My Weekend at NYFW: From Glamour to Creative Spaces
This September, I had the amazing opportunity to spend a few days immersed in the vibrant scene of New York Fashion Week (NYFW), attending networking events and fashion shows from September 6–8. From unexpected venues to an impromptu birthday celebration, my weekend offered a true taste of the city’s creative energy. Here’s a recap of my time at NYFW!
A Unique Runway at Raul Penaranda’s Atelier Collection Show
My first stop was on Friday evening at the Columbian and Venezuelan designer Raul Penaranda’s Atelier Collection show, held at 215 W 23rd St. What made this show stand out was the venue—a two-floor gym transformed into a makeshift runway. Penaranda hosted the show from 7–10 p.m., using the space creatively with a DJ booth on the second floor and models descending casually from upstairs to the ground level. The main floor was where most of the guests gathered to watch the models strut down in glittering, Vegas-esque gowns.
The vibe was electric, with photographers and journalists buzzing around before and after the event, eager to capture every moment. Penaranda’s choice of venue was such a bold reminder of what NYFW embodies—innovation and the power to turn any setting into an artistic statement. And for $60, the event included a free drink, and yes, this gym even had an open bar! New York knows how to keep things exciting.
A Special Collection Launch at The Hive House
The following Sunday, I attended a special collection launch at the Hive and Colony in Soho. This event was particularly special as it showcased a collaboration involving Jeffrey Ampratwum, a stylist and FIT professor I had the pleasure of meeting at a previous networking event. Jeffrey had personally invited me, and the timing was perfect because the opening doubled as a birthday celebration for him. The Soho location set the tone for a trendy yet relaxed gathering, and it was inspiring to see Jeffrey’s work spotlighted in this intimate, stylish setting.
Reflecting on the NYFW Experience
From the creative, makeshift runway at Penaranda’s show to the chic Soho launch with Jeffrey, my weekend taught me so much about the dedication and vision that go into NYFW events. Seeing the behind-the-scenes effort was truly eye-opening, and I left with a newfound appreciation for all the staff and creatives who bring these productions to life. It was an unforgettable few days, and it made me fall even more in love with New York’s fashion scene.
I’m already looking forward to the next NYFW—this city truly is a haven for fashion lovers!
