When Sarah of Living Goldie emailed me to discuss bag and shoe essentials for the IFB Conference and New York Fashion Week, I was delighted. It dawned on me that many of us have the same questions, and a post was born!
Keep in mind I’ve only been to one blogger conference, LuckyFABB. So this advice is just my humble opinion.
She asked about the kind of shoes and bags to carry around for running around all day.
True Story… Last year, I brought a small handbag and a large tote that I’d gotten for free from a makeup event. The end result was less than ideal because I was worrying about keeping up with those 2 bags in addition to the gargantuan swag bag we received. The next day, I had bruises on my arm… seriously!
This year, I’m bringing this Alexander Wang tote that will hold all of my bag essentials with room for extras. {My friend Ashley at SideSmile Style has it in a gorgeous champagne color and wore hers to LuckyFABB. Smart cookie!} This way, I can attend the conference and run over to another event without worrying about multiple bags +/- swag bags.
Blogger Conference / Fashion Week Bag Essentials:
- a big ol’ bag // You’ll need one large enough to carry the contents of your regular handbag + room for things like a camera and flats.
- camera // Mine is not in the picture because I was using it! Remember to bring the battery charger and extra memory cards if you aren’t going to download pictures to your computer.
- flats // Although I’ll be wearing heels to the conference and different events, walking around New York City in heels is NO JOKE. Your heels or your feet can be ruined, so I recommend some comfortable shoes for getting to your next destination. I carry my flats in a dust bag because I’m a little OCD and don’t like my shoes touching my other things. I’m considering bringing my Sam Edelman fringe boots as a bad weather alternative, but they take up more room in my bag. Another true story… Last year, I walked around Manhattan in my Valentino rockstud kitten heels. They are very comfortable in general but my feet were KILLING me by the end of the night, not to mention that I scuffed them. Ugh.
- iphone {or smart phone} // Hello, how are you going to tweet or instagram in real time if you don’t have it! If you are going to be out all day, then bring the charger in your bag. It will save your life. Pinky promise.
- sunglasses // Always have your sunglasses because you never know when a perfect photo op can be ruined by your dark circles from staying up too late because you’ve been blogging, deciding what to wear, or gabbing with your girlfriends.
- telephoto lens // This is not really necessary unless you plan on attending a fashion show. If you are super far back in the standing area, you’ll thank me later.
- ipad // Another optional item but possibly helpful if your phone dies or you are using it as a substitute for your computer.
**Amended
Leith leather leggings {faux and real} // Chanel jacket {vintage} // NINI circle dress // Alexander Mcqueen dress // Alexander Wang leather dress // Helmut Lang leather jacket
Now comes the question, “What to wear”?????
I think it’s best to wear something that you are comfortable in but makes you feel special. That’s why I chose each of these items. However after seeing the photograph of all my potential items, I realized that there is NO COLOR!! Only black and white, what?!?! Obviously, I need to revise my wardrobe picks or bring some colorful accessories.
- Consider the weather // It’s going to be cold in New York at this time. You’ll notice I picked leather items – maybe too many. Be sure to bring an overcoat, and I usually pack a small umbrella just in case.
- Dress to impress // Are you going to be one of those who waits outside a fashion show hoping to get picked to go in? Then step it up and wear your best! If that pink top gets you compliments every time, then bring it! Be sure to wear a statement piece!
Lastly, are you trying to attend events at Fashion Week?
Like I stated previously, this will be my first Fashion Week so I’m trying my hand at some different options.
- This helpful article from IFB gives step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a press pass here. It may have been too late, but I’ll let you know!
- Also, I reached out to some of favorite designers via email. Again, I’ll let you know if I hear anything.
Hope this is helpful!
P.S. If you think of any questions, let me know in the comments. I’ll answer to the best of my ability.
P.P.S. If you’re wondering why I’m going to New York amidst all this adoption stuff, Mr. S told me to go to the IFB Conference, Fashion Week, and visit my family because it might be my last chance for awhile. I’m trying to take advantage!
