New York Fashion Week never stops being hectic. The busy schedule of shows, dates and parties is something curator and critic Kimberly Drew is all too familiar with. Known in the art world for her work that highlights and encourages artists of color, Drew is also a writer who regularly contributes to top-tier publications and is the author of two books. An in-demand model to boot, the multi-hyphenate often sits front row on some of the biggest catwalks in the industry. Art and fashion have always gone hand in hand”, she says of her life straddling two worlds. “I feel fortunate to be a member of both communities.”
As a fashion connoisseur, Drew figured out how to not only survive but thrive during this marathon week. His formula for his success starts with strong attire, like his head-to-toe Kate Spade look, moments of self-care (yes, even on the go!), and leaning into moments of spontaneity. ELLE caught up with Drew to get tips and tricks from him to stay and look great during fashion week.
Dress in powerful prints
Tyler Joe
Instead of agonizing over what to wear, Drew is resolute about her look and gets down to business: “There’s nothing like a bold print to get you up, out of bed and on your way,” she says, and Kate Spade is the perfect fit. For her jam-packed day, she chose green plaid pants and a matching blazer with a layered navy and pink cardigan underneath for contrast. The combination rings true to Drew’s duality as a connoisseur of the world of fashion and art. “It looked like executive reality and just something really classy in honor of fashion week,” says Drew. “This outfit definitely satisfies both sides of my life!”
Trust your teammates
Tyler Joe
The best part of fashion week? For Drew, it’s meeting friends in the industry, like ELLE Senior Market Editor Sarah Zendejas, and taking time to catch up. Sharing a laugh-filled quick meal is a welcome break in the day and offers an opportunity to recharge. “I love everything from a casual hello to a long dinner with a friend you haven’t seen all summer,” he says. “It really makes the week quite delicious.”
Moisturize and repeat
Tyler Joe
Any basic survival strategy focuses on two things: food and water. Stopping to eat and catch up with friends may take care of the food part, but when it comes to water intake, Drew is serious about the impact it will have on his day. “Three quick rules for fashion week: hydrate, hydrate, and hydrate some more,” she says. To make sure she’s never thirsty, Drew carries a bottle of water with her and makes sure to take sips throughout the day.
Keep alert
Tyler Joe
With a show schedule that can take Drew anywhere from SoHo to the Upper East Side to Brooklyn, all in the span of an afternoon, the easiest way to get there is never by car. “In theory, I love a yellow cab, but it won’t get you there in time,” he says. “Take it from a girl from Bed-Stuy, don’t underestimate the subway.” And while Drew likes to have enough wiggle room in his schedule so she won’t be in a hurry, she knows she can never fully predict life (or New York City traffic). So stylish flats are a key part of her look, so she can run down the stairs or chase a train just before the doors close. “My schedule and my shoes are in collusion, always,” she adds.
Get loose
Tyler Joe
Attending shows and events is a part of Drew’s job that he takes very seriously, but that doesn’t mean his entire day is all work and no play. “Finding moments for silliness and playfulness is the most powerful aspect of what it means to not only be creative, but stay creative,” he says. “For me it is not negotiable.” A quick little dance and photo break with street style photographer Tyler Joe and Oscar Nñ, founder of Papi Juice, is a great way to stretch your limbs and release the tension of running all afternoon. After Joe gets his injections from him, Drew goes off to finish his day, with a big smile on his face and a nice outfit, of course.
Photographer: Tyler Joe; cinematographer: Steven Mastorelli; hair and makeup: Allie J; Stylist: Sachiko Clyde; creative producer and director: Hannah Miller; production manager: Anne Ritz; Cast: Jennifer McLawhorn
Source: news.google.com