Photo by Johan Lindeberg

Insider Guide: How Instyle Editor in Chief Laura Brown Does Nyfw

Words by Jody Hume | 9.8.16
Laura Brown is a fashion week veteran, but this September will be a bit different. That’s because she was recently tapped to be Editor in Chief at InStyle. “Taking the lead of such an iconic brand is a dream come true,” Brown said in a press release announcing her new role. “InStyle is at the forefront of celebrity, beauty, fashion and popular culture — areas I’ve loved weaving together throughout my career.” It’s a move that comes after 11 years spent creating award-winning covers (who can forget Rihanna lounging in that shark’s mouth?) and celebrated fashion stories at Harper’s Bazaar. As we expected, Brown’s fun and free-spirited take on fashion, which is also on display on her Instagram, extends to her approach to fashion week itself. Read on to find out her favorite place to stop for spaghetti, the fashion week essentials she won’t do without and the celebrity she couldn’t help but Instagram on the runway.
How do you plan your fashion week looks?
Oh, I wish I really did! Normally I have about three looks in mind and then it all pretty much goes to hell, or…jeans. Thankfully I’m not one of those street style girls — getting ready for Fashion Week must take up days of their lives (pun intended).
Laura Brown Fashion Week Guide
@laurabrown99
What are two things you can’t live without during NYFW?
Dr. Scholl’s ball of foot cushions — I don’t wear any sort of heel without them. A charger — and a charger for my charger.
Where are your favorite places in the city to recharge between shows? Best place to grab a drink afterward?
I live and die for Barbuto in the West Village — it’s central to all the downtown shows, and even better when there’s a show upstairs in Industria studio. That’s a total winner. They have drinks and spaghetti too! I highly recommend eating spaghetti for one’s stamina.
What makes NYFW distinct from the other fashion weeks in Paris, Milan and London?
Well, it’s certainly more commercial — you have to look harder for the young, interesting talents that in places like London are more in your face. And it moves much faster — you’re never sure what to look at, fashion shows or people’s iPhones Instagramming fashion shows.
Best hotel if you’re flying in?
The Carlyle. Not particularly convenient with everything heading downtown, but so gorgeous. A ton of fashion people stay at The Bowery. Super cool, big scene — if you’re into the Whole Fashion Experience.
During the shows are you Instagramming, Snapchatting or living in the moment?
I might Insta right at the end of a show, but rarely in the middle. Apart from when Lady Gaga walked Marc Jacobs’ show last season — I was like, who is that interesting, shorter lady? Had to Instagram her immediately.
When you see certain looks come down the runway, do you immediately see them on a cover or in a feature?
I’m terrible — I mostly see them on me! (Evil laugh).
Laura Brown Fashion Week Guide
@laurabrown99
What are some of your favorite NYFW shows each year?
Marc Jacobs, because he really puts on a show. Rosie Assoulin’s presentation. She is a great friend and so gifted. I always love to see what weird, beautiful things Rodarte are doing. Alexander Wang is never dull.
Who are up-and-coming designers whose shows you’re excited to see?
Sadly I don’t get to really run around tons of shows as I am so busy in the office. I rely on the fashion staff to come running back screaming if they’ve seen something wonderful. Then I’ll add to my schedule for the next time around.
Who throws the best afterparty?
That’s hilarious — I’m too old and tired to go! But I’d bet on Alex Wang. He tends to throw the best everythings.
Do you have a favorite NYFW venue?
I love Spring Studios. I just wish it wasn’t so far from my office in midtown!

Shop Laura’s NYFW picks here.

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