NYFW

New York Fashion Week Tips

I’ve said it so many times but I want to start this post off saying it once more, anyone can go to fashion week! Whether you are a blogger, work in the fashion industry, or it has just been on your bucket list for years, anyone can go to New York fashion week. That being said, you definitely will have to put in some grunt work to get into fashion shows and parties. Since I’ve been around the block, hopefully these tips will get you ready for fashion week too!

BEFORE NYFW

  • Be proactive with fashion show invites– No matter your size, there is a show for you. Some fashion shows will be invite only, but some are open to the public. The key is that you have got to put in the work and reach out to as many fashion shows and event contacts as possible because they are not going to come to you.
    • When should I start reaching out? Start reaching out about 3-4 weeks in advance. Brands and PR firms will not confirm attendance to shows until the week of so this gives you plenty of grace time. I suggest reaching out in order of importance. For bigger brands or parties, I would reach out first as these will fill up faster. For smaller brands, reaching out 1-2 weeks in advance is plenty of time as they will be looking for people to fill their seats.
    • How do I know who to reach out to? When in doubt, email everyone you can find a contact for. Utilize your good friend Google as well as LinkedIn. Each brand’s website should have a PR or marketing email. Contact them. There is an official NYFW show list that is published. I highly suggest going to down the show list, hitting up Google for each brand’s contact and emailing them your pitch. If you can find more than one potential email per brand, even better! If the brand is represented by a PR firm, even better. Contact the PR firm and let them know that you are interested in going to that brand’s fashion show/party.
    • What do I say in my pitch email? I suggest having one generic email for brands and one for PR companies. That being said you should personalize these for shows that you really want to go to or have a connection with. Tell them why you want to go to their show. Have you featured them in a blog post? Link to that exact blog post in your pitch email. For both instances, state the dates that you will be in New York and ask for an invitation to any shows or events that they might be coordinating. My typical email goes something along the lines of this; “Hi my name is Shelbi and I am the fashion blogger behind the blog, It’s All Chic To Me. I will be attending New York Fashion Week September 7-12th and would love the opportunity to attend any shows or events that you are coordinating for ____”
    • Follow up– Make sure to follow up with brands that might not have gotten back to you. They are receiving hundreds if not thousands of emails a day concerning fashion week so if you get to be a week out and you still have not heard from them, send a follow up email. Also, if they come back and say that there is not room, ask to be put on the waiting list. It can’t hurt and chances are people will back out and you will get a spot!
  • Share, share, share! –  Odds are you probably know several other people going whether they are local or far away. Connect over social media and share those contacts! My biggest piece of advice is to divide and conquer. Once you start getting responses back from shows, share the yes’s with your friends and vice versa so that you will know somebody else going! Nobody wants to go to shows alone and this way you gaining hopefully just as many contacts as you shared with others. Win-win!
    • Start a community google doc – My friends and I did this last year and it was GOLD. If you know people going, get a community contact list started early so that you can have all of your contacts in one place. We made sure to add the brand’s name, contact name, RSVP and who all was going to the show.
    • Facebook groups – If you are not already in several blogger or fashion Facebook groups, now is the time to join! If you search “New York Fashion Week” or “NYFW” on Facebook, several should come up and this is where people will be sharing their plans and contacts. If you are already in groups that have bloggers, strike up a conversation to see who is going and if people want to start sharing contacts. This should be a huge tool for you!
  • Make sure you have these tools– If you are not already signed up for Fohr Card and Fashion GPS (download on the app store), go ahead and do that NOW. Fohr Card is a website that brands use to see what your rank is as an influencer. Fashion GPS is an app that brand’s use to send out invites. This makes it super easy once you are there because all of your show invites will be in one place. Each show will also have a ticket barcode that is listed in the app and you will have to pull up in order to gain access.
  • PR firms are the way to go– I cannot stress this enough. While everyone is all hyped up about all of the fashion shows during fashion week, do not forget about PR firms. I’m talking about ones that you have worked with as well as ones that you might have just connected with for fashion week. If you get the chance to set up a meeting with a PR firm that you are currently working with, take it! There is nothing better than putting a face to a name and making a real life connection. This can only help you grow your connection with that firm and hopefully establish a long term partnership.
  • Packing tips–
    • This is your time to dress a little crazy– There are street style photographers EVERYWHERE and the more “out there” you dress the better. Still stay true to your brand but don’t be afraid to wear something you might not normally get the chance to. Now is your time to get creative! You might just find yourself on sone major fashion website 🙂
    • Wear comfortable shoes and bring flats – My #1 piece of advice is to wear comfortable shoes. You will be walking a TON and WILL get blisters so just prepare yourself. Bring bandaids on bandaids because you will need them. If you plan on wearing heels, bring a pair of flats to change into between shows. Something that can fit into your purse is best so that you don’t have to carry your shoes around in your hand (#fashionfauxpaux)
    • There is no need to bring more than 2 outfits per day- From experience, it is best to pack one “day” outfit and one “night” outfit. Chances are the day will be filled with shows and/or meetings all over the city so wearing something that is both cute, functional AND (most importantly) comfortable is a necessity during the day. Do NOT wear heels during the day. You will have enough blisters as it is. As for what to wear for your “day” look, you will see everything! Jeans are certainly not too casual but don’t be afraid to rock a dress or skirt with sneakers. For reference, I will be wearing sneakers with every single “day” look. For night, this is when you can dress up and throw a pair of heels on! Make sure they are comfortable though.
    • Partner with showrooms or local brands– Almost every brand during fashion week will have a showroom that will let you borrow clothes, wear them during fashion week and then return them. This is HUGE y’all for multiple reasons. This way you don’t have to by or pack as much stuff. Less money spent and less crap to lug around! Also, if you have worked closely with any brands back home, ask them if they will let you borrow clothes for fashion week. Odds are they will say yes if you agree to tag in your social media while you are there. This is great exposure for them!

DURING NYFW

  • Getting around town– Most people will use Uber which is why the surge pricing and traffic is INSANE. It might seem like a hassle at the beginning but I promise the subway is the way to go. My first year I spent close to $400 on Ubers alone if that tells you anything. Unfortunately fashion week events are ALL over the city. You will save SO much time, money and stress by using the subway. We asked a local every time we used it which way to go. They are more than happy to help you out. And if you absolutely must use an Uber, grab a few friends to ride with and then use the “Split Fare” function directly in the app.
  • Bring an extra battery– Even if you think you have the longest lasting phone battery there is, bring an extra. Make that two.
  • Arrive to fashion shows early– Even though every fashion show starts at least 15 minutes late, plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before show time to ensure that you get a seat. Chances are if you have a priority standing ticket and are early enough, you will get a seat! If you do have a seat and notice 5 minutes (or less) before the show starts that there is open seating in closer rows, go ahead and snag the seat!
  • Uploading to Snapchat/Instagram– Since you will obviously be sharing your NYFW experience on social media, a quick tip to the wise so that you actually enjoy your experience and don’t piss anyone off. Instead of uploading directly to Instagram/Snapchat during a show/party, take pictures and videos sparingly during the event and then upload everything at once after the event is over. This will ensure you make the most of your time and don’t miss anything! Pro tip: I used my time in Ubers or the subway to catch up on posting to social media.

If I missed anything or if you are just wanting more information on NFYW, including what I’ve worn in the past or how to get invited to shows or brand meetings, the easiest way to find NYFW posts I’ve done in the past, is to type “NYFW” into the search bar on the side bar of my blog or click on any of the below links. If I didn’t answer one of your questions or you would like to ask anything else, leave me a comment or shoot me a DM on Instagram and I would love to help you attend NYFW too!

2017

INSTAGRAM ROUND-UP: NYFW OUTFITS

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 2017: DAY 1

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 2017: DAY 2

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 2017: DAY 3

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 2017: DAY 4

AN END TO NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 2017

THAT’S SO 70’S DENIM JUMPSUIT

NYFW BLOG TAKEOVER + BEST PHOTO SPOTS IN NYC

2016

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK – DAY 1

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK – DAY 2

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK – DAY 3

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK – DAY 4

 

1 Comment
Life, Outfits

Cozy Chic Bedroom with Cstudio Home

Pajamas: Topshop | Bedding: Cstudio Home 

Photography by: Banavenue

This blog of mine is coming up on two years and I have yet to let you all into my home. This is probably for a few reasons, number one being that my place is a disaster 99% of the time (busy girl problems) and number two is that I am totally and completely decor challenged. The funny thing is that I can confidently say after 2 years of trying to get my room “just right”, I think I finally nailed it. Of course this all comes together when I am set to move at the end of the month. I have a feeling that I might add a few more things but for now I am so happy with my cozy chic bedroom.

My college bedroom decor was a bit childish- think flowers and way too much color. It was time for an upgrade. Post-college me knew I needed a more sophisticated room but also something that was still equal parts girly. I opted for a subtle shade of pink (the actual shade is called Quartz) and grey. I quickly noticed a theme when choosing my bedroom look and it is quite similar to how I shop for clothing. If you have followed the blog for even a little bit, you have probably heard me talk about my 3 C requirements: cozy, chic and preferably cheap 🙂

Cstudio Home’s bedding is just that all in one. After years of purchasing comforters, I have found that I am 100% a duvet girl. After experiencing the comfort of my new duvet, I feel bad for the 24 years I lived without one. Boy was I missing out on some of the best nights of sleep of my life. You know you’ve hit the jackpot in the bedding department when you wake up already counting down the minutes until you are back in bed.

If you are in the market for a bedroom facelift, I would highly suggest checking out Cstudio Home for all of your bedding needs. The quality and comfort is hands down the best that I have ever owned and that is saying a lot for someone as finicky as me. No matter what your style is, Cstudio has something for everyone and at every budget. Make sure to check them out!

*Thank you Cstudio Home for sponsoring this post. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own*

0 comment
Outfits

Back to School Shoes with Academy

Dress: Nordstrom | Jacket: Nordstrom | Shoes: Adidas  

To this day I still remember going back to school shopping as a kid and I’d be lying if I didn’t say it was the sole reason why I actually wanted Summer to end. Crazy I know but maybe that’s why I became a fashion blogger so that shopping could be acceptable year round 🙂 While it was particularly my favorite time of the year, I’d venture out to say it was probably my parents most dreaded. If you didn’t know, I have 2 sisters so back to school shopping was not a cheap endeavor. You wouldn’t catch my Dad dead in a shopping mall but when it came to taking us to get new tennis shoes from Academy Sports + Outdoors, he was more than happy to take us and get a pair for himself as well. His one girl Dad deed of the entire year!

It was probably in everyone’s best interest that Academy was the only store Dad took us to because he’d have a heart attack if he actually knew how much we spent each year! Every time we came home I remember him asking, “You girls didn’t spend more than $100 right?” and in unison we would all say “NOPE!”. I’ve come to find out over the years that Mom let him take us to Academy because she knew that 1) they offer the best brands for less – a lot less and 2) they have something for all ages (including the not so fashion forward Dad).

Back to School shoes with Academy Sports & Outdoors Back to School shoes with Academy Sports & Outdoors Back to School shoes with Academy Sports & Outdoors

I love a good pair of Adidas sneakers just as much now as I did in the third grade, possibly even more now that they come in so many different styles and colors! These adidas Cloudfoam Advantage Clean Court shoes are perfect for everyday wear. For a girl that loves fashion but more importantly comfort and functionality, these are a must for any activity with their sock liners and memory foam cushioning. They are currently on sale at Academy for just $49.99! You can grab them here or in store.

Back to School shoes with Academy Sports & Outdoors

Tank: Nike | Leggings: Nike | Shoes: Nike

Back to school always meant back to sports as well. For me, I was always involved in cheerleading and golf as weird of a combo that is! With that being said, a new pair of tennis shoes each year has always been a fun tradition in my family no matter how old you are! Nike has always been my personal go-to when it comes to tennis shoes and active wear. I’ve ventured out to other brands but always find my way back to Nike because of their quality clothing. These Nike Women’s Flex TR 7 Training Shoes are perfect for kids, teachers and moms alike and provide flexibility for all activities with breathable mesh uppers that allow your feet to stay cool. They are currently on sale for just $59.99. You can grab them here or in store.

Back to School shoes with Academy Sports & Outdoors

Back to School shoes with Academy Sports & Outdoors Back to School shoes with Academy Sports & Outdoors

Photography by: Banavenue

If you didn’t grow up going back to school shopping at Academy Sports and Outdoors like me, I can assure you they have something for the entire family and also carry a wide range of hunting, fishing, camping equipment, patio sets, BBQ grills and just about anything and everything sports and recreation related. If you hadn’t already guessed it, one major perk if you have boys in the fam is that they will be set for HOURS which makes for more shopping time for the girls 🙂

*Thank you Academy Sports and Outdoors for sponsoring this post. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own*

1 Comment
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, Outfits

#NSALE Wardrobe Essentials: 9 Styled Outfits

It’s been a hot minute since you heard me talk about the Nordstrom Anniversary sale and with only 5 more days to shop the sale before everything goes back to full price, I wanted to share 9 outfits made up entirely of 15 pieces from the sale. I hope you find this helpful when deciding which pieces are worth the purchase now, perhaps even if you will not wear it until later in the season. I know that I personally like to see it on someone else before pulling the trigger to purchase so that I can see what it will look like on. So without further adieu, here you go!

Jacket // runs true to size and is seriously a closet staple! I bought this last year. Since this jacket is now sold out. Here is super similar one.

Long sleeve tee // Runs very big. I am wearing an XS and it is still big enough to knot and wear off the shoulder. Such a great closet staple for layering and is only $18!

Jeans // True to size and one of the most under rated pair of jeans of the sale! I own several pairs of jeans in this brand. It is a great budget friendly jean.

Dress // Runs true to size. You can never have too many comfortable bodycon dresses, am I right?

Cardigan // Runs big. I am wearing an XS but could have done an XXS. If I had to pick just one cardigan from the sale, this would be it! It is a great thickness, has pockets and I love that it is longer in the back.

Sneakers // Run true to size. I am on a sneakers kick as of lately and these are such a steal!

Top // Runs very big. I’m wearing an XXS. This is just a fun top that comes in the prettiest shade of pink and also a grey color!

Jeans // Run true to size. I am wearing a size 25. If you buy just one pair of jeans from the sale, make it this pair! They are high waisted and so flattering.

Sneakers // Run true to size. I am on a sneakers kick as of lately and these are such a steal!

Jacket // Runs true to size but I would size up if wanting to wear with sweaters. I bought an XS. Hands down my favorite purchase from the entire sale!

Camisole // Runs true to size. You might as well stock up in every color because these lace camis are all the rage this season and are great layering pieces. Since this is currently sold out, I found an similar one here.

Skirt // Runs true to size. I am wearing a 25. Comes in 2 colors and is the perfect addition to you wardrobe for fall. Can be worn with booties, boots, or heels!

Shirt // Runs true to size. This darling top is a great transitional piece and would be so cute with shorts now.

Jeans // Run true to size. I am wearing a size 25. If you buy just one pair of jeans from the sale, make it this pair! They are high waisted and so flattering.

Jacket // Runs true to size but I would size up if wanting to wear with sweaters. I bought an XS. Hands down my favorite purchase from the entire sale!

Long sleeve tee // Runs very big. I am wearing an XS and it is still big enough to knot and wear off the shoulder. Such a great closet staple for layering and is only $18!

Jeans // Run true to size. I am wearing a size 25. If you buy just one pair of jeans from the sale, make it this pair! They are high waisted and so flattering.

Sneakers // Run true to size. I am on a sneakers kick as of lately and these are such a steal!

Dress // Runs true to size but I would size up if you are wanting the length to be long enough for work. I am wearing a 0. This was my favorite work wear purchase!

Sneakers // Run true to size. I am on a sneakers kick as of lately and these are such a steal!

Basic tee // Runs true to size. You might as well grab this tee in every single color because they are just so easy to throw on and go. For $15 who could say no?

Cardigan // Runs true to size. I am wearing an XS. Another great cardigan choice that comes in multiple colors and is under $35!

Jeans // True to size and one of the most under rated pair of jeans of the sale! I own several pairs of jeans in this brand. It is a great budget friendly jean.

Sandals // Run a half size small. I’ve literally been wearing these all Summer long you guys! Almost daily.

Long sleeve tee // Runs very big. I am wearing an XS and it is still big enough to knot and wear off the shoulder. Such a great closet staple for layering and is only $18!

Jeans // True to size and one of the most under rated pair of jeans of the sale! I own several pairs of jeans in this brand. It is a great budget friendly jean.

1 Comment
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, Outfits, WWW

Dresses that Rock for Work & Play

Dress: Madewell | Sneakers: Johnston & Murphy | Purse: Johnston & Murphy | Sunglasses: Nordstrom

Photography by: Banavenue

Over the years working in a corporate job, I’ve accumulated a LOT of work clothes. Something that I have come to find as of recently is that I have far too many items hanging in my closet that only serve one purpose. Either they are strictly for the office or strictly for the weekend (aka there is no justifying making it office appropriate). I don’t have a happy medium of outfits that could swing both ways which is both annoying and not efficient. The solution? I’ve started buying items that can serve more than one function. I’ve found that a pretty safe bet to know if it passes the test, is if you know it can take you from work to happy hour without having to swing by the house for an outfit change.

After going on the hunt for items that could fit both of these scenarios, I had a couple of takeaways I think anyone looking for work wear should do as well. First off, you can make almost any sleeveless, strapless or even backless dress work appropriate by throwing on a cardigan or blazer (I list a few favorites here). If you do not have at least a few staple color cardigans, you are doing it wrong! I have cream and black colored cardigans in my car at all times. You know for emergencies and what not. This way depending on my outfit, I always have a sure source of coverage or an Antarctica (because what office isn’t?) protector if need be.

Secondly, shoes can totally change the occasion of any outfit and make it more wearable. My favorite way to take a dress from work to drinks is to throw on a strappy pair of heels. Want to wear the same outfit for a more casual look? Throw on a pair of sneakers. As long as you have at least one pair each of pumps, strappy heels, sneakers and maybe a pair of flats. You are set!

Don’t forget that the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is still going on and there are lots of items still in stock, including lots of work wear! The sale ends August 6th!

0 comment

1 … 59 60 61 62 63 … 100