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How to Get Invited to NYFW

Updated June 7, 2025

Want to know how to get invited to NYFW (New York Fashion Week)?

Whether you’re an upcoming designer, blogger, influencer, or simply love fashion, our helpful guide provides some easy ways to attend one of fashion’s most iconic events.

When NYFW or other highly coveted fashion events come around, fashion enthusiasts do their best to score an invitation. If you are interested in a career fashion, you know an invitation is like a holy grail. But what can you do in the way of New York Fashion Week outreach or get the attention of fashion brands?

What is NYFW

New York Fashion Week (NYFW) is a semiannual event. It’s where top designers, fashion houses, and emerging talent showcase their upcoming collections. Held in February and September, NYFW sets the tone for the fashion industry.

Organized in part by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), NYFW includes a mix of runway shows, pop-up events, parties, and panels.

For designers, it’s a platform to build buzz and establish trends. For attendees, it’s a mix of fashion, networking, and visibility. The mere mention of Fashion Week evokes an irresistible allure, shrouded in exclusivity and glamour. As you already know, it is the epitome of the fashion calendar. Navigating the path to securing a coveted invitation to your favorite designer(s) at Fashion Week isn’t easy, but don’t lose hope.

Make your fashion dream a reality.

NYFW – The Basics

Each year, the specific dates of New York Fashion Week can vary slightly, as they are determined by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA).

  • February presents Fall/Winter collections
  • September showcases Spring/Summer collections

These shows set the tone for trends and styles that will influence the industry in the coming seasons. If you know, you know. (And if you don’t, revisit that iconic Meryl Streep moment in The Devil Wears Prada.)

NYFW is a culmination of runway shows, presentations, and various glamorous events. The select audience is full of fashion editors, buyers, celebrities, and influencers. Each show attracts attention for its high-profile attendees and influence on global fashion trends.

Who Is Invited to Fashion Week

When Fashion Week rolls around, we are inundated with images of our favorite celebrities with the coveted seat assignment. The front-row seats are often reserved for editors, celebrities, buyers, stylists, and industry insiders. Industry guest lists are sent invitations from designers or their PR teams.

Not everyone who attends New York Fashion Week gets there with a golden ticket. Many attendees have to work for their seat. Not all hope is lost, but here are a few people that may need to put some effort in for their invitation:

  • Rising influencers
  • New-to-the-scene stylists
  • Fashion students

To gain an invitation, it is important to take the proper steps and build relationships. Stylists and influencers should develop a stronger online presence and be part of ‘the conversation’.

Journalists, bloggers, and photographers can apply for press passes through NYFW’s official site or directly with show producers.

How to Get Invited to Fashion Week

Depending on your career or career path, there are a few different ways to attempt access to an influential runway show. Review your options below.

Build Your Online Presence and Visibility

Gaining recognition in the fashion world starts with a strong online presence.

Leverage social platforms like Instagram and TikTok to create a curated and engaging feed. Showcase your personal style, fashion insights, and creative work—whether it’s design, styling, or commentary.

Compliment your social media with a professional portfolio or blog.

  • Share with your audience inspirations, offer trend analysis, and fashion tips. Go beyond outfit social media posts by giving your audience a deeper look into your creative process. Share what inspires your style—whether it’s art, travel, vintage fashion, or cultural influences. Offer commentary on current fashion trends and what they might mean for everyday wear or future collections. You can also provide practical tips, like how to style certain silhouettes or transition looks between seasons. This positions you as a knowledgeable voice, not just a content creator. Mix with social media channels and thoughtful blog posts.
  • Collaborate with local designers and meetings with brands to build real-world connections. Reach out to emerging designers, independent boutiques, or local fashion collectives to create content together. Consider a photoshoot, capsule feature, or co-hosted event. These collaborations not only add depth to your portfolio but also connect your name to other respected voices in the fashion scene. Tagging and cross-promotion also help expand your reach while reinforcing your credibility.
  • Participate in fashion-related social events, contribute to industry publications, and position yourself as a thought leader. Attend local runway shows, pop-ups, social events, or networking mixers. Look for various ways to stay connected with your regional fashion ecosystem. Submit articles or insights to blogs, online magazines, or industry newsletters. Focus on style commentary, designer spotlights, or sustainable fashion practices. Consistently producing thoughtful, well-researched content.
    Use your platform to show you’re more than a fashion lover—you’re a professional with a point of view worth listening to.

Speak with fellow bloggers to see how they are navigating their race to New York Fashion Week. Fashion people help each other out.

Apply Through Official Channels

If you are a fashion blogger, influencer, journalist, or other part of the media have a more direct route to New York Fashion Week. This is through official accreditation. IMG offers an application process. If qualified, you can apply for press credentials through NYFW. They require documentation (e.g. media kit, audience demographics).

Some media has found success connecting directly with their PR contacts or event producers. Present yourself as someone who will bring visibility and value to the show(s) you’re requesting.

Tips:

  • Draft a professional, personalized pitch email
  • Update media kit and relevant links
  • Highlight your reach, relevance, and industry-related credibility
  • Send follow-up emails to confirm

Attend Public or Ticketed Shows

Not every Fashion Week event is exclusive or invite-only.

Often, you will see up-and-coming designers hosting ticketed of open-to-public shows. It is a chance for them to build their audience and generate a buzz. Research these types of shows on Eventbrite, Fashion Week Online, and other sources. Do you research early and request tickets asap.

Look for additional events such as pop-ups, installations, and showroom presentations. They are a great way to view new collections and network.

Tips:

  • Monitor FashionWeekOnline.com
  • Check for events on Eventbrite.com
  • Follow brand Instagram pages
  • Sign up for newsletters

Student & Volunteer Access

If you’re a fashion student or early in your career, volunteering or applying through educational programs. With special events like this, production companies and PR firms rely on volunteers. Help with guest check-in, backstage coordination, and logistical support. Gain behind-the-scenes experience AND a seat at the show.

Tips:

  • Ask your school’s fashion department or career services
  • Search online for NYFW volunteer or internship programs
  • Follow NYFW production companies on LinkedIn or Instagram

The Fashion Week Journey

Persistence and patience are key on your NYFW journey.  Understanding the competitive nature of the fashion industry is crucial. There are so many talented and interesting people that love designer fashion. Securing an invitation requires both skill and tenacity. Not getting an invite does not mean you don’t have what it takes. Sometimes, connections and the right moment can change everything. So don’t get discouraged. (You can also look into other types of fashion events such as fashion trades shows to build experience and your network.)

Staying committed to the process is a testament to your dedication to the world of fashion. It involves refining your craft, networking tirelessly, and adapting to trends.

What to Wear to NYFW

New York Fashion Week is the ultimate stage for personal style. From bold streetwear to refined couture, there’s no one-size-fits-all dress code. Just remember that presentation is everything. A perfectly styled look can lose its impact if it’s wrinkled, stained, or poorly fitted. That’s where expert garment care comes in.

Rely on professional dry cleaners like Hallak to press, steam, and prep their NYFW outfits ahead of time. Whether you’re debuting a vintage designer piece or a statement coat, crisp tailoring and clean lines make a lasting impression. It’s your look—let it shine, wrinkle-free and photo-ready.

New York Fashion Week Aspirations

Never give up. If your dream is to make it to New York Fashion Week, then keep working at it.

Even if you don’t make it to NYFW, the journey can be just as fun and exciting. Along the way, you will meet many talented people who can help you elevate your craft. And you can certainly consider that a success! See you in New York City and hold onto your passion for fashion.

 

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