Politics, schmolitics. New York Fashion Week is officially on, baby. Whether you’re a plus size model, designer, stylist, or just a full-figured fashion lover, NYFW is the place where trends are born, and it can absolutely be a game-changer for your curvy career.
New York Fashion Week is one of the most exciting moments in the fashion calendar, but for curvy fashionistas it can feel intimidating. Where do we fit in? The truth is, there’s space for plus size at Fashion Week… and showing up matters. Whether you’re a model, blogger, designer, or a stylish fan, your presence helps shift the culture toward inclusivity. This guide will show you how to navigate Fashion Week with confidence, style, and strategy.
Ready to make the most of it? Let’s get into how to truly flourish while being plus size at Fashion Week.
Why Does Plus Size at Fashion Week Representation Matter?
In short, it brings people together.
Fashion Week is a week-long showcase where designers present their latest collections to buyers, press, and influencers, setting the tone for what’s next in fashion. But it’s also so much more than that. It’s where ideas meet opportunity.
Whether you’re a plus size retailer, buyer, marketer, model, or just a fashion-obsessed fan, showing up in person creates connections you just can’t replicate online. Being plus size at Fashion Week matters even more, especially after years of digital fatigue and isolation, those face-to-face moments really matter.
And for the plus size community, your presence is powerful. Not only does it push back against the tired myth that plus size folks don’t care about fashion, it shows designers that we’re here, stylish, and ready to invest in clothes that represent us.
How Do I Find NYFW Events?
The official NYFW calendar is hosted by the CFDA:
NYFW Official Schedule
But here’s the thing: not all shows are listed there. Many indie shows happen around the same time and are just as impactful, often more welcoming to plus size audiences and talent.
Where else to look:
- Eventbrite
- Facebook Groups and Events tab
- Your inbox and DMs, especially once you start networking
Ask about after-parties and mixers too. That’s where some of the best conversations happen.
Some events to keep an eye on:
- Christian Siriano, who consistently features plus size models
- Adore Me’s NYFW showcase, which celebrates inclusive fashion
Even if a show doesn’t feature plus size talent, attending still matters. Your presence signals demand and shows designers there’s a stylish, untapped market paying attention.
Are All Fashion Week Events Open to Plus Size Attendees?
Not all. Some are industry-only, meant for buyers and press. But you still have options.
You can apply to attend through individual producers listed here:
Fashion Week Online Producers
For public-access events, check:
NYFW Public Tickets
Another option is to volunteer. It’s a great way to get behind-the-scenes experience, meet industry insiders, and start building relationships. Reach out to show producers directly to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Many indie or off-calendar shows are public and ticketed. Event announcements usually include where to buy tickets.
I’m a Blogger or Influencer. How Do I Get on the Press List?
“Press” traditionally means journalists or photographers tied to a media outlet, but bloggers and influencers are increasingly being welcomed to shows.
What helps your chances:
- Strong, consistent content
- Niche relevance (plus size fashion, body positivity, etc.)
- Engagement and professionalism
Apply here for official press registration:
NYFW Press Registration
Just know that registration doesn’t guarantee entry, so consider purchasing tickets just in case.
Even if you’re not officially listed, go anyway. Cover the show, write or post about it, and tag everyone involved. This proves your commitment and raises your visibility for next time.
What Should I Bring as a Plus Size Professional at NYFW?
Bring business cards or comp cards if you’re a model. Don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of experience yet. You can still include your aspirations, like “Aspiring Plus Size Model,” and keep things honest and professional.
Digital business cards are a great option too. They allow you to include clickable links to your website and social media profiles.
Tools like Canva make it easy to design polished cards, even if your graphic design skills are minimal.
How Do I Network at NYFW?
You won’t meet everyone, and that’s totally fine. Be strategic with your time and energy.
Before the show, try to find a list of attendees or participants. Eventbrite and Facebook event pages sometimes include this information. You can also reach out to producers directly and explain that you want to tag participants in your recap content.
After the show is when the real networking happens. Follow up on social media and send personalized messages. Here’s a simple template:
“Hi [Name], thanks so much for connecting. I really loved your [designs, photos, etc.], and I’d love to stay in touch and support each other. Here’s my work: [your Instagram link]. Would you mind sharing your links as well?”
This type of message shows that you’re genuinely interested in connection, not just looking for opportunities.
I Get Nervous Talking to Strangers. What Can I Do?
You are not alone. A lot of people feel this way at events.
Start by looking for someone who also seems a bit nervous and break the ice. Try something like, “These events can feel intimidating, right?” It’s disarming and relatable, and it helps ease you both into a conversation.
What do I Say About My Plus Size Business at Fashion Week?
Don’t pitch. Connect.
You’re not selling something, you’re starting a relationship. Think of it like a first date. No one wants to be proposed to in the first five minutes.
Stay engaged and present. Don’t scroll your phone or hold your drink while talking. And if someone more “important” walks in, do not abandon the person you’re speaking with.
When it’s time to move on, say something like, “It was so lovely talking with you. I’ll follow up soon so we can stay in touch.”
Are Big & Tall Men’s Fashions Part of NYFW?
Sometimes. Some shows include both men’s and women’s looks, and there are also menswear-specific shows. One standout is The Bigger Picture, which focuses on Big & Tall fashion.
I Want to Model at NYFW. How Do I Start?
Start here:
- Model Casting Info
- Producer Contact List
- Sign Up for Casting Updates
- Email for editorials: collab@fashionweekonline.com
NYFW is next level. You’ll be competing against top-tier models, so bring your A-game. Be punctual, polished, and professional. And never forget what Coco Chanel said:
“In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.”
Hosting Your Own Plus Size Event During NYFW
You can apply to have your event included in the official schedule:
Submit Your Event
Even if you don’t get approved, promote your event everywhere. Use platforms like Eventbrite, and tag NYFW-related accounts in your post-show photos and recaps. Show them why you deserve to be on the schedule next time.
What Should I Wear to NYFW?
While you’ll want to consider the vibe of each show, NYFW is famously eclectic. You’ll see everything from avant-garde statements to sleek minimalism. The key is to be intentional and authentic to your style.
Avoid over-the-top looks that could veer into meme territory. If in doubt, reach out to plus size stylists for guidance. In fact, tapping into that community is a great way to elevate your look and create content at the same time.
Final Thoughts
Being plus size at Fashion Week isn’t just about clothes; it’s about visibility, community, and claiming space in an industry that hasn’t always included us. Whether you’re attending shows, networking behind the scenes, or walking the runway, your presence is powerful.
Show up. Stand tall. Make space. Take space.
As Coco Chanel said,
“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street… It has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”
Live life boldly and on your own terms, and you’ll always be in style.
