It’s officially that time of year – fashion month! If you follow me or any bloggers on social media, you’ve probably seen a lot of people make their way to New York. I got in early Monday morning for the start of fashion month at New York Fashion Week and I’m super excited to be here!
Fashion Week always kicks my butt (it’s so tiring), but it’s one of my favorite weeks of the year. It’s also pretty stressful. Between pulling outfits, figuring out show schedules, and of course, packing, there’s a lot of prep involved before it even starts. Since I’ve been attending fashion weeks for years now, I thought I’d put together my packing list. This list has definitely been perfected over the years – and I think I have all the essentials now.
Whether you’re attending for the first of fifth time, here are 8 things you must pack for fashion week.
JACKETS
The weather in NYC is unpredictable in September (and usually freezing during February’s fashion week), so jackets are always smart. Even if you’re just laying one over your shoulders or wearing it while out at night, you’ll want a couple. I suggest one military inspired one leather jacket, and a blazer or two. This season, I’m all about the plaid blazer!
JEANS
This might be unexpected, but don’t forget your denim. You’ll want a pair or two for casual meetings, going out, brunch before shows, etc. You’ll crave comfort at points throughout the week, so jeans are perfect.
COMFORTABLE SHOES
Probably obvious, but I can’t suggest this enough! Believe me, I definitely learned the hard way the first couple times. Find shoes that are stylish AND comfortable, and you’ll be happy you did. I tend to wear something with a block heel (like these or these) for longer days – and save the pretty heels for shorter events or the end of the trip.
UNDERGARMENTS
You want to be covered for every situation and to look your best, so undergarments are key. Everything from a strapless bra to Spanx to bralettes to show off – you want it all. Make sure you stock up on quality pieces before you pack and to try everything on with your outfits.
ACCESSORIES
The easiest way to make an outfit stand out at fashion week! This year, I’m bringing belts, statement sunglasses, chunky gold jewelry, and fun bags (I tend to bring smaller ones because they look more chic). Try to bring jewelry that is easy to mix and match with a few outfits.
PRE-PLANNED OUTFITS
Some days, you likely have multiple events to attend. For the mornings where you’re exhausted and the last thing you want to do is style an outfit, put on a pre-planned outfit (I usually pre-plan about 5 outfits). Items like dresses or monochrome suits are perfect. Basically, remember to pack something that’s brainless and that you already have planned out for certain events.
BASICS
On top of matching outfits, you always want to bring basics that can go with multiple statement pieces. I’m all about bodysuits right now, and these couldn’t be more ideal for fashion week. Easy to pack, they don’t wrinkle, they transition from one outfit to the next, and you can wear them multiple times. These are easy to match with jeans for a simple after party look, too.
ON-THE-GO ESSENTIALS
You’re away from home and usually don’t have time to run to the store, so think of all the essentials you might need while at a show or event. I personally bring band-aids, a battery-charged phone charger, boob tape, safety pins, breath mints, a travel-size dry shampoo, and roll-on perfume. Also, I always pack the nail polish that I’m wearing in case of chips.
OK, that’s it! What do you bring to fashion week?
Photos by Paige Campbell.
