In an ethereal, glowing setting, New York Fashion Week first-timer Hanako Maeda debuted her forest-inspired fall line. Citing “Into the Woods,” folktales, and works by Gerhard Richter, the young designer stuck with her usual minimalist approach, and the collision of tradition with innovation, but added distinctive, woodland-inspired details.

Against a tranquil screen featuring ghost-like, shadowy trees, the looks ranged from monochromatic pants and jackets to daring A-line dresses. The more basic looks, such as a white cotton shirtdress, were emboldened with bold touches such as leather collars and mink cowls. Moss embroidered leather leggings embraced the edginess present throughout the collection. Pieces such as a deer-print pea coat and a petrified wood-printed maxi dress embodied Ms. Hanako’s achievement in colliding the worlds of fairytale and modernity.

Keeping with the “city girl lost in the woods” theme, models wore glamorous accessories like gold ear cuffs, and sported minimal makeup and messy, plain hairstyles. All of the shoes, boots or pumps, had wood incorporated into the thick platforms.

The colors were kept to a forest palette, as well. Most were neutral, with black being featured heavily. But, some pieces were moss- and fawn-colored, along with bold standouts of oxblood and burgundy.

Valerie Nelson is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected]