The Alternative Press

It is time again for New York’s Fashion Week. While most of us are dreaming of a glorious spring and awaiting the first signs of the new season, the fashion world is looking ahead to fall/winter 2012. Held biannually in September and February, New York is home to this exciting extravaganza of fashion trending. In September 2010 Fashion Week moved from Bryant Park, midtown, to Lincoln Center, uptown. I found myself there recently, taking in the sights and sounds. I remained outside on the promenade, but it was inspiring nevertheless to feel the splendor and imagine the thrill inside the tents. (I am not sure – are there still actual tents at Lincoln Center?).

What seems like something that is out of reach for most of us, is actually attainable, if only in our attitude. A recent article in The New York Times Style Section, entitled Browsing, noted that although most of us don’t attend Fashion Week and we may not even know the designers’ names, we can pretend that we do. We can live and breathe Fashion Week by reflecting on our own wardrobe and styling ourselves in the most positive light. Start with a statement piece or a fabulous-colored accessory. Do you have a special coat, for instance, that is simple, elegant and fitted, or perhaps a handbag that elevates your look? Now is the time to wear it and be your most fashionable self.

Even Fern Mallis, who is widely credited as the creator of New York Fashion Week and for uniting designers, editors, buyers and celebrities, is bringing her life directly to us, the masses, the industry outsiders. How? By launching her own jewelry line on QVC; combining her experiences in India and abroad and turning her inspirations into beautiful, select and affordable pieces. How excited I was to see her on QVC. It gave me hope that Fashion Week can be mine too.

And this is how I found myself in New York, at the promenade of Lincoln Center, with my single statement piece, an animal-printed handbag. I attended Fashion Week my own way. On the outside, being in.

p.s. today’s article is a Valentine to Whitney Houston, whom I love and will miss.

 

Melissa Kaplan Guarino delights in sharing her love of fashion with you. Check out Melissa’s new blog – speakingoffashion.com.