LTK sat down with Shannae Ingleton Smith, Head of Business Development and Influencer Talent at Kensington Grey Agency Inc., to chat all things New York Fashion Week (NYFW) and to learn more about how influencers and content creators can lean into this bi-yearly industry moment.
Not familiar with Kensington Grey Agency? Kensington Grey is a boutique influencer agency rooted in diversity that specializes in influencer marketing, casting, talent, strategy and campaign management.
Shannae Ingleton Smith: Your outfit is the star, but if you won’t have an assistant present, a chic, well-sized tote is my bag of choice to make sure I have all my necessities on me, at all times. Inside it, the ultimate must-have is a pair of stylish flats – but never at the expense of my outfit! Once you’ve left the show and photographers have captured the perfect shot with your heels, you’re now free to slip into something comfortable to avoid walking at lengths in uncomfortable heels. While comfort is key, absolutely no flip flops! As an alternative, my favorite sandals of the season are the Chanel summer dad sandals, which I wear all the time; they’re super comfortable and really make most outfits look chic and on trend. If your tote is large enough, another must-have is a sweater. As the weather can be unpredictable at times, this is the perfect way to quickly switch from summer vibes to fall, while keeping your outfit stylish.
But what’s a fashion week bag without the basics? First up: your phone. This helps you stay connected, in the know, and on top of show schedules–times, dates, locations. You’ll also need a back-up charger, and an external charger for your phone in case it dies to make sure you’re able to keep capturing that content. Next, every fashion week tote needs a makeup bag inside. Here you’ll need a mirror to always know what you look like in these NYFW streets, a great lipgloss or lipstick for on the go touch ups, a face spritzer (facial mist) to help you maintain that dewy, hydrated glow, hair elastics and, of course, the staple–a perfect pair of sunglasses. Last but certainly not least, sanitizing wipes, this one's self explanatory.
Remember, there's not a lot of leeway, and the environment is quite unforgiving due to the sheer number of photographers literally everywhere. They’re there to shoot trends for fashion week so whatever you’re rocking, make sure it's cute from every angle, on trend and absolutely giving.
Shannae Ingleton Smith: September is a magical time in New York City. With the excitement of NYFW buzzing, there’s so much happening all around the city. I’ve been attending NYFW since 2015, and the best way to describe it is “life-changing;” my business and career were launched based on the connections I've made in New York during fashion week over the years.
For influencers, this is the perfect time to see and be seen! With a keen eye for what’s on trend or even while rocking a stylish original, this is an easy way to get photographed and featured in editorial publications. Again, photographers are everywhere.
But even if you don’t make the invite list or catch a photographer’s eye, make sure you’re still in the vicinity. Outside, amongst the hustle and bustle of it all is where the true action happens. This is the best place to connect and network with brand reps, clients, and other influencers, alike. These connections can very well be the thing that gets you invited next year, so don’t take any potential connection for granted. Another great way to take advantage of the increased visibility is by using the star-studded events as the perfect backdrop for your content. Take advantage of the opportunity to elevate your profile through the content you’re able to capture and create. Don’t be afraid to take fly pictures of yourself, using the NYFW hashtags to get seen and drive engagement; people are scouring these hashtags to discover new people to follow or work with. So, put yourself out there!
LTK recommends using these hashtags:
Shannae Ingleton Smith: If you can't attend any NYFW shows or events, host your own! NYFW is known to draw attendees from everywhere, hoping to get a taste of the glamor and bright lights. Use this time to meet up with other influencers and enjoy a fab weekend in the city together. And if you can’t make it to New York City, vicariously experience NYFW by using relevant hashtags. Create Reels or TikTok videos detailing your favorite trends of the season, or jump on the cool TikTok trend where stylists show what they’d wear to the various runway shows; e.g. “What I’d wear if I was front row at Tom Ford or Yeezy." Showcase your creativity while showing your audience that you’re the one to follow to stay on top of what’s happening or gain insight into what’s next.
Shannae Ingleton Smith: The best way to create relatable and pocket inclusive content is to mix highs with lows. Show outfit details, while providing alternatives to higher end pieces.
LTK insight: LTK offers Creators the option to link to both exact and related products.
I can recall a time where I went to NYFW mixing pieces from H&M and Valentino. Captions are a great way to break down outfit details like, "This is my look for NYFW. My shoes may be from Jimmy Choo, my hat may be from Celine, but my top is Zara, and jeans are from H&M.” It also provides you with the space to list stores like Nordstom, etc, that carry high to low-end designers, and are easily shoppable for all styles and budgets.
While inclusivity is important, NYFW is also an aspirational moment for style enthusiasts. So don't shy away from it. Stay true to yourself, your style, and your brand. If your everyday style includes accessible brands, by all means, include them. But don’t shy away from stepping out with that Chanel bag! A tip, instead of tagging Chanel, tag a reseller or a local consignment shop so your followers can find out where they can get their hands are one of these pre-loved beauties.
Another great way to engage your audience is to detail your journey to NYFW. Use this moment to provide insight on how you got there, favorite moments, and things you wish to do next, while sharing tips on how they can get invited in the future to experience the grandeur for themselves.
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