The dazzling spectacle that is New York Fashion Week (NYFW) was last week from February 9th to 14th. NYC was buzzing with designers and trendsetters strutting their stuff. Trust me, the outfits were beyond! I highly recommend extending a work trip or planning a workcation to attend fashion week shows and events– stayed tuned for an article on how!
According to a study by the University of Rochester and Taiwan National University, the trends we see at fashion shows like NYFW really do influence our day-to-day style. But let’s be real, some of those runway ensembles are more fantasy than reality, right?
As a Bleisure bestie, I don’t have to tell you about all the perks of WFH life but one drawback is that we forgot how to dress for anything besides Netflix marathons and grocery runs. I’ve got some handy tips to help you leverage all that NYFW insp to look your best and impress at your next presentation, coffee chat, 1:1, off-site etc.
Watch the shows
Ok, this seems like a given, but you’d be surprised how often people tell me they have no idea where to watch the shows or find out what brands showed at NYFW. You can watch the NYFW shows on their official website or Youtube. Often times when we think runway we think extravagant drama but not everything at fashion week is couture or avant-garde. Lots of looks on the runway are already ready to wear and accessible in our every day outfits. As you watch, take note of the brands or pieces you really like. Even if the piece itself isn’t something you’d wear IRL, you can still use that inspiration when shopping.
Go for big picture themes
Take a closer look at those runway stunners and break down the elements that make them stand out. Instead of getting lost in the details, focus on the big picture themes that can easily translate to your everyday wardrobe. Some trends I saw across this NYFW are bows (they’re not going anywhere just yet, yay!), capes, soft ruffles, layering with a harness, and statement sleeves. While you may not wear giant puff sleeves or a long trailing cape, you can definitely incorporate more wearable, less dramatic versions of these trends. Go to your favorite store’s site and search for the general trends eg. lots of cute cape options at Nordstrom!
Make sure you’ll actually wear it
Now, before you go all in on that avant-garde inspired ensemble, pause for a reality check. Ask yourself: will I actually wear this? Never ever wear something only because it’s trendy or was big at fashion week. Be true to yourself, considering your lifestyle, comfort, and individual taste. Style is all about self expressing, so choose pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable, whether you’re strolling through a new city or sipping lattes with your team.
Get ready to slay the sidewalk, boardroom, and Zoom room like it’s your own personal catwalk!!
