The 411 on Fashion Week

With New York Fashion Week a mere two weeks away, I'm here to fill everybody in on how the process works and what the purpose of the week is. First, I'll clear something up; fashion week in February displays Fall collections, and fashion week in September exhibits Spring collections. You may be asking yourself why designers' collections are shown so far in advance to the season they're for, that also comes with an explanation. The garments are shown this much ahead of time because buyers for department stores and boutiques attend the shows and must narrow down what they want in their stores next season. After fashion week, designers will hold market week so these buyers can come in and purchase the products for the stores they represent. Then, the manufacturing begins. By the time the clothes are shown, bought and made, the season is quickly approaching and they're in stores ready for average shoppers like us to purchase. It's a very confusing process, but knowing there two key facts will help you understand why fashion week falls so early each season.

Where does the magic happen? Well, the "main", most important fashion week in the U.S. is New York Fashion Week, also known as Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (they're the sponsor). All of the largest and most well-known designers will show at tents at Lincoln Center, which is located in uptown Manhattan. Throughout the city, smaller brands will host shows at their own locations, and even widespread brands like Oscar de la Renta, will host shows in their own showrooms, just like Fashion Week happened in the olden days. You might be asking how to get tickets to these shows, I'm still trying to figure that out myself... Ha! The shows are very exclusive and filled with photographers, buyers and editors from fashion publications. But even if you stand outside Lincoln Center, you'll see well-known fashion icons exiting the shows and observe an immense amount of street style. I think that's what I'll be doing this year! Fashion Week is very dynamic, and really proves that the fashion industry really is all business. It's a stressful time of year for everyone involved, but if you're able to see the creativity and craftsmanship put into the clothes despite how busy you are, it will be truly enjoyable. Now do you all understand how it works? Maybe? Maybe not... When NYFW rolls around February 7th, try to pay attention. Google "fashion week" and you'll get to see some looks for yourself.

Until next time.

xx, ZM