Fashion Week February 2024: A Unique Experience

This past Fashion Week was a whirlwind that left an indelible mark on my fashion journey. As always, I eagerly made my way to New York City, but this time, I chose a different mode of transportation—the Jet Bus. Let me tell you, the ride was a refreshing departure from the cramped commutes of the past. Arriving amidst the city lights, honking cars, and towering billboards, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement reminiscent of flying into Vegas, where the energy is palpable from the moment you touch down. I hadn’t been to New York for Fashion Week since 2019 because of the pandemic, but I digress...

One standout moment was my stay at the Hendrix Hotel in the Garment District. Its modest animal print decor and spacious bathroom was a pleasant NYC surprise. Although I must confess, the absence of a wall mirror in my room caught me off guard when it was time to gear up for my first show. I was slightly annoyed but made do.

Navigating Fashion Week post-pandemic provided its own set of challenges. A late-night quest for a simple dinner revealed a quieter city, with many establishments closing earlier than expected. We’re talking 10:30 pm! The streets felt emptier, and the once-thriving restaurants were noticeably quieter—a stark reminder of the toll the pandemic had taken on urban life. Despite our best efforts, finding a late-night meal turned into a hard stop, with only the golden arches offering sustenance amidst our Greenwich and Chelsea wanderings. Needless to say, I would’ve gone to bed hungry if it weren’t for my chips in the hotel room.

As for the fashion shows, they offered a mixed bag of emotions and experiences. Attending seven shows, including showroom presentations and runways, allowed me to witness firsthand the resilience and creativity of the industry. Among them, one designer left an indelible impression: Mondo from Project Runway. His journey from reality TV to fashion stardom exemplifies courage and innovation. He’s only one of three designers from Project Runway that I can name who’ve had notable success outside of the show.

However, amidst the “glitz and glamour” of Fashion Week, the street style scene felt somewhat lackluster. An influx of influencers posing perilously close to oncoming traffic for the perfect shot highlighted a shift towards manufactured moments over genuine expression. It was a stark departure from the authentic street style moments I had come to cherish, leaving me wondering whether social media has become a catalyst for creative theft rather than inspiration.

Gathering with my friend on our final night, we couldn't help but reflect on the evolution of Fashion Week and its impact on our spirits. The magic of previous years seemed elusive, replaced by a sense of disillusionment and detachment. Has Fashion Week lost its soul amidst the chaos of social media and commercialization? It's a question I continue to grapple with as I navigate the ever-changing landscape of the industry.

In the end, Fashion Week February 2024 served as a poignant reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the fashion world. While challenges persist, so too does the unwavering passion and creativity that drive us forward. Perhaps the industry is still finding its footing in the wake of the pandemic, or as it fights fast fashion's grip, but one thing remains certain: the spirit of innovation and expression will always shine on the runway. Only time will tell where the future of Fashion Week leads us, but one thing is for certain—I'll be there, ready to embrace whatever comes next.

-Tempestt