The Old Guard of New York Fashion Week
In the words of Carrie Bradshaw, “I couldn’t help but wonder” — what would happen if NYFW became even more accessible? Written by Maddie Mayberry
"I always kind of had a good sense of what fashion worlds I wanted to be in and what ones I didn’t." - Laura Brown
This quote by one of my biggest sources of inspiration has stuck with me since I first read it about a year ago in this New York Times article. Lately, Laura Brown’s words have taken on new meaning for me.
I'm constantly in awe of Laura's charisma, her punchlines that always land – even through a screen, and her ability to push boundaries. But as I sit on this plane ride back into Palm Beach, I finally feel like I have some thoughts worth adding to the conversation that Laura has contributed to for so long.
As the former Editor-in-Chief at InStyle magazine, Laura has experienced both the trials and the magic of this industry. Her words have beautifully captured the essence of nearly every fashion house, show, and cultural shift. She's truly been around the block, probably while wearing the most chic boots you can imagine.
With New York Fashion Week here, I’ve been reflecting on her idea of the fashion rooms I wanted to be in verses the ones I didn’t. As the city gears up for what is sure to be a whirlwind of excitement, creativity, and dream-making, I wanted to share my own perspective.
Here I am, a 22-year-old watching the Vogue livestreams from her hotel room in the city, perched on the top bunk with my best friend below and an itinerary full of bagels and window shopping ahead. From this "outsider" viewpoint, I find power in the ability to observe without the weight of expectation.
I’m not being critical, just curious. I think Carrie Bradshaw said it best, “I couldn’t help but wonder” — what would happen if these events became even more accessible?
What if the conversation widened to include more voices, allowing for fresh perspectives and insights? Could we see greater inclusivity, more collaboration, and maybe even more FUN?
After all, isn’t that the best part of fashion, the childlike squeals of excitement when you twirl around in a new fringe skirt or find a pair of vintage jeans that fit like a glove?
I’m not sure, but I know I have a sense of the fashion rooms I want to be in as well. I want to meet creative, passionate people. I want to experience the art and energy of the industry firsthand. I want to be in the room where it happens, and I believe more people without the typical NYFW status could add something special to shaping the future of fashion.
Just as Rodeo has opened their arms to any and all fashion-lovers, shaking up the creator landscape, could allowing “outsider" perspectives help redefine the persona of New York Fashion Week?
Some may argue that exclusivity ensures a valuable network, or that it’s necessary to prove one's dedication to the craft. But I believe it can also be isolating. Sometimes, a fresh perspective from the outside is just what’s needed.
So, here’s to a future of even more collaboration, and creativity, and until then – I’ll see you all in the comments section of every fashion account!
Xx,
Maddie Mayberry (@maddiemayberrry)