Contents

• What is the Fashion Show Dress Code?
• What Influencers Are Wearing to Fashion Shows
  
• Tips on What to Wear for a Fashion Show
• Where to Stay for Fashion Week
  
• Where to Find Fashion Show Outfit Ideas
  

What is the Fashion Show Dress Code?

Unlike a black-tie function, there are no hard or fast rules for what to wear to a fashion show. When you’re choosing your outfit, you’ll want to choose something that aligns with the brand’s aesthetic. If you’re going to a fashion show for a streetwear designer, you can embrace a more casual look. If you’re invited to an event by a luxury fashion house, choose a more elevated outfit.

Photo: Look Studio / Shutterstock.com 

You’ll also want to consider when and where the fashion show is happening. It’s common for brands to host events at different times throughout the day – and in outdoor venues. Generally, outdoor events are typically more casual, while indoor events hosted in historical locations like museums and galleries call for a dressier outfit. The same is true for morning vs. evening events. 

What Influencers Are Wearing to Fashion Shows

While a celebrity can be a style muse, it’s not always easy to steal their look. Influencers – although often sponsored by the fashion brands hosting the shows they’re attending – showcase more accessible outfits.

Whether you’re attending one show or have an itinerary of events for Fashion Week, there are a few tried-and-tested staples beloved by influencers. A blazer is a ride-or-die staple, the perfect way to instantly elevate a minimalistic outfit and transition your look from day to night. 

Most influencers rely on versatile pieces they can mix and match to create different outfits that feel uniquely their own. Pantsuits, nicknamed amongst fashion aficionados as “power suits”, are comfortable, chic, and stylish for any setting. If you’re heading to a fashion show with friends, take a leaf from the influencer styling book and coordinate your outfits.

Photo: Lia Koltyrina / Shutterstock.com

Accessories are a quick and effective way to make your outfits standout. Influencers will use hair accessories, layered jewelry, and statement handbags to capture the aesthetic of the shows they’re attending or incorporate their personalities into their outfits.

Tips on What to Wear for a Fashion Show

No two fashion week outfits look exactly the same – and that’s the beauty of fashion. Don’t be afraid to build your outfit around a bold color or a statement piece, but an understated look can be just as impactful. A little black dress can give you the confidence you need to feel comfortable at your first show with a timeless outfit. 

Here are some of our top tips for planning your fashion show outfit:

Check the Weather!

Before you start planning your NYFW outfits, plan for all weather situations. Layers are your best friend during fashion week, making it easier to anticipate unexpected weather changes – especially if you’re taking public transport. Unless you’re sitting front row, you can usually expect a wait before getting inside the venue for your show. Don’t forget about comfort. Bring a “tote bag” to switch out your show shoes for a more comfortable pair when traveling or waiting around.

Photo: Victoria Fox / Shutterstock.com

Prioritize Accessories 

Accessories are your best friend. If you’re on a budget, focus on picking up 1-2 accessories that make your outfit “pop”. Style your outfit around them, whether it’s a statement clutch bag or oversized sparkly earrings. 

Be Practical, Stay Simple

Don’t overthink your outfit. There are little things you can do to elevate an outfit and make it look more expensive. Drape your jacket over your shoulders, layer necklaces together, or try something fun with your hair. 

Fashion Week is a time to experiment with style, but you still want to be practical with your outfit. If you’re attending multiple shows or events, you can expect to have a back-to-back schedule, dashing across the city and catching up with fellow showgoers. Functional shoes are a must-have, even if you’re carrying them in a tote bag. Wearing bicycle shorts under your skirt can make your outfit more comfortable, while a shorter hemline is usually best avoided as you’ll be moving around.

Photo: New Africa / Shutterstock.com

 All-Day Makeup

Your makeup is the finishing touch to your outfit. If you’re going to a runway show, you might want to experiment with a bold eyeshadow look or red lipstick. The secret to all-day makeup during Fashion Week is to create a solid base. Start with a primer before applying makeup and keep a setting spray on hand to touch-up your base throughout the day.

Where to Find Fashion Show Outfit Ideas

While most celebrities will hire a stylist for NYFW, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to get outfit inspiration. Pinterest is your best friend for finding outfit ideas, either by searching for city-inspired looks or previous outfits influencers and celebrities have worn to other fashion week shows. 

If there’s a celebrity or influencer with a similar aesthetic to yours, focus on their outfits for inspiration. Influencers now sit shoulder-to-shoulder with the likes of Anna Wintour, Victoria Beckham, and Kim Kardashian at NYFW. Scroll through TikTok or Instagram and check out frequent NYFW attendees like Victoria Magrath, Arielle Charnas, and Amelia Liana. 

Book Your Accommodation for Fashion Week with ZenHotels 

At ZenHotels, we’re here to bring your travel vision board to life. Tick NYFW or a visit to another fashion capital off your bucket list in 2025.

Photo: StrDr stock / Shutterstock.com

Get access to the best rates on hotels and accommodation in over 220+ countries on our website or download the ZenHotels mobile app to access exclusive rates. 

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