If you ask any fashionista, New York Fashion Week (NYFW) changes the pulse of the city. Celebrities and influencers alike make their way into town to sit front row at the shows. The hottest restaurants in the city are fully booked. And, of course, fashion mavens go extra hard to make the NYC sidewalks their runway.
That said if you’re ready to see the glamour and fashions up close and personal, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for the 4-1-1 on how to navigate fashion’s biggest week.
1. Getting on the list is half the challenge; the other half is securing your seat.
Tickets for the NYFW February 2024 season will be hard to secure, but it’s worth the VIP experience. Unlike previous fashion weeks when you had to apply and request an invitation, many designers are selling tickets, which makes it accessible, but only if you plan! Get your tickets early to secure your seat.
Pro-tip: If you want an influencer invitation, download GPS Radar to apply to shows, panels, and exclusive fashion events. In addition, some brands may offer their top-paying customers tickets to their show as a loyalty reward. Either way, don’t forget to RSVP.
2. Wear comfortable shoes and curate your schedule.
NYFW shows will be held throughout NYC, with the main event produced by IMG, unfolding at RXR’s Starrett-Lehigh Building on Manhattan’s West Side. The historic building boasts 75,000 square feet of event space, including public outdoor terraces with views of the Hudson River. The space is also home to a food hall and a restaurant owned by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson.
3. NYFW is for everyone.
Traditionally, NYFW centered on American-based designers and retailers in the women’s wear categories. However, NYFW has leveled up and regularly welcomes a diverse array of global designers. Notably, Paris-based designer Ludovic de Saint Sernin will show his namesake brand. Meanwhile, there will also be a small selection of men’s fashion shows presented this season.
4. So many shows, so little time. Which presentations are worth the hype and trek?
The schedule includes over 100 panels, parties, runway shows, galas, and exhibitions. That said, it’s paramount to know the time, location, and format of each presentation so you can plan accordingly. A breakdown of the official schedule is available here.
The Curated Fashion Week Schedule
Of course, fashion week is always chaotic and busy. So, it’s normal for the attendees or a show to run late. Not to mention, fashion mavens can fail to secure invitations. That said, many of these shows will be live-streamed on the official NYFW YouTube, along with news and updates on TikTok. In other words, there’s no need to fret. You’ll be able to satisfy your fashion fix.
If you’re ready to plan the NYFW agenda of your dreams, keep reading for the lowdown on all the happenings in NYC.
Feb. 8: NYFW Pre-events happening at The Public Hotel in Soho
Feb. 9: Fashion’s Superbowl Sunday kicks off!
- Helmut Lang: Catering to the clean girl aesthetic.
- Kim Shui: The iconic downtown brand promises an unforgettable return.
- Event: A celebration of hair and makeup equity with Black Beauty Roster will take place at the official NYFW venue.
Feb. 10: Only Sit in Front Row Runways
- Badgley Mischka: This designer is for girlies who love dramatic gown moments.
- Eckhaus Latta: This brand showcases old-money elegance with casual styles.
- PatBO: If you’re in your lucky girl syndrome era, this whimsical brand is your go-to capsule collection.
- Kid Super: Stop by the opening of Kid Super’s concept store in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
- The Blonds: Expect drama and fierce looks on this runway.
- NYFW afterparty at the Public Hotel: This event will be hosted by Shaun Ross and friends, RSVP here.
Mefeater Exclusive Events This February 2024
- Shop Women Marketplace: Right before the Runway Show, join us for Shop Women, MEFeater’s Pop-Up Presentation featuring a collective of women and ally-owned brands. Free with RSVP.
- MEFeater’s Galentine’s Day Show: This runway show will feature several designer collections. For standing and seated tickets, buy here.
- MEFeater’s Club Pink: Join us for a celebration after the runway. Buy tickets here.
Feb. 11: NYFW Shopping Favorites
- Ella Johnson: Offering vacation looks and soft feminine styles.
- Area: Consistently delivering sparkly looks, this show will be packed with celebrities and influencers.
- Christian Cowan: Returns to the calendar after a stint away from the runway.
- Ludovic de Saint Sernin: Hailing from Paris, this eponymous line will bring chic fashions to the Big Apple.
Feb. 12: Gala Season Collections
- Retrofete: Essential designer dresses for every party girl.
- Sergio Hudson: A favorite of Keke Palmer’s go-to red carpet looks, this designer will be star-studded!
Feb. 13: The Shows Continue
- Bishme Cromartie: This brand won “Project Runway” and is now presenting to the big leagues. This show should not to be missed.
- Batsheva: Soft feminine dresses for the soft girl era.
- EDGE: The Future of Fashion Tech Networking event, RSVP here.
- ICON: An NYFW afterparty, RSVP here.
Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day
- Bevza: A Ukrainian-based independent brand featuring fine jewelry, footwear, and accessories is showing its latest products at the official NYFW venue.
- Thom Browne: This brand is always a favorite amongst the sophisticated and cool crowd.
- A downloadable version of the official schedule is available here.
Schedule Dinner and Fashion Exhibitions With Your NYFW besties!
Beyond the catwalk is the vibrant NYFW community. Make your way downtown, which offers respite and inspiration through various fashion exhibitions. “Women Dressing Women” will be on display at The Met’s Costume Institute. Another must-attend art event, The Museum at FIT, is currently showcasing “Statement Sleeves.”
For dinner plans, make reservations for Chef Kwame and the Polo Bar restaurants. For the complete NYC fashion girl experience, spend the night or two at The Standard Hotel in the Meatpacking District. The location will leave you at the center of everything and a straight route to LGA airport for those coming from out of town. What show or event did we miss?
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