Fashion week, oh glorious Fashion Week. A time that sees the world’s leading fashion designers and brands showcase their work to the masses — or in this case, the select few deemed worthy of attending. The audience in question generally includes Hollywood elite, up–and–coming artists, influencers, and the one percent, who own more or less everything we consume, live, and breathe. It’s the ultimate showcase, not just of fashion, but of influence. To be invited is to be deemed worthy in the eyes of today’s modern society.
As we like to be handy — we’ve devised our own little guide on how to do Fashion Week SS24 right. We’ve done so with the help of our close friend and stylist to the stars, Natalie Robinson. Right, suit up — there’s a lot to go through.
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK
WHEN: September 7 to 10
THREE SHOWS TO ATTEND: The Blonds. It’s eclectic, exhilarating, creative, and it’s often frequented by many celebrities. Gabriela Hearst. More so her accessories collection, which to date is loved by the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Demi Moore, and Laura Dern. Lastly, Tory Birch. The collections are usually filled with colour, fun, and more often than not, are quite quirky.
BEST SHOWS FOR CELEB SPOTTING: Thome Browne often attracts the likes of Whoopi Goldberg, Queen Latifah, and Jesse Williams. While Pamela Rolland’s shows are commonly attended by the likes of Nicky Hilton Rothschild, Jay Manuel, and Brooks Nader. Michael Kors is another celeb favourite, with names such as Lily Aldridge and Katie Holmes usually sitting FROW.
EXCLUSIVE INSIDER TIP: Networking is the only way up in the Big Apple. Your Instagram profile is your business card, so be sure to take your phone everywhere you go.
WHAT TO WEAR – MEN: It’s all about luxury sporting attire or a simple smart/ casual look. Think of New York Fashion Week as similar to that of London, where you’d wear clothes that are cool yet eccentric, vibrant yet expressive, and colourful yet individualistic.
WHAT TO WEAR – WOMEN: Mix and matching outfits are key. I suggest pairing a staple pencil skirt with a classic white tee. Complete this look with a tailored jacket and a set of Dr. Martens or ankle boots.
HOW TO ARRIVE IN STYLE: Have your driver drop you off directly on the step and repeat.
HOW TO GET INVITED TO THE AFTERPARTIES: It’s all about confidence and networking. To put it quite simply, in order to be invited, you have to ask.
WHERE TO STAY: Hudson New York. It’s located in the heart of New York and is within walking distance of Broadway.
WHERE TO EAT: Nobu Fifty Seven.
LONDON FASHION WEEK
WHEN: September 15 to 19
THREE SHOWS TO ATTEND: Paul Costelloe. His collections traditionally open London Fashion Week. It’s a true representation of British culture and heritage, mixed with a dash of quirky fashion. Costelloe aside, Alice Temperley is another must–see. Her collections usually feature stunning evening wear and attract a truly star–studded audience. Rounding up the top three would be Julien Macdonald. Admired by celebs, Macdonald’s shows are known to be fun, energetic, and to take place in the most grandiose of venues.
BEST SHOWS FOR CELEB SPOTTING: Alice Temperley regularly attracts the likes of Poppy Delevingne, Kate Hudson, Laura Bailey, and Florence Welch. Then there’s Julien Macdonald, who is loved by everyone from Winnie Harlow to Amanda Holden and Ashley Roberts. Lastly, Burberry has immense star–appeal, with Justin and Hailey Bieber usually sitting in the front row, alongside Jason Statham and Rosie Huntington–Whiteley.
EXCLUSIVE INSIDER TIP: Don’t name–drop if you want to fit in — it’s considered rude and nobody likes a show–off.
WHAT TO WEAR – MEN: Quirky fashion is in. Think Harry Styles, in the sense of wearing a suit without a shirt. Should you wish to wear a shirt, make sure it’s floral, mesh or sheer. If you’re not feeling as daring, keep it simple with a pair of crisp trainers, topped with a pop of colour — which you can add through your shirt or blazer.
WHAT TO WEAR – WOMEN: These days, it’s all about layering or the Y2K trend that’s being spearheaded by Gen Z — the style is typically futuristic with a slightly retro edge. Think wide–leg jeans, paired with shiny jackets, baby tees, and platform shoes.
HOW TO ARRIVE IN STYLE: By helicopter. Several of London’s leading hotels are just a 40–minute chopper ride away from the venue.
HOW TO GET INVITED TO THE AFTERPARTIES: The only way to get in is to know someone going, or the brands’ PRs. Otherwise, it’s near impossible.
WHERE TO STAY: Sofitel London St James. Located in the heart of Central London, the hotel is just a stone’s throw away from Piccadilly Station — ultra convenient.
WHERE TO EAT: Mortimer House. It’s home to some of the finest Mediterranean food in the city.
MILAN FASHION WEEK
WHEN: September 19 to 25
THREE SHOWS TO ATTEND: Moschino. It’s fun, exciting, artistic, and loved by just about every A–lister known to man. Giorgio Armani. The collections are beautiful, the tailoring is classic, and much like Moschino, it’s a celeb spotting dream. Alberta Ferretti is another. The attention to detail is exceptionally impressive and the dresses are just stunning.
BEST SHOWS FOR CELEB SPOTTING: Stars such as Ashley Graham, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Heidi Klum often attend Moschino. While Jennifer Lopez, Dua Lipa, Gwen Stefani, and Lady Gaga can be seen sitting FROW at Roberto Cavalli. Giorgio Armani is another great one. Nafessa Williams, Laura Haddock, and Kyra Kennedy are just three celebs that you can expect to see.
EXCLUSIVE INSIDER TIP: The best way to get noticed is to be likeable. So, look glamorous and always remember to smile.
WHAT TO WEAR – MEN: Milan is all about glamour — so, a tailored, cutaway shirt topped with a three–quartered coat and flat–fronted trousers will do just fine. As for shoes, keep it simple with a classic leather pairing.
WHAT TO WEAR – WOMEN: Milan is all about subtle nods to fashion. The perfect outfit would be to pair a faux fur coat with a narrow, straight–cut trouser and a Bardot style top. Complete your look with minimal accessories and a statement bag.
HOW TO ARRIVE IN STYLE: A black Bentley will do just fine.
HOW TO GET INVITED TO THE AFTERPARTIES: Look glamorous and socialise every night.
WHERE TO STAY: Bulgari Hotel Milano. It’s a timeless classic and is located just minutes away from the MFW fun.
WHERE TO EAT: Brera. It’s a quaint neighbourhood that features some of the best restaurants in Milan. It’s also home to a number of art galleries, such as the Pinacoteca di Brera gallery should you wish to explore the city’s rich art scene.
PARIS FASHION WEEK
WHEN: September 25 to October 3
THREE SHOWS TO ATTEND: Balmain. The collections are all about power dressing, and you can wear a statement outfit without feeling out of place. The vibe of Balmain is bold, fearless, and unapologetic. You’re bound to bump into a Kardashian as they love the Balmain brand. Chanel. The fashion is timeless and it is, without doubt, one of the most famous shows of Paris Fashion Week. Valentino. It epitomises exquisite glam with a touch of traditional elegance.
BEST SHOWS FOR CELEB SPOTTING: If you’re a fan of Jaden Smith, Pharrell Williams and Miranda Kerr, head to Louis Vuitton. If you’re more of a Kristen Stewart fan, head to Chanel, where she and the likes of Penelope Cruz and Nicole Richie usually attend. Elie Saab is another great one for celeb –spotting, with Sarah Rafferty, Olivia Palermo, and Ciara being just three of the show’s regulars.
EXCLUSIVE INSIDER TIP: Arriving fashionably late is a concept that does not exist at PFW. Get to the venue early or risk losing your seat and missing the show. There are no exceptions to the rules — not even for celebrities.
WHAT TO WEAR – MEN: A classic, well –tailored suit, paired with a three –quarter length coat and patent leather shoes. The outfit is chic, versatile, and warm enough for the mild climate experienced during PFW.
WHAT TO WEAR – WOMEN: An oversized printed coat jacket, complete with a pair of green or pink trousers and a neutral – tone blouse. Accessorize your look with a clutch bag and stilettos aka Parisian chic.
HOW TO ARRIVE IN STYLE: By helicopter. Not only does it look cool, it also seems to be the only way to beat the horrendous traffic.
HOW TO GET INVITED TO THE AFTERPARTIES: Look, think, and feel demure. Say less but look the part.
WHERE TO STAY: Shangri –La Paris. It has spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower and is home to the only Chinese Michelin starred restaurant in Paris, Shang Palace.
WHERE TO EAT: Le –Tout Paris. The venue is Instagram worthy, the food is delicious, and the people who frequent the venue are jaw – droppingly gorgeous.
About Natalie Robinson
Natalie has, for the past two decades, been a red carpet and fashion week regular, often lending her words to a string of international publications and styling everyone from up – and –coming influencers to Hollywood royalty for the likes of Fashion Week, film premieres, and, just recently the 2023 Oscars. To see some of her iconic looks, visit her Instagram page, @styleiconnat.
Follow www.abtraveller.com and @abtravellerme to stay updated on the latest travel news
