New York Fashion Week: For Rookies

It is hard to believe but this February marked my 5th time to New York Fashion Week! To say I am a “pro” is completely false, but I have learned a few things along the way. But before I begin, picture this: a hampster on a wheel wearing high heels. That’s NYFW in a nutshell!

 

NYFW

The hamster metaphor sounds funny, but it really is the perfect depiction. From the moment you commit to going, the wheel starts rotating. Perhaps you’re going a steady speed as you outfit plan, reach out to brands/PR agencies, then catch a breather as you wait hope for invitations to come. Then, from the moment you touchdown in NYC, it’s GO GO GO! You are running around to Fashion Shows, putting your best foot forward at brand meetings, and connecting with like-minded people from across the globe. Mind you, you are doing all of this in carefully curated outfits, with freshly primped hair, and high heel shoes! The things we do for “the gram…”

SoHo is Prime Real-estate

If there is one piece of advice I would offer a NYFW rookie it would be this: stay in SoHo! It is already challenging enough trying to get from A to B thanks to NYC traffic (your outfit will not be suitable for the subway stairs!) The last thing you want to do is add to the stressor by securing accommodations far from the action. For your reference, Spring Studios is the main stage. You definitely want to be within ten minutes of here. 11 Howard is my hotel of choice because it is a short Uber ride to the shows, walking distance to restaurants/bars, as well as the shops on Broadway, and nearby a plethora of picturesque backdrops.

Make time to Eat

This probably sounds like common sense but JUST DO IT. Happy is prettier than hangry…and we want to look good in our photos! The days go by fast and when you’re busy it is easy to forget to eat. Arrive prepared and stock your purses with RXBARS, and take advantage of the complimentary water bottles at Spring Studios. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!

 

Glamsquad

You already know my feelings about Glamsquad. It is only the BEST LIFE HACK EVER. Well, during NYFW my appreciation for this on demand beauty services is even greater. Not only will your hair and makeup look flawless the entire day, but it’ll allow you to sleep longer, (you will need your beauty rest). Chances are high you’ll be staying with a friend in a small NYC hotel room. Rather than fighting over the bathroom vanity, sit back and relax and let the professionals do what they’re good at. I’m still giddy reflecting back at my bow hairstyle. They nailed it! Give Glamsquad a try and get 25% off your service with code KELSEYK25 – limited to one time use per customer.

Photoshoots

If it is at all possible to bring a photographer with you, rather than hiring one by the hour, DO IT. I felt much more relaxed while taking photos with our “live in” photographer each day before the madness. This might be considered a luxury, so consider this cost effective option if it’s out of the question. Hire a photographer to shoot your daily looks but have them meet you outside of Spring Studios or the location of your meetings. Ask him or her if they will shoot with your camera card and then edit your own pics. This will take turnaround time out of the equation and you won’t feel so rushed. Let’s get real, we want to be able to post our #ootd pics in a timely manner!

Have Fun

Most importantly, have fun! NYFW is seven days devoted to fashion and style. Despite the chaos and exhaustion it is important to keep things in perspective. You are there to network, forecast, and capture quality content. For a complete outfit recap check my Instagram page @KelseyKaplanFashion. Stay tuned for more New York Fashion Week coverage, but in the meantime, shop the featured looks below:

 

(Location: Pietro Lolita) – Jacket | Dress | Gloves | Purse | Stockings (similar found here)| Glam c/o Glamsquad
(Location: NoodleLove SoHo Blazer | Skirt | Shoes – old | Purse | Earrings | Umbrella | Hair c/o Glamsquad.

 

Photography by Jenifer D. Imagery