New York Fashion Week is in full swing, and the streets of Manhattan (and, occasionally, Brooklyn) are awash in the sartorial spectrum – from the impeccably dressed to the utterly bizarre. This kickoff to fashion month brings a distinct “back-to-school” energy: everyone’s back from summer vacation, the weather is crisp, and old friends reunite for a semi-annual fashion frenzy. But beneath the glamorous facade, a certain chaos lurks. Everyone, especially those with actual jobs, endures a grueling schedule of sweaty, cranky, and undernourished days, their feet battered by the latest footwear trends, all with no luxurious hotel sanctuary between shows.
Despite the illusion of individual uniqueness, New York Fashion Week attendees inevitably fall into familiar archetypes. There are the stone-faced editors, the DSLR-toting street style photographers, and those relegated to the dreaded second row. And let’s not forget the power-hungry publicists, the determined show crashers, and the bewildered New Yorkers just trying to navigate their daily lives amidst the fashion frenzy. We’ve compiled a guide to these recurring figures you’re bound to encounter this week—and throughout the month—so you can navigate the chaotic world of Fashion Week with confidence.
The Aspiring Influencer:
Armed with a DSLR and a dream, this individual might not know much about fashion, but they’ll happily snap a photo of anyone daring to pair Adidas track jackets with tiered maxi skirts and ballet flats. Don’t expect a tag in their Instagram dump, though—you’re not famous enough. In the era of “everything is content,” your favorite (or least favorite) influencer is front row, filming every single moment with practiced, jaded expressions, sunglasses firmly in place. They create minor traffic jams on the runway for impromptu photo shoots, and later, your TikTok algorithm will bombard you with their NYFW recap featuring multiple outfit changes between each show.The Overworked Publicist:
This woman on the verge of a nervous breakdown runs the show like a well-oiled machine. No one is a VIP in her book unless you are, well, an actual VIP—or a friend. If you’re lucky enough to fall into either category, you’ll be ushered through the door with a practiced “right this way, madam.” And don’t even think about suggesting that you’d be happy with a seat in the back; PR has the audacity to place them anywhere but front row, after all. They have a reputation to uphold, and their followers need to know just how exclusive their world is.The Brand Ambassador:
Contractually obligated to be present, this individual isn’t here for the clout, but for work. They slip into their front-row seat with quiet efficiency, notebook and pen in hand, dressed in an impeccably tailored uniform of black or impeccably tailored jeans and tees. They’re not here to play the influencer game; they’re here to observe, analyze, and, ultimately, work.The Fashion Editor:
Amidst the fashion frenzy, they are the true celebrities. Their presence signals the start of the show, and they don’t care who’s late. Their authority is unquestioned, so you’d better uncross your legs before you trip a model. The show must go on!The Clueless Companion:
Their manager insisted on bringing them, but they have absolutely no idea what’s going on. They’re drawing attention, but not for their athletic prowess or because they stick out like a sore thumb, but rather due to the skewed straight women to straight men ratio at these events.The Content Creators:
These bold individuals fearlessly approach VIPs, iPhone cameras already recording. “Really quick, can you just say hi to our readers?” they ask, attempting a full-blown interview with the designer. Their mission is clear: capture content, no matter the cost.The Designer’s Family:
The designer’s most devoted fans, their family is there, providing unwavering love and support, though perhaps not entirely understanding the spectacle. They’re thrilled their black sheep child has become a successful (and somewhat employed) adult.The Brand Enthusiast:
They’ve spent enough money on the label to earn an invitation. Head-to-toe in the designer’s latest offerings (purchased at full price, of course), they’ll happily ignore the chaos until it becomes their problem. When out-of-towners in outrageous outfits clog the sidewalk, they’ll be the first to let you know you need to move.New York Fashion Week is a spectacle, a whirlwind of style and personalities. But beneath the surface of designer clothes and curated images, there are real people navigating a world of fashion, and it’s a world worth exploring. So, keep your eyes peeled for these archetypes, and remember, fashion week is all about having fun and embracing the absurdity—and don’t forget to watch your step.
