Shop
Shop
Poor Little It Girl™ partners with several affiliate programs, meaning that I can earn a commission from purchases/clicks by those who visit this site at no additional cost to you!
NYFW 6 months ago
It’s been a few years since I attended my last New York Fashion Week. Not for any other particular reasons then, ya know, a pandemic and having a baby. But do I miss going to New York every September and February and seeing the shows and feeling the excitement the city has to offer during those weeks? Absolutely. And clearly y’all do too. Every year around August and January (the months before NYFW starts) I get an influx of questions about how to attend NYFW if you’re a blogger and what it takes to get into shows.
That’s where this blog post comes in. I sent out a Tweet asking y’all if you wanted me to share my tips and tricks on how to attend NYFW. Basically breaking down everything I know on how to get into shows and ways to make the most of this week-long event that happens twice a year. The response I got was overwhelming since, while New York Fashion Week seems so common to some, a lot of bloggers really aren’t sure how it all works exactly.
A Timeline On How to Attend NYFW: Everything You Need To Know!
Before I started Poor Little It Girl, I worked at a few fashion magazines in NYC for about 4 years, having attended the shows (first at Bryant Park and then Lincoln Center) multiple times. And I will say, my experience going to shows as an editor as opposed to a blogger is totally different! Basically, as a magazine editor, you’ll get invited to loads of stuff without having to lift a finger. But for us regular old small to middle-tiered bloggers, you have to put in the grunt work well before the start of New York Fashion Week to get into just a handful of shows. So here I am, sharing all my secrets on how I make NYFW work for me as a blogger…enjoy!
2-3 Months Pre-NYFW
NYFW is not really something you can say “Oh I want to attend NYFW this year!” the week it starts. It takes planning. So about 2-3 months prior to the shows I put the pedal to the metal and started pitching hotels. (Obviously, this step doesn’t apply to those that live in NYC, the Tri-State area, have a friend with a comfy couch they’re happy to let you crash on, or have enough money in your bank account to afford the crazy hotel prices of NYC!). What this means is I reach out to a handful of hotels asking if they would host me for a certain number of days in exchange for social media/blog promotion.
Pitch New York City Hotels
Now, this is a crazy busy time of year and you’ll get a lot of “Unfortunately due to the high volume of guests this time of year we’re not able to collaborate at this time.” emails. Which is OK! If they can’t comp your stay, ask if they have a media rate. Get a group of bloggers to stay with you to help split the cost and expand the coverage. NYC hotels are super expensive (and I’m super cheap) so I pitched probably 30 hotels each season hoping one with bite.
When you do this though, be realistic about what you’re going to get. Like, don’t pitch the Plaza Hotel (I mean, if you’re a big ass blogger then go on with your bad self and do that!), but stick to boutique hotels that have a small social media presence that could use the extra coverage. I usually head to Trip Advisor and search “best boutique hotels in NYC” and start emailing them all. Sometimes I call asking for a PR contact, sometimes I email their info@ hotel name accounts, or sometimes I find a direct email and do that. Really, it just depends on the hotel. (You can usually find all that info on the hotel’s website.)
In your email, all you really need to include is your blog name and highlights of your brand (were you featured in a magazine, named a city style-setter, etc? Something that makes you different from the million other bloggers emailing them), dates you’re in town, your social media reach and what you’re willing to do in exchange for a stay. I’d keep this email short and sweet, maybe 1 paragraph, and that’s it! They don’t need to know “It’s been my dream to attend NYFW since I was a little girl and blah blah blah” so keep it professional and concise. And don’t attach your media kit unless they ask….they’ll never open it.
1 Month Before New York Fashion Week
About a month or so before the shows (This coming 2022 fall New York Fashion Week is September 9-14th) you’ll start seeing the schedule fill-in for what shows are when during NYFW. You can literally just google “NYFW (insert season) Show Schedule” and you can find it that way. I like to look up the previous seasons’ schedule and make a “wish list” of shows I’d like to attend, and then research PR contacts off of that.
Remember though that a LOT of shows/presentations are NOT listed on the official schedule, so you’ll have to do some digging. What I usually do is request just about anything and everything, and then see what fits into my schedule and then RSVP YES to those specific shows. It’s a lot of work and emails to attend NYFW, so be prepared.
Request NYFW Show Tickets
So what do I mean by “request” when it comes to NYFW? Like I said in the beginning unless you’re a top-tier blogger or a magazine editor, chances are you’re going to have to request tickets to get invites to shows. Now, some shows do their NYFW ticket requests in-house (i.e themselves) and some brands hire PR agencies to manage their attendee list for NYFW. Basically, the best thing to do is to email everyone. Over the years I’ve built up a long contact list for shows I like to go to, but sometimes you have to search.Again, it’s a long process and there’s no one way to do it.
Now, I know some bloggers will apply for press credentials to shows in hopes of getting tickets, but I prefer to go straight to the source and just send an email to ask. Again, whatever works for you, go for it. Actually, I’ve never heard of a blogger having a great experience applying for press/media credentials for NYFW so I’d skip that altogether personally.
When you send a request email (each season I probably sent around 200 emails, not kidding), keep it short and sweet, just like the one you did for your hotel pitch. I keep mine SUPER generic so I can send the same email to a bunch of brands, but for shows that I’ve attended a bunch of times and have a great relationship with the brand, I’ll personalize it. These people are getting hundreds, if not thousands of emails asking for invites to the show, you rambling on and on (again, skip the “it’s been my dream since I was a little girl to attend…”) isn’t going to make you stand out.
I usually divide up the emails I send out to PR Agencies and then directly to brands since the verbiage is going to be a bit different. For PR agenciesI send a somewhat generic email asking for invites to any shows/presentations they’re coordinating this season (if I’m not sure what they all are) and for brands, I’ll directly ask to attend their show/presentation.
2 Weeks Before New York Fashion Week
Follow up! Every single ticket request you sent (if they didn’t respond) should get a follow-up email. Nothing long, just simply saying you’re following up on your request. I usually get more responses from my follow-up emails than I do my original pitch emails…so this is an important step not to forget.
Follow Up And Make Your Schedule
As you get invites to shows/presentations, make sure you don’t RSVP YES to something that you know you won’t be able to attend! Brands know when you’re a no-show and you don’t want to get the reputation as the blogger that says they’re going to come to things and always flakes. Only say YES to things you know you’ll be at.
This is also the best time to download the Launchmetricsapp. Not sure if brands and agencies still use this app to send ticket requests and seat assignments but it’s good to have on hand. In this app, fashion shows you RSVP’ed yes too will pop up there and it’s an easy way to keep your schedule organized. When you arrive at the shows, a lot of times you’ll need to scan your barcode thing, which can be found right in the app. It’s foolproof and makes life a lot easier.
In between shows, it’s smart to set up showroom appointments or meetings with brands. Now, I know you’re excited to go to New York and attend NYFW, but don’t forget the importance of your sanity and the lack of cabs in NYC – so don’t schedule so many meetings your head falls off. I really only reach out to 3-5 brands/PR agencies that I’ve cultivated a great relationship with and see if they want to set up a breakfast meeting or if I can pop by for a showroom visit. This is a great way to make face time with brands you love and get to know each other on a personal level.
1 Week Before New York Fashion Week
Start packing! Depending on how long you’re going (I usually go for 3 or 4 days, the entire week is just too much for my grandma self), you’re going to want to start planning out outfits. Don’t forget, February shows are COLD, September shows usually bring rain, so you’re going to need loads of layers and again, cabs aren’t that easy to find when everyone is trying to snag one.
I brought heeled boots one season that are usually super comfortable, but 9 hours on my feet said otherwise, so for the rest of the shows I ended up wearing sneakers, jeans, and a big coat. And honestly, my new vow for any future NYFW trips is to always dress comfortably! Forget the heels, forget the uncomfy clothing, just be yourself. In a sea of a million bloggers and wannabe’s trying so hard…it’s refreshing to stand out for NOT going overboard. Your feet will thank you.
A Few Of My Favorites To Pack for NYFW In September
Other little tidbits to do at this time are to confirm your hotel reservation, train/plane ticket is set to go, and make sure your blog/social media posts are all scheduled out since you may not have time to do all that while in NYC. Also, make sure your show schedule and your meeting schedules are organized and move anything accordingly. You can receive ticket invites to shows literally up until the day before, sostay on top of your schedule and make sure you don’t double book. This is also a good time to set up some brunch, lunch, and/or dinner reservations with your friends/fellow bloggers while in town. The hot places fill up fast so it’s best to be prepared.
Other Things To Keep In Mind When You Attend NYFW
So you get tickets to a few shows and you’re so excited, then you see that you don’t have a seat, but are handed a dreaded “Standing” assignment. Don’t stress! Standing tickets are actually sometimes better than those who get actual seats because 10 out of 10 times not everyone shows up to the show, so they use the Standing people to fill in the empty chairs. I can’t tell you how many times my standing self got a front-row seat at a show because of this reason. Just make sure you’re standing near the stairs/on the side so you can slide right in.
But this also means don’t be the asshole that just sits in another person’s seat without knowing if they’re there or not. Some bloggers do this and I personally disagree because, having been on the fashion magazine editor side of things, there’s nothing worse than seeing some wannabe influencer in your spot who’s acting like they own the place. Just be respectful.
One of my biggest pet peeves is when influencers blast all over social media “Oh my gosh, my week is crazy!” or “The craziness of New York Fashion Week is here!” or whatever else they say to act like they’re just too stressed out when really, they’re just complaining to make themselves sound cool and important. Aren’t we past the hustle culture and girl boss attitude? No one wants to hear a privileged influencer complain about NYFW…it’s not a good look.
Also, be mindful that not all of your readers care that you get to attend NYFW, so you want to make sure not everything you’re doing is so focused on this trip. Sure you need to be doing your social media promotion and such for the hotel you’re collaborating with, but make sure you’re still mixing in some non-New York Fashion Week posts on your blog and social platforms so you’re catering to everyone.
And I guess most importantly, have fun! New York Fashion Week is a great time to connect with bloggers from across the nation that maybe you’ve been friends with on Instagram or TikTok but not IRL, so make those brunch reservations, do some touristy sightseeing, and remember that while you’re there for work, NYC is also the most amazing city in the world and you want to soak it up as much as you can.
Poor Little It Girl™ partners with affiliate programs, meaning that I can earn a commission from purchases/clicks by those who visit this site at no additional cost to you!
Previous Post
Leave a Reply
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
These are so helpful Cathy! Thanks so much for taking the time to share this!
Reply
So glad you loved the post! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This is such a great post, Cathy! Thanks for sharing all your insider tips–I’ll definitely be putting these to use some day :)
Reply
That’s great to hear! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Cathy this post is BOSS! Thanks so much for sharing!!
xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.comReply
So glad you loved it!! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This is a great post filled with helpful tips! I attended a few NYFW shows last February and definitely want to go again. It’s a great experience!
Reply
OH yes you must go again!! xoxo Cathy
Reply
I’m so glad you’re the worlds greatest hotel pitcher on the planet. Can’t wait for my 2nd and FINAL fashion week. And I’m totally wearing sneakers the entire week.
xo Jessica
My Style VitaReply
Hahaha! Yes, ONLY sneakers…heels were a dumb idea. xoxo Cathy
Reply
This post is fantastic! Working towards attending next February, and these tips will come in handy!
xx, Bri || http://www.Neutral2Neon.com
Reply
That’s so great to hear! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This was so helpful! It’s crazy how much effort goes in to attending NYFW, but I’m sure it’s worth it. Thank you for sharing your advice and experiences!
Lauren | http://www.alilstyleblog.com
Reply
Glad you enjoyed the post! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This was so helpful! I’ll definitely be using this soon!
Reply
So glad you found these tips useful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Wow I never realized how intense the planning could be- but it sounds so fun! I want to try attending next year, thank you :)
xo
Phyllis
http://desgeulasse.com/Reply
It’s a lot of work but totally worth it! xoxo Cathy
Reply
So many things I want to say – 1) Thanks for sharing this!! I have always been a fan of sharing knowledge with others in this business but know that some will take advantage of that which can be discouraging. Glad you decided to share this how-to guide! 2) Could not agree MORE with the second to last paragraph. Blogging is work but still so fun and your readers don’t want to hear complaints the whole time! Great attitude about the whole process, Cathy!
-Morgan
How 2 Wear It [] http://how2wearit.comReply
You are so sweet, so glad you loved this post and thanks for your feedback! xoxo Cathy
Reply
I love posts like these and how open and honest you always are :) See you later girly :)
Reply
Thank you, you’re so sweet! xoxo Cathy
Reply
SO happy you shared this – answered so many of my questions! Thanks Cathy!!
xo – Marianne
http://www.thematimes.comReply
So glad it was so helpful for you!! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Thank you so much for posting this. I was always wondering how to do it! I also love that you are so honest, you are never afraid to say what bugs you about the industry! I love hearing your opinion, thank you!
Maddie
http://www.chiconthepeak.orgReply
Thank you so much! xoxo Cathy
Reply
I love reading your blog and the comic relief that it offers (go on with your bad self has cracked me up!) Any who, this post was so helpful and maybe someday we will all be headed to NYFW cause, who wouldn’t wanna go? Thanks for sharing!
Samantha
Reply
Haha! So glad you found this useful and funny! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This is actually quite insightful! Things I’ve thought of, but not quite exactly sure where to start. Can’t do September, but I’ll definitely be putting these things in to action for February!
Thanks!Reply
So glad you found this post so helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
I loved that you shared this and really appreciate it. It’s cool seeing successful bloggers be so open and sharing their tips like this. I was curious about other’s approach to attending and this answered so many questions!
Love your blog by the way!
Xo,
Miki
http://mikialamode.comReply
So happy you found this so helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Awesome post, Cathy! Well said! Always appreciate your realness.
xx
Jen
http://belledecouture.comReply
So glad you liked it! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Wonderfully informative! Thankyou for sharing!
Reply
You’re so welcome! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Thank you so much for sharing your tips with us! As a blogger thats pretty new to the scence it’s so nice to hear your about your experince!
xoxo
Sharan
http://www.MyGoldenBeauty.comReply
So glad you found it so informative! xoxo Cathy
Reply
These are great tips! As a small blogger I have wanted to attend fashion week but honestly felt overwhelmed with where to begin, you have made it much easier to digest!
XO,
Reply
So glad to hear that! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Pingback: Link Love & #NSale | a touch of teal
Pingback: The Weekend Guide
Thanks so much for taking the time to pull this together :) Such great info!!
xo Bree
http://bree-west.comReply
Glad it was helpful for you! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Very helpful post for those that aren’t experienced with NYFW but want to be a part of it. I also love the funny parts of this article. ?
Thanks for sharing!
Reply
Glad you enjoyed it! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Hi PLG! Its my first nyfw and LUCKILY ive got a press accreditation approved for this NYFW… Im a bit of confused on the next steps.. Should i be able to enter any show just by showing the credential ( at least standing?). Thx
See AlsoIs It Rude To Ask For A Plus One To A Wedding? The Answer Is More Complicated Than You Might ThinkReply
I have no idea I’ve never used a press pass before. xoxo Cathy
Reply
This made me feel really good! This will be my first fashion week as a non-intern of sorts and I’ll be representing a digital magazine I’ve been helping build. It’s been a really stressful set up and I feel bad that I’m getting everything in so late but this post definitely made me feel better!
Reply
So glad to hear your found it helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This was a really good read. You’re really the only blogger I know to share this information. Thank you so much!
Reply
You’re so welcome! xoxo Cathy
Reply
I just came across your blog/this post and this was SO insightful! Thank you for being straight up in this post and giving us lots of inside information! I’m hoping to go to NYFW this February (fingers crossed- definitely going to use these tips) and your post has been the first one I’ve read to actually share so much info! Thanks for the help!
XOXO | Aubrey
http://helloalley.com/Reply
So glad you found it so helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
I love thus, I am trying to make it thus February and I had nay idea where actually to begin and you helped me more than ever. Thanks so much. I will be starting this process tomorrow.
Reply
SO glad you found this post so helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Great post! I use Fashion Week Online (http://fashionweekonline.com) myself! Such great pics you have!!
Reply
That’s a great online resource too!! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Pingback: NYFW Schedule for Spring 2017 is coming together | New York Fashion Week
This was such an informative post! I wish I would’ve read it before I made the trip last September. It will be so helpful for next time!
Reply
So happy you found it so helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This was really great and well put together. Thanks for the write up!
Reply
So glad you found it helpful!! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Reply
What a great blog post. I was at a launch party during NYFW in Sept and am gearing up for my first real fashion week experience. I have a press pass as a blogger. Any suggestions for meeting brand reps and other bloggers? I’m a little intimidated.
Reply
I’d try joining any blogger/NYFW FB groups or just putting it out there on social media! A lot of bloggers are usually in the same boat and want to meet other people! xoxo Cathy
Reply
I’m literally almost in tears reading this. Thank you so much. So much. I feel like an entire weight of figuring things out just got lifted off my shoulders. Thank you thank you thank you.
Reply
Oh I’m so glad you found this post helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
I love your transparency. This was funny but real! Thank you for the tips.
Reply
You’re so welcome! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Dear Cathy,
thank you so much for being so generous by sharing these amazing tips with us all! I’m a new blogger, and i’ve never before been to nyfw, your post has helped me understand the process so much. I’m planning on attending the fall 17 shows, and I wanted to ask you, for someone as new as I am when I send the emails to request tickets, do the brands/pr agencies look at my blog, or the number of followers I have? What do they base their selection on?
Again thank you so much for your incredible tips, you rock!Reply
So glad you love the post! And honestly, they’ll base it on a number of different things so I’d work from now till ticket request time really bringing consistent, quality content to your blog and platforms so that way they can see your work! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This was so helpful!! Thanks so much!
Reply
Glad you enjoyed it! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This is a fantastic post with very valuable information. I’ve included it in my NYFW Bloggers’ Roundup which you can view here; http://thestylebouquet.com/2017/02/23/nyfw-blogger-round-up/
xo
Beth
http://www.TheStyleBouquet.comReply
So glad you found it so helpful, thanks of sharing! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This was so helpful! Thank you so much for this post!
Reply
So glad you found it so useful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Cathy, does this work as well for two?? I’m a social blogger and would love to bring a friend.
Reply
Hmm…I wouldn’t recommend asking to bring a friend to shows that’s not in the industry. Seating is VERY limited, especially for September shows. I wouldn’t encourage it. xoxo Cathy
Reply
Thank you for letting us know so much more about NYFW and debugging the mystery of NYFW!
Reply
You’re so welcome! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This is prob the most helpful article ive read on this matter last year was my first time.
Reply
So glad it was useful to you! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This is such a great post! Thank you for sharing all your notes, tips and realness.
Reply
So glad you found it so helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Love how thorough this post is! Definitely found some gems in there that I’m going to use. Thank you so much for sharing so generously :)
Reply
So glad you loved this post! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Great tips. Thank you’
Reply
Hey! I love your blog ..
I am a new online boutique owner. I am flying out to NYC (alone) on 10th sept until 13th. I just really want to get inspired, meet new people & of course network.
Obviously NYFW is my main reason for visiting. Really wanna get into my first fashion show..
Could you point me in the right direction? Or any tips would be amazing!
Thank you
FrancescaReply
Sooo extremely helpful! Thank you for all the amazing tips!! Definitely will do this for next year coming up!!
Reply
This post was super helpful to read! “It’s been my dream since I was a little girl to go to Fashion Week” (I had to, lol) , but I’m completely clueless on where to start/ how to even dip my toe in! This post helped, so thank you!
XX -KK
http://www.kayleekarcher.com/
#ObsessedWithEverythingReply
Hahaha! I know but it’s the truth…never want to use that in a NYFW pitch! So glad you found this post so helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This is extremely informative! I plan on reading it again.
Such an education and learning experience for sureReply
So glad you found it helpful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
This is so informative! Thank you for sharing!!
-bridgette
http://Www.justaroundtheneighborhood.comReply
I love this post! I’ve always wanted to go to NYFW so this was so insightful!!
xx Tess | Sequins are the New BlackReply
Glad you found it so useful! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Hi, so im currently following fashion week this year more than i ever did and theres definitely so much going on i was just wondering how do you know which shows to choose
Reply
It’s just based on what designers you like and what you’re able to get tickets too! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Hi! Quick question, when you mention meetings and showroom tour etc. what does that entail? I have never been to fashion week and am going this February. What is discussed in these meetings and how do you pitch to brands about borrowing their clothes to showcase during FW? Thanks girl!!
Reply
This is amazing! Thank you for your very honest and smart tips!!! I was browsing on the fashion week, your page shows up the first.
Reply
Thanks so much! xoxo Cathy
Reply
If I’m not a blogger how would I go about the same method, save requesting for collabs with hotels? I happen to have a brand and want to implement this strategy for Miami swim week
Reply
Not entirely sure exactly, as I’ve never done it from a brands perspective. But I’d say still utilizing the same method of finding contacts, sending emails, etc. xoxo Cathy
Reply
This was such a great post! thanks so much for sharing all your tips!!
Reply
Glad you enjoyed it!! xoxo Cathy
Reply
Pretty amazing post!
Reply
Amazing. Thanks so much for sharing! Will try my luck.
Reply
Thanks Cathy!! I want to join you some day?
Reply
I personally think your article is fascinating, interesting and amazing. I share some of your same beliefs on this topic. I like your writing style and will revisit your site.
Reply
This is such a great article, thank you so much for spending the time sharing your tips and tricks with us. I myself just went to NYFW and I was just invited for one show and I wish i had read your article perhaps I would have been more prepared and watched more shows. ; )
Next time I come to NY, I would love to set up a brunch with you. : )
Reply
so much effort goes in to attending NYFW, it so worth it tho! http://www.framezbyjhonnie.com
Reply
Hi Cathy,
Thank you so much for your insight! I went to my first NYFW last year in September, but not as a blogger. I worked backstage for the Art Hearts Fashion group. I’m working to go this February as a blogger, which I’m excited about, and I was researching on the topic and your blog post came out first! Thank you!
Reply
Thanks so much for the information!! (: what shows were your favorite?!
Reply
This was great info you shared! I am not a blogger or editor but I am a small boutique owner in DC and one of those girls you spoke about who always wanted to be in attendance at fashion week lol. Your article definitely gives me hope that I will get there one day soon!
Thanks Much!Reply
Wow thank you so much. This was beyond useful. I just moved here, a fashion designer trying to get in Nyc. Thank you so much, much appreciated.
Reply
Your information is very helpful for my daughter who is trying to get into the modeling industry! Thank you!
Reply
Check These Out Too.
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
