Adaptogens, Céline, Cowboy Boots: What Insiders Are Packing for Fashion Month

9.5.18
Of all the things that have impacted the way the world views Fashion Month, street style might be the biggest. The circus outside the shows sometimes eclipses what happens on the runway. And as the mob outside the venues grows, so too has the pressure for those attending to look great. Here’s how a few of fashion’s familiar faces manage to look pulled together and interesting and professional and creative and comfortable AND… like they’re not trying too hard during the global schlep that is Fashion Month.

NYFW: Laurel Pantin, Fashion Writer & Stylist

Fashion Week Insiders | Laurel Pantin

What She’s Most Excited To Wear
I was extremely pregnant last fashion week, so this time around I’m excited to wear anything with a waistline. I was really into flowy, maximal dresses last season, and while I still am, to an extent, I’m definitely feeling more pared back lately. I’ve found myself wearing some version of a man’s button-down every day recently, so I’m sure I’ll wear a lot of my husband’s old shirts. He won’t let me wear the new ones… I’m in the market for a great pair of simple round-toe ballet flats, so I’ll probably be wearing those a lot.
If She Could Only Pack Five Things
Great denim, a white button-down, a pair of Hermès Oran slides, my Taffin ring and a pair of Aurelie Bidermann pearl earrings.
The Shows She’s Most Excited For
Sies Marjan is my favorite in New York, and I always love the Tom Ford and Coach extravaganzas. I love a good spectacle!
Her New York Hit-List
My favorite NYC restaurant is I Sodi — the most over-the-top delicious pasta in the world. I also love getting an Aperol spritz at Barbuto between shows — it’s the nicest indoor/outdoor space.
Her Fashion Week Palate Cleanser
During fashion week I usually skip the parties and go home and do distinctly non-fashion related activities. This season it will be snuggling the life out of my baby boy, Ellis.

LFW: Mia Solkin, Fashion Director at Paper Magazine

Fashion Week Insiders | Mia Solkin

Why Basics Are Best
I bring one carry-on and one checked bag. I know, rather surprising, as it doesn’t sound like a lot. But sometimes I find the fewer options I have, the less overwhelmed I feel. I’ve learnt that from going over the years. It’s better for me to bring classics I can re-wear, rather than packing special ‘unicorn’ items. I wear a uniform during fashion week, and then add fancier accessories to make them feel more dressed-up.
If She Could Only Bring Five Things
I’d bring my black Balenciaga zip-up jacket, Levi’s jeans, a Petit Bateau white t-shirt, Nike white sneakers and my brown Céline box bag.

Fashion Week Insiders | Mia Solkin

The Shows She’s Most Excited For
I’m super excited to see JW Anderson, Molly Goddard, Christopher Kane, Simone Rocha and Burberry.
Her Must-Visits In London
I love the Wolseley, I always try to go with my friends at least once. Cecconi’s is a fun atmosphere too. I’ve also recently discovered the cocktails at the Ham Yard Hotel.

MFW: Chrissy Rutherford, Senior Fashion Editor at Bazaar.com

Fashion Week Insiders | Chrissy Rutherford

The Secret To The Edited Packing Job
I hate checking bags when I fly, so I’ve learned that planning my outfits in advance is the only way I can avoid my over-packing tendencies. Even though I’m not an outfit planner in my everyday life, it’s become essential for fashion week travel. When I’m just doing London fashion week, I carry on. But since I’ll be doing Milan and Paris back-to-back, I’ll have to do checked bags.
What She’s Excited To Wear
Suits and Fendi cowboy boots (not necessarily together).
If She Could Only Pack Five Things
High-waisted jeans, a great button-down shirt, black blazer, ankle boots and a statement bag.
Her Milan Must-Visit
I love Bice — it’s such an old school spot, and they make you feel right at home.

PFW: Rachael Wang, Stylist & Creative Director

Fashion Week Insiders | Rachael Wang

What She’ll Be Wearing
I’m in the process of transitioning my closet to eliminate animal products and it’s been a challenge to find shoes that incorporate my values without sacrificing good design. I came across Nomadic State of Mind sandals and I am obsessed! I also love Chacos for comfort and simplicity of design so I might be able to incorporate those when I’m going to more casual shows. I’m also recently obsessed with my friend Christina Tung’s new line of earrings called SVNR.
Her Top Five Must-Haves
A steamer, a favorite pair of vintage Levi’s, an oversized men’s striped button-down, vintage cowboy boots and my favorite sterling hoops from the artisanal market in Mexico City.
Heels Or Flats?
I’m practical all the way. If the weather is gorgeous and I have time to walk from one show to the next, I want that option.

Fashion Week Insiders | Rachael Wang

Her Vegan Guide To Paris
There are lots of great vegan-friendly places in Paris now. I love Guenmai, Godjo and Abyssinia for Ethiopian, Wild and the Moon, Le Potager du Marais, Bob’s, Cloud Cakes and Juice It. Naturalia and Bio C Bon are great for snacks.
How She Gets Away From All Of It
I try to have a night in every other day or so where I just order take out and take a bath or read and go to bed early. It’s important for me to feel like I have time for myself amidst the chaos of events. I also try to squeeze in a jog in the morning along the river which helps me clear my head before a full day of social activities. I also take B12 and some adaptogens to try to stay as calm as possible. I also really enjoy body brushing as part of a nice self-care moment before bathing.
Inspired by their picks? Shop editors’ favorites here

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