A Detroiter in New York: My Trip to New York Fashion Week

I recently attended a couple New York Fashion Week shows with my best friend. Here’s a glimpse into my busy weekend. 

Day 1, Friday 

1 p.m. – Landed at JFK airport!

I took a shuttle service from JFK to Grand Central Station through the company NYC Airporter. It was only $19, which is quite cheap for NYC transportation. I'd very much recommend this cost-effective alternative. On the way to Manhattan, I realized that NYC drivers live up to their movie personas – ruthless.

2:50 p.m. – Arriving to the hotel 

We stayed at the Hilton Grand Central in midtown east Manhattan on 42nd Street. Honestly, if you’re in NYC for the first time, this is perfect. It’s right in the middle of Manhattan! You get the hustle and bustle atmosphere, but this area isn’t quite as busy as Times Square. Here are some pictures I snapped while exploring the area.

 

The New York Public Library

3:30 p.m. – Lunch at Shake Shack!

Shake Shack in NYC is the best. We may have gone a bit overboard, but I have no regrets. 

8 p.m. – Arrived at the Mint Swim fashion show at Cipriani

We walked a few blocks to the show and arrived just after 8 p.m. This fashion show was definitely all I envisioned a NYFW show to be. The venue, Cipriani, was stunning – high ceilings, marble and chandeliers. From the Motown, old-school music to the diverse group of models, this was a really solid show. The energy and the outfits were inspiring. I didn’t fully know what to expect, but I enjoyed being in such a creative space where innovation and hard work is celebrated.

I learned that when it comes to dressing for shows, there aren’t many rules. I also learned the importance of bringing a friend. One of my favorite parts was talking about the designs after the shows. Plus, it’s nice having someone to help you navigate through the madness. Side note: LaLa Anthony sat directly in front of us. I also spotted Diddy’s sons Justin and Christian Combs. 

11 p.m. – Dinner at Serendipity 3

I’m still dreaming about this frozen hot chocolate from Serendipity, a popular NYC restaurant. The decor is quirky and fun, and the desserts do not disappoint. Believe the hype. NYC has the best restaurants. 

Day 2, Saturday

1 p.m. – The Society Fashion Show at The Roosevelt Hotel

This show was more low-key and relaxing than the Mint Swim. Six designers showed collections: Vino Supraja, TeAta Amoon, ShaLaJá Swimwear, Ellena de Luna, Little Royals and Le Cattleya. My favorite line was Ellena de Luna; it featured lots of snakeskin, leather and militant themes, and our view from the front row definitely made it feel like a Carrie Bradshaw moment.

TeAta Amoon

ShaLaJá Swimwear

Ellena de Luna

Little Royals

3:30 p.m. – Shopping time

The Lord & Taylor in NYC blew me away – all ten floors of it! So, of course, we had to try on a few sunglasses for the sake of extraness.

9 p.m. – Dinner at Sylvia’s Kitchen

We trekked all the way to Harlem via subway to eat here. I had the fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, yams, black-eyed peas and sweet potato pie. If you’re in NYC and want high-quality soul food in a friendly environment, Sylvia’s is the spot. On the way back, we stopped at Grand Central Station.