If you’ve been here for sometime (thank you!), you know I’m a REAL fashionista. In fact, my love for fashion was the original inspiration behind this blog! For as long as I can remember, I wanted to inspire and empower REAL women (of all ages, races, sizes, and careers) to accept themselves, be themselves, and express themselves. And though this personal mission has since expanded from an exclusive focus on fashion into my brand, event series, and online community Ditch the Clique, I still accept any good reason to talk style! And with New York Fashion Week (NYFW) just around the corner, I can’t think of a better time to dive back in!
Like many things we love in life, the fashion industry looks a bit different amidst COVID. And according to the schedules released for September’s presentation, NYFW is going to be VERY different too! BUT good things lay outside our comfort-zones right? And GIRL, I’m simply BEYOND thrilled that NYFW is even happening!
WHY am I thrilled? WHY do I attend? WHAT’S THE POINT?
Well, I’m so glad you asked…
Each year in February and September, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) collaborate with the fashion capitals of the world (New York, Milan, Paris, and London) to host live runway shows and events throughout fashion month. These twice-annual, high-end productions provide top designers around the world an opportunity to showcase their upcoming collection to fashion media, buyers, and industry insiders. Sounds elitist right? And some believe it is. BUT I (and many others in the industry) see NYFW as a way to set trends for the upcoming season as well as a way to network with like-minded creatives IRL.
Although much of NYFW is going digital during this COVID season, the Governor of NY has given the shows the greenlight (with MANY precautions is place of course)! And ya’ll better believe your girl is GOING! I personally find SO much inspiration in attending the live shows, spotting the street style looks, and connecting with other empowered women in the industry! It truly fills me up to then fill you up too!
But how am I preparing for this VERY different season?
Honestly, I’m preparing just as I have for the many seasons I’ve been blessed to attend before. Of course I’m planning trendy looks with masks for each day of NYFW, but I’ve spent most of my time researching and reaching out to the brands/agencies I’ve connected with in the past. I do this each season in hopes of strengthening our relationship for the months ahead. Lucky for me, my blogger bestie Claire Shay and I collaborate when pitching to attend shows, press previews, and events. Because GIRL it’s hard work but much more fun (and rewarding) TOGETHER!
Where does this leave you?
Well, whether or not you are a self proclaimed fashionista I hope that by sharing me REAL NYFW experience with YOU, you’re inspired to reach for the stars too! Because GIRL what are our trials and successes for if not to empower the women around us? OH and be sure to stream runway presentations by YOUR favorite designers VIRTUALLY! This feature of NYFW is new for MANY designers and who knows…perhaps it’s an exciting change that’s here to stay!
Read my ebook to learn how YOU can attend NYFW too!
Be sure to follow along with me on Instagram @rachelkgrim for live NYFW updates AND follow along @fantasyfashionweek for my daily fashion news reports on stories!
Looking for a community who will empower you? RSVP to the October 8-10th’s LIVE IN PERSON Ditch the Clique event, or to join the Ditch the Clique COMMUNITY!
Oh & GIRL, I’d love for you to follow along here at Ditch the Clique! Plus, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on Instagram for more inspiring stories and empowering words!
rachelkgrimstyle.com 
One thought on “Why I Attend New York Fashion Week (& how I prepare)”