hundreds of womenswear shows.

“American menswear has never been stronger or more creative,” says Steven Kolb, chief executive of the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

“New York Fashion Week: Men’s” will now be held twice a year, in July and January, following established event ... Read more »