WRITTEN BY SHARRA GREENE
SO, This was my first fashion week where I would be working as an independent stylist! When I say independent, I mean solo dolo, as in not appointed by an agency. Needless to say, it was a dream come true. From working with one of my favorite brands to meeting my favorite fashion writer, it was definitely one that I’ll remember forever.
Like I’ve told everyone who's asked me about my experience, NYFW took all the energy I had, in the best way possible! From preparing designer collections before they made their runway debut to maneuvering around NYC trying to make it to shows on time, on top of making sure I connected with my NY based friends while I was in town, it was a hectic, fast paced, and fun all at once. I’ve learned so much in just a matter of days and I’m already planning for February’s fashion week! Here are a few highlights from my experience as well as 4 tips I’m passing along for anyone whose interested in attending.
Dressing Models for the Matte Brand Show…
Since I was hired by Style Fashion Week to work with multiple designers, I had no idea who exactly I would be dressing for when I arrived. of course, I knew of some of the designers that would be showcasing at Style Fashion Week. However, weeks before I left for NYC, every time I would check the schedule, something was different. Some designers were added, some were taken off. There were rumors going around at the venue that Briana Shanee of Matte Brand would be showing later on and as dope as I thought that would be since I wear her clothes and LOVE them, I kinda shrugged it off because I hadn’t seen her there.
Photos courtesy of Style Fashion Week and Matte Brand.
As I was walking past a room where style assignments were being given, I saw Briana walk in not long after. She asked a group of stylists to start assisting her with the line up and I immediately got to work, helping her plan the debut of this BOMB collection. Though I was backstage assisting multiple designers with styling the models, Matte was my main assignment for the day. Briana was down to earth, cool under pressure, and she knew what she wanted, which made working with her such a great experience.
Photo by me.
cc: Style Fashion Week.
Watching the collections come to life on the runway for Briana and a host of other designers was beyond rewarding. Being able to have a double view of the backstage craze and the hard work we were putting in to make everything come together, while watching the crowd react not long after just made me appreciate the craft so much more. The show was complimented with a BOMB performance of Shade by artist Sonyae Elise (I’ve been listening to this song everyday since I got back, it’s a forever mood).
On top of that, watching Courtland, ( a.k.a Court Kim, one of my friends that I met back in April at the Angelman Syndrome event) walk in the show and get a standing ovation made me so happy and proud to see all of her hard work on her personal brand pay off! Stay tuned for an exclusive interview with Court, coming very soon!
Court Kim making her NYFW debut.
Watching the Yas Couture Show
If you follow the red carpet styles of Jlo, Ashanti, and Gwen Stefani, just to name a few, you’re probably familiar with the work of Elie Madi of Yas Couture without even knowing it. The couture label is known for their glistening gowns with sultry silhouettes. Luckily, I was finished dressing models just in time to catch some front row views at the venue’s only couture show of the day. Models dripped in glitter, sequins, and feathers shining on lush fabrics.
Photos by Me.
ATTENDING SHOWS POWERED BY FASHION BOMB DAILY & MEETING CLAIRE SULMERS
On my last day in town, I was pretty exhausted from working behind the scenes all day for the first two days. I had plans to attend some shows, enjoy being in the audience, and of course, network. I had front row tickets for a showcase of emerging designers, hosted by FBD founder Claire Sulmers and wardrobe stylist H Diddy. One thing that I love about seeing the work of emerging talent is that you can literally see the passion and hunger through their work, which is not always the case with some designers who may already have some skin in the game. I was more than impressed.
On top of that, I almost cried meeting Claire Sulmers (anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE ME SOME HER). We had a brief conversation but she was super sweet and encouraging! I’m definitely looking forward to further connecting with her in the near future. Peep some of my favorite collections from the shows below.
Blac Glas
The opener was Blac Glas. When I tell you, this collection had me wanting to get up out my seat but I didn’t wanna block the view! The designer is all about creating contemporary clothing for women that is sexy, yet classy and modern yet vintage inspired. I was literally in awe at her unique point of view and her eye for detail. My favorite look was a hot pink coat with colorful snakeskin and vinyl panels and huge fur sleeves (above). I could definitely tell that nothing but the best materials were chosen to execute this collection.
The finale show and main event was by Christien of Christien Kollection. This man is a MASTER TAILOR. Not only did he give us impeccably fitting two and three piece suits out of vibrant textiles and prints but he also served us some gorgeous couture gowns in lush fabrics. I was in love, along with a lot of the audience.
Photos courtesy of Tyree Thomas of Ivistofoto. See more of his work at Ivistofoto.com
4 TIPS FOR ATTENDING FASHION WEEK…
Pack Clothing Options for Several Different Weather Conditions
With NYC’s unpredictable weather, packing looks that you can switch out if the weather switches up is crucial.
2. Choose Looks That Make a Statement
Fashion week is not just about the looks on the runway. It’s also about appreciating both the art and commerce sides of fashion with others, networking, and making meaningful connections with people. Putting together eye catching looks can serve as ice breakers and conversation starters, doing some of the work for you when it comes to networking.
3. Make Travel Plans Ahead of Time
Though a lot of fashion shows are held in Manhattan, different shows tend to be scattered around town at different venues. If you want to hit as many shows as possible, create an itinerary of shows you want to attend, research the tickets / requirements needed to attend.
Then, map out your travel plans based on the show’s locations and how you’ll be getting from point A to B, whether it be via subway, Uber, walking, etc. Making these plans ahead of time will save you a lot of time, energy, and stress once you’re heading out.
4. Be Confident
Whether you’re working behind the scenes to produce the shows, attending as part of the audience, or doing both like I did, confidence is key. Having confidence in your skills, point of view, and what you can bring to the table can help you make new friends and potential business partners or clients. Never let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong. If you have a major interest in fashion and style and the knowledge to go with it, then you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Attending this season’s NYFW was beyond inspiring and motivating for me. I’m already looking forward to do it all over again in February!
Thank you to Style Fashion Week and each of the bomb designers that I was able to work with, as well as everyone that showed love and support to me during the hectic week! See any looks above that you like? Comment your thoughts below! Let’s chop it up. New posts coming your way very soon!