2018 New York Fashion Week Experience

Hi loves!

My name is Jessica, the Spring Marketing Intern here at VDV! I recently had the wonderful opportunity to attend New York Fashion week with a Marketing and PR Agency I work for, and wanted to share my experience with you all! When I was first offered the opportunity, my first reaction was to just say "Yes!" I didn't know the dates, if I could miss school, where I would be staying, or any other details other than I was given a chance to attend the renowned NYFW. I knew I had to do whatever was necessary to make it happen.

I headed out Thursday (2/8) afternoon and returned Tuesday (2/13) morning. Most of the Marketing and PR team was already in New York which meant I had to fly there and back alone. I preplanned all my outfits ahead of time to avoid over packing and complete panic when getting ready for the shows. Finding clothes that were both warm and stylish proved to be quite a challenge. Being born and raised in sunny San Diego, where the weather never varies from 75 degrees by more than 5 degrees year-round, my winter wardrobe was severely slacking. I pulled several items from my mom's closet and borrowed a few wool coats from friends. I always give my mom a hard time for holding onto her clothes from the 80's, but when it came time to pack, I was very glad she still had them. Bag packed, snacks stashed away in my carry on, boarding pass and fashion show schedule printed - I was ready to go.

Stepping off the plane, I was greeted by the cold and crisp New York air. My body, being used to the 70-degree weather, was instantly shivering in the 27-degree weather. I knew I would only be in New York a few short days, so I had to hit the ground running. I met with the other team members around 11 pm that night and discussed the plan for the week. None of us went to bed before 3 am and had to get up at 5:30 am the following morning for the first show. I was very quickly learning why New York is called the city that never sleeps.

Over the course of 4 days, I attended over thirteen shows and showroom events. The shows and events were scattered over the city, mainly in Manhattan. We used the subway, Uber, and fast pace walking as modes of transportation. Each show varied in their length, venue, decor, level of organization, number of models, music, and of course, designs. However, something I repeatedly noticed in every show was the use of sequins, faux fur, and mesh or sheer fabric. The first show I attended, I didn't take a single photo because I was so mesmerized. I just sat front row, legs crossed, and jaw dropped. Blinking as infrequently as possible.

The trip felt simultaneously incredibly long and yet, as if I had only just arrived. Early in the morning on the 13th, I reluctantly boarded my plane at JFK. I felt a sense of accomplishment and nostalgia. Although I will not miss the bone-chilling air, I will certainly miss just about everything else New York has to offer. I am incredibly thankful for the experience and hope to attend Fashion Week again in the near future!