Attending NYFW as an influencer- Episode 36
New York Fashion Week (aka NYFW) is one of the most exciting and fast-paced events in the fashion world.
Whether you’re an experienced influencer or attending for the first time, navigating NYFW requires preparation, strategy, and a touch of creativity.
In this post, I’ll share a complete guide to attending New York Fashion Week as an influencer, including how it began, how to get invited, and tips for making the most of your experience.
Create & consume:
What I’m creating this week: I have been working on and just launched a new product on my Etsy shop! This is the Bachelorette Weekend Itinerary and I made 4 versions of it in different colors/styles
What I’m consuming this week: Traitors US season 3 is here!! I love this show because it brings together reality stars from across genres and networks to play an assassin-style game.
In this episode:
Fashion Week began in the 1940s as “Press Week”—a way to promote American clothing when French designers were unavailable during World War II. Since then, it has evolved into a global phenomenon.
While fashion weeks happen all over the world, the main events take place twice a year in New York, London, Paris, and Milan, showcasing women’s ready-to-wear collections.
NYFW typically occurs in early February and early September, previewing upcoming seasonal collections (fall in February, spring in September).
In the early 2000s and 2010s, Fashion Week was primarily for buyers and editors to see what would hit the shelves next season.
However, the rise of bloggers shifted the scene.
By 2009, influencers like BryanBoy and Tavi Gevinson were making waves, even sitting in the front row alongside seasoned magazine editors.
Today, NYFW continues to adapt, with digital and in-person experiences blending seamlessly.
Planning for Fashion Week
Preparation is key to making your Fashion Week experience smooth and enjoyable. Here are some steps to consider:
Travel and budgeting: Book your travel and accommodations early. Consider splitting costs by traveling with a group of friends or fellow influencers.
Wardrobe prep: Plan your outfits by renting or borrowing clothes to create standout looks. Fashion Week is the time to dress boldly so hit up places like Nuuly or Rent the Runway to stock your closet with fun items.
Schedule priorities: Review the event schedule and prioritize the shows and events you want to attend.
Comfortable shoes: Expect to walk a lot, often between venues. Subway rides will be the best way for you to get around unless you're a high-profile guest receiving private transportation. Even then, Uber can surge and traffic can make you late.
How to Get Invited to NYFW
Getting invited to shows takes time and effort, but it’s achievable. Here’s how to get started:
Build relationships: Engage with PR agencies and brand teams year-round. Showcase interest in their clients, even outside of Fashion Week.
Be value-driven: Focus on how you can provide value to the brand or designer.
Send pitches: Email press contacts listed on the brand’s website. Include your media kit, links to your social channels, and examples of your fashion content.
Track invitations: Use a spreadsheet to organize show details, PR contacts, RSVP statuses, and timings.
Pay attention to other opportunities: Monitor Threads and Instagram stories for last-minute opportunities. You can also offer to attend on behalf of other creators.
Street Style Photography Tips
Street style photography is an essential part of Fashion Week. To increase your chances of getting noticed by photographers:
Engage early: Follow and interact with street style photographers on social media before Fashion Week.
Dress to iompress: Research trends and opt for colorful, eye-catching outfits.
Be strategic: Know where photographers congregate and walk confidently through those areas.
Book shoots: Arrange dedicated shoots with photographers if possible.
At the Shows
Once you’re at a show, here’s how to make the most of your experience:
Timing: Arrive early if you have standing room. If you have a seat, be flexible—PR reps may rearrange seating.
Packing essentials: Bring a backup phone charger, lip gloss, phone light, water, snacks, and other small necessities.
Content creation: Capture more footage than you think you’ll need, from the runway to behind-the-scenes moments.
Parties and Events
Fashion Week is filled with afterparties and brand events.
While these can be great networking opportunities, it’s okay to set boundaries.
I prefer to attend a few but avoid late nights or excessive drinking—staying fresh for the next day is key.
General Advice
Avoid comparisons: Everyone’s Fashion Week journey looks different. Focus on your own experience.
Express gratitude: Appreciate the opportunity to attend and connect with brands.
Follow up: After Fashion Week, send thank-you notes to PR contacts and continue nurturing those relationships.
In summary:
Fashion Week is an unforgettable experience, offering opportunities to grow as an influencer, connect with the fashion community, and showcase your unique style. With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of it.
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