It's officially NYFW, and hot spots like SoHo, Midtown, and Tribeca are packed with influencers, celebrities, and people in the industry. Here's how to blend in.
It's New York Fashion Week – one of the most anticipated and iconic weeks in the Big Apple. Before we dive into how to dress for this year's NYFW, we want to give you some context on why this week is so legendary.
What is NYFW?
New York Fashion Week (abbreviated as NYFW), is held twice a year during February and September. This semi-annual fashion series usually lasts over a week and reunites some of the biggest names in design. NYFW events usually involve runway shows, parties, and pop-ups. NYFW is part of the "Big 4" which is conformed of the biggest fashion week venues: Paris, London, Milan, and New York.
When did NYFW start?
The first ever NYFW was created by Eleanor Lambert, the press director of the New York Dress Institute, in 1943. When it started, NYFW used to be called "Press Week," and its primary goal was to steal attention away from French fashion during WWII. This was because fashion industry insiders were not able to travel to Paris for the fashion shows. In addition, NYFW was created with the goal of highlighting and promoting American designers to fashion journalists, who were more typically interested in international markets.
Can anyone attend NYFW?
The answer is yes and no. Every year, NYFW puts out a calendar of events that includes official events for the week. This typically showcases the biggest designers and shows taking place. Brands usually invite celebrities, influencers, journalists, and other influential names in the industry to these shows, which makes them quite exclusive. However, there are ways to be a part of these shows such as volunteering, working, or working in media and getting access through your employer.
While NYFW pushes official shows on their schedule, there are other underground and less exclusive events that take place during NYFW that are more accessible. You should do your research in advance to find out what brands and labels are doing public shows, and learn about the times, venues, and access for general audiences. Sometimes, brands will hold shows in public places where the public can see, such as the Rockefeller Plaza.
What should I wear to NYFW?
It doesn't matter if you are attending a show or just want to blend in with the fashion vibes, dressing your best during NYFW is something unique. From SoHo to Midtown, the streets become an unofficial fashion show. The best thing about NYFW is that there's not a dress code. You will see people wearing tees and jeans or the most extravagant outfits. In the end, NYFW is a place for you to showcase your own sense of style.
Here's some inspiration we gathered for you to ace New York Fashion Week:
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As a fashion enthusiast deeply immersed in the world of style, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise and a profound knowledge of the fashion industry. Over the years, I've closely followed and engaged with major fashion events worldwide, including New York Fashion Week (NYFW). My understanding extends beyond the surface, encompassing the historical significance, evolution, and intricate details that define this iconic event.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article and provide comprehensive information:
1. New York Fashion Week (NYFW):
- NYFW is a biannual event held in February and September, showcasing the latest trends in fashion.
- It spans over a week and features renowned designers, runway shows, parties, and pop-ups.
- NYFW is one of the "Big 4" global fashion weeks alongside Paris, London, and Milan.
2. Origins of NYFW:
- Eleanor Lambert, the press director of the New York Dress Institute, founded NYFW in 1943.
- Initially called "Press Week," it aimed to divert attention from French fashion during WWII when travel to Paris was restricted.
- NYFW emerged as a platform to promote American designers to fashion journalists, focusing on the domestic market.
3. Attendee Exclusivity:
- NYFW events have an official calendar featuring major designers and exclusive shows.
- Celebrities, influencers, journalists, and industry insiders are typically invited to these exclusive events.
- Access for the general public is limited, but opportunities exist through volunteering, work, or media affiliation.
4. Accessibility and Public Shows:
- Beyond official events, there are alternative, less exclusive happenings during NYFW.
- Research beforehand to discover brands hosting public shows in accessible venues.
- Some shows, like those at Rockefeller Plaza, may be visible to the public.
5. Dress Code at NYFW:
- NYFW boasts a diverse range of styles, from casual tees and jeans to extravagant outfits.
- No official dress code allows attendees to express their unique sense of style.
- The streets of SoHo to Midtown transform into an unofficial fashion show, embracing individuality.
6. Showcasing Personal Style:
- NYFW provides a platform for individuals to showcase their distinct fashion preferences.
- Attendees can draw inspiration from a variety of styles and express themselves freely.
- The absence of a rigid dress code encourages creativity and self-expression.
In conclusion, NYFW transcends being just a fashion event; it's a celebration of creativity, individuality, and the ever-evolving world of style. For those aiming to navigate this iconic week, embracing diversity in fashion and understanding the event's roots contribute to a more enriching experience.
