Introduction
New York City, the fashion capital of the world, is a playground for the bold, the daring, and the fashion-forward. But beneath the glitz and glamour of the mainstream fashion week, there’s a vibrant underground scene that’s just as exciting, if not more so. This article will take you on a whirlwind tour of the quirkiest, sassiest, and most unforgettable underground fashion events in NYC that you absolutely can’t miss.
The Unconventional Runway
New York Fashion Week is not just about the high-end shows and the glitz of the red carpet. It’s also about the innovative, the daring, and the downright quirky. From Brooklyn rooftop farms to the “fake heiress” Anna Delvey’s rooftop, the underground scene is all about breaking the mold and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in fashion.
Brooklyn Rooftop Farm
Imagine a runway set against the backdrop of a lush, green rooftop farm. That’s exactly what you’ll find at one of the most unique fashion events in NYC. This event is a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, showcasing how fashion can be both eco-friendly and utterly stunning.
Anna Delvey’s Rooftop
Anna Delvey, the “fake heiress,” has turned her rooftop into a fashionable haven. Despite her current status, Delvey’s rooftop remains a hotspot for the fashion-forward, offering a unique perspective on the city’s fashion scene. It’s a place where the underground meets the mainstream, creating a vibrant mosaic of fashion trends and personalities.
The Art of Activation
Fashion events are not just about the clothes; they’re about the experience. From interactive installations to live performances, the underground fashion scene in NYC is all about engaging the senses and creating memorable experiences.
NYLON Nights
BDG, publisher of NYLON magazine, debuted its NYLON Nights event with artist J Balvin at Nebula. The evening featured a DJ lineup and fashion-centric activations, while guests sipped CELSIUS beverages. It was a night of music, fashion, and art, showcasing how these elements can come together to create an unforgettable experience
Sephora Styling Products
Another innovative activation was the opportunity for attendees to get their hair styled using Sephora styling products. This hands-on experience allowed guests to participate in the fashion show, making it a truly interactive event
Underground fashion events in NYC that focus on sustainable or ethical fashion
The Green Show
The Green Show is a sustainability event series that debuted during New York Fashion Week, marking its mission to transform the fashion industry through championing sustainability, ethical practices, and eco-conscious living. This event is created by La Faye & Powell and aims to redefine the industry’s norms, making sustainability not just a choice but a way of life. The Green Show has collaborated with a number of eco-friendly businesses across various sectors, including health & wellness brands, transportation & automotive companies, and the beauty industry. It is committed to a future where the environmental, social, and economic impacts of human activities are negligible, and building sustainable communities and economies are the norm
IMPACT NYFW
IMPACT NYFW is a nonprofit platform for sustainable designers and fashion, created by Brooklyn-based designer Lizzy Gee in 2019. It provides a platform for designers and brands that create sustainably at New York Fashion Week. The event features a series of pop-up booths showcasing designers’ work, ranging from handbags and accessories to jeans and dresses. Notable designers include Logan bLagg, known for bringing abstraction into fashion with cutouts and thrifted fabrics, and Amalya Meira, who uses upcycled textiles and vintage garments to create unique designs. IMPACT NYFW sets the standard for a new era of greener fashion, emphasizing zero-waste practices and the use of local goods
Upcoming underground fashion events
“The New Village: Ten Years of New York Fashion” at Pratt Manhattan Gallery
This exhibition, which runs until March 16, 2024, is a celebration of the underground New York fashion scene. It features a diverse group of designers known for their anarchic approach to fashion, showcasing a wide range of styles and concepts. The exhibition includes works from designers like Chris Peters’s CDLM project, Amanda McGowan and Mattie Barringer’s Women’s History Museum, and Vaquera, among others. It also features conceptual works and installations that highlight the importance of color, texture, and the artistic possibilities of fashion design. This event is a testament to the resilience and creativity of independent labels in New York, offering a glimpse into the future of fashion beyond the mainstream 5.
NYFW: The Shows
While the mainstream NYFW: The Shows is a well-known event, it also hosts a variety of underground fashion events. These events range from vintage runway shows to hip-hop on the runway shows and networking events, providing a wide array of experiences for attendees. Even if you don’t have VIP seats to the designer shows, there’s still plenty to explore and enjoy at these events 4.
Eventbrite’s New York Fashion Week Collection
Eventbrite has curated a collection of NYFW events that are accessible to the public. These events include a vintage runway show, a gala, a hip-hop on the runway show, and a networking event. This collection is a great way to experience the diversity and creativity of the New York fashion scene without the need for VIP access.
These events are just a few examples of the unique and anticipated underground fashion events in NYC. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a budding designer, or simply someone who appreciates the creativity and diversity of fashion, there’s something for everyone in the underground fashion scene of NYC.
FAQ
Q: What makes underground fashion events in NYC unique?
A: Underground fashion events in NYC are unique for their anarchic approach to fashion, showcasing a wide range of styles and concepts that often defy conventional norms. These events celebrate the diversity and creativity of independent labels, offering a glimpse into the future of fashion beyond the mainstream. They often feature innovative installations, conceptual works, and performances that highlight the importance of color, texture, and the artistic possibilities of fashion design 1.
Q: How can I attend an underground fashion event in NYC?
A: Attending an underground fashion event in NYC can be as simple as checking the event’s official website or social media pages for details on tickets and schedules. Some events may require an RSVP, while others may be open to the public. It’s also a good idea to follow local fashion blogs and social media accounts for updates on upcoming events 1.
Q: Are there any specific underground fashion events I should look out for?
A: Yes, “The New Village: Ten Years of New York Fashion” at the Pratt Manhattan Gallery is a notable event that celebrates the work of a diverse group of designers known for their anarchic approach to fashion. This exhibition runs until March 16, 2024, and features a variety of works, including runway shows and installations, that highlight the artistic qualities and possibilities of fashion design.
Q: How can I stay updated on upcoming underground fashion events in NYC?
A: Staying updated on upcoming underground fashion events in NYC can be achieved by following local fashion blogs, social media accounts of fashion events, and the official websites of fashion institutions like the Pratt Manhattan Gallery. Additionally, subscribing to newsletters from fashion magazines and attending fashion week events can provide insights into the latest trends and upcoming events 1.
Q: What can I expect from an underground fashion event in NYC?
A: Underground fashion events in NYC offer a mix of fashion shows, installations, and performances that often push the boundaries of traditional fashion. Attendees can expect to see a wide range of styles and concepts, from vintage runway shows to hip-hop on the runway shows, and networking events. These events are not just about showcasing the latest trends but also about celebrating the diversity and creativity of the New York fashion scene
Q: How can I participate in an underground fashion event in NYC?
A: Participating in an underground fashion event in NYC can be as simple as attending the event. Many events are open to the public, and tickets can often be purchased online. Additionally, some events may offer opportunities for attendees to get involved, such as interactive installations or live performances. Following the event on social media and engaging with the organizers can also provide opportunities to participate in future events
Conclusion
New York City’s underground fashion scene is a testament to the city’s vibrant and innovative spirit. From the unconventional runway to the art of activation, and from the digital revolution to the future of fashion, these events are a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the endless possibilities of fashion. So, next time you’re in NYC, don’t just stick to the mainstream fashion week. Dive into the underground scene and discover a world of fashion that’s as quirky, sassy, and unforgettable as the city itself.
