In the Heart of Style: My Exclusive, Unforgettable Experience at NYFW 2024

If you’ve been keeping up with me on Instagram or have read a few of my most recent posts, you’ll know that earlier this year I had the wonderful opportunity to attend New York Fashion Week as a VIP through The Bureau and was able to cover the Randhawa Brands haute couture show. Stepping onto the bustling streets of the Big Apple during Fashion Week is like entering a sartorial wonderland. This year, spring New York Fashion Week 2024 was a kaleidoscope of trends, innovation, and a celebration of individual style.

In the metropolis that never sleeps, the labyrinth of towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, my journey into the epitome of style commenced as I found myself immersed in the grandeur of New York City. A dream long nurtured in the recesses of my imagination unfolded into a reality painted with haute couture, runway spectacles, and a mosaic of influential personalities.

Immersed in the vibrant pulse of the fashion universe, the enchanting realm of New York City, I found myself swept up in a whirlwind of elegance and innovation. This unparalleled experience, graciously arranged by The Bureau, bestowed upon me a front-row seat to witness the pinnacle of haute couture, specifically Randhawa Brand's couture show. Allow me to take you on a journey through the captivating highlights that encapsulate my indelible sojourn into the elevated world of style during NYFW 2024.

Front-Row Panorama:

Positioned in the coveted front-row seats, I was privy to a breathtaking spectacle as the runway unfurled before my eyes, resplendent with a mesmerizing tapestry of vibrant hues, intricate textures, and avant-garde designs. As I gazed upon the expansive vista before me, it was as if a kaleidoscope of unparalleled creativity had unfurled, showcasing a mesmerizing gowns of established fashion houses and emerging talents. The panorama of styles, each one a testament to the boundless ingenuity of the human imagination, left me in a state of awe and wonder.

Backstage Allure:

Amidst the ethereal mystique that permeated the air, I ventured into the clandestine world backstage, where designers, models, and an ensemble of creative visionaries orchestrated the magic that would soon grace the runway. Here, I bore witness to the meticulous dance of artistry and craftsmanship, where every detail was painstakingly attended to with unwavering precision. The air crackled with palpable excitement as last-minute adjustments were made, the gentle flurry of whispered instructions mingling with the symphony of bustling activity. This backstage allure offered a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the fashion realm, fostering a deep sense of appreciation for the meticulous artistry that breathed life into each collection.

In the inner sanctum of the fashion realm, I bore witness to the meticulous craftsmanship, the intricate choreography of last-minute adjustments, and the palpable electricity that permeated the air. Each delicate brushstroke of makeup, every meticulous stitch, and the symphony of whispered secrets added a layer of profound appreciation for the artistry that breathed life into each collection.

Celebrity Encounters:

NYFW has never just been as a mere fashion event, it transforms into a star-studded affair of unparalleled grandeur. The luminaries of the silver screen and the titans of the music industry adorned themselves in the finest designer ensembles, gracing the event with their ethereal presence all around the city. Adorned in resplendent designer ensembles, these icons graced the event with their ethereal presence, casting an enchanting spell upon the atmosphere. The air buzzed with anticipation as red carpet moments merged seamlessly with impromptu encounters, heightening the glamour and reinforcing the notion that NYFW is indeed the epicenter of stardom and style. The glimmer of cameras, the dazzle of flashing lights, and the whispers of admiration mingled in the air, creating an electrifying atmosphere that heightened the allure of the runway.

Innovative Design Showcases:

A hallowed catwalk of creative expression, became a canvas upon which the boundaries of conventional fashion were shattered. The runway, an exalted platform for creative expression, became a veritable playground for innovation during NYFW 2024. It served as a pulsating canvas upon which designers fearlessly pushed the boundaries of conventional fashion. From sustainable creations that espoused a profound commitment to environmental consciousness to audacious avant-garde statements that challenged societal norms, each collection showcased a profound dedication to pushing the envelope of possibility. The runway became a conduit for artistic exploration, leaving the audience captivated by the audacity of bold designs and the transformative power of fashion.

Exclusive Afterparties:

Beyond the catwalk and following the show, the festivities left behind the confines of the runway, extending into the realm of exclusive afterparties that pulsated with an energy all their own. Amidst the glittering soirées, I found myself immersed in a vibrant barrage of conversations, mingling effortlessly with designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts. It was within these intimate gatherings that the vibrant subculture surrounding high fashion truly came to life.

The air was alive with excitement and the clinking of glasses, providing an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the depths of creative minds, forge connections, and revel in the intoxicating allure of fashion. This rarefied environment provided an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the vibrant subculture that surrounds high fashion, where dreams and aspirations intertwine, and the magic of creativity takes flight.

Fashion Talks and Panel Discussions:

NYFW 2024 transcended the realm of aesthetics, venturing into the realm of intellectual discourse through a series of enlightening talks and thought-provoking panel discussions. Esteemed luminaries and industry titans took to the stage, their profound insights illuminating the path towards the future of fashion. Evolving trends, sustainability, and the preservation of haute couture were among the captivating topics that permeated these discourse-filled sessions. This intellectual layer added a profound depth to my experience, igniting a sense of introspection and instilling a profound appreciation for the far-reaching impact of fashion on our world.

Street Style Extravaganza:

Beyond the confines of the designated venues, the very streets of New York City transformed into a vibrant runway, as fashion enthusiasts showcased their individualistic and daring styles. The sidewalks became a living tapestry of diversity and sartorial creativity, where the amalgamation of cultures, personalities, and perspectives wove together to form a captivating tableau. The streets became an interactive stage, where passersby could partake in the celebration of self-expression and bear witness to the kaleidoscope of fashion that flourished during NYFW.

Final Thoughts & Extra Outtakes:

My exclusive foray into the captivating world of New York Fashion Week 2024, courtesy of The Bureau, was nothing short of a sensory feast, surpassing the boundaries of conventional style and leaving an indelible mark upon my being. From the front row to the intimate backstage moments, each facet of this immersive experience unveiled an experience of artistry, elegance, and innovation. It reaffirmed New York City as the ultimate fashion capital, a realm where dreams are stitched into reality, and where the boundaries of creativity are pushed ever further. And at the heart of this unforgettable journey was the couture show by Randhawa Brands, a breathtaking showcase.

In the end, New York Fashion Week Spring 2024 wasn't just a series of runway shows; it was a journey through the dynamic landscape of style, leaving an indelible mark on my perception of fashion. As the curtains closed on this chapter, I walked away inspired, energized, and with a newfound appreciation for the transformative power of fashion in our lives.

Have you ever attended NYFW? I know I’d definitely love to go back for a fall show (maybe 2025). Let’s chat about it in the comments below! Later, babes💕

Xx, Bree

P.S. Pssssst! If you wanna get a better look at the runway photos, be sure to check out my shots in my portfolio section, and also be sure to check out Randhawa Brands website too for some awesome inspiration!

COMPLEX: Runway Show

During my hiatus from writing this past summer, something I thought a lot about was what kinds of stories I wanted to cover when I returned to the blogging world. Yes, of course I still wanted to do my style posts, but I also needed things with more depth involving things that were not just about my personal style, things that would spark peoples interest or raise awareness about a cause.

Well luckily after stepping back into the blogging scene, I was fortunate enough to be thrust right back into the fashion world as well as the Pittsburgh public eye. Since returning I have had the opportunity to write about a charity event benefiting the the homeless, attended an exclusive press event for ModCloth, conduct two kick-ass interviews with the lovely Ilana Harkavy and Brian David, as well as attend two fashion shows as both press and as a V.I.P. guest. And for those of you who are wondering, yes, this article is about the second fashion show which was titled COMPLEX.

How I Got the Gig

Unlike Fashion Week Downtown which was just pure luck due to my friend Jeanette reaching out to me, for COMPLEX I was actually invited as a V.I.P. and press due to my coverage of Fashion Week Downtown. Lauren Long, the coordinator of the event, and TaRonda Brown the owner of the local Pittsburgh boutique Brown Sugar, were impressed by my work and decided I would be the perfect fit to cover the story, so they were kind enough to give my a free ticket in exchange for coverage. This being said I was so excited for an opportunity not only to attend another runway show, but to work with and meet more Pittsburgh designers!

Entertainment, Cocktails, and Shopping, OH MY!

The show itself took place at the Greater Pittsburgh Coliseum in Homewood North. It was a very neat venue and the crew did an awesome job of setting up both seating and the runway. Another unique aspect I liked about this show was that each of the designers had pop up booths set up so you could actually shop the runway during intermission, of if you were a V.I.P. even before the show. (Which I totally did and that post will be coming soon--hint: I got a gorgeous piece from Brown Sugar and will be styling it when John and I take our mini vacation over Thanksgiving!) 

Speaking of intermission, and let's not forget the V.I.P. cocktail hour prior the show, the first thing I have to say is DJ G-BO did an excellent job. The music selection was great and gave the event a very cool vibe. Then the audience got to enjoy talents of radio personalities DJ Mike Dean and DJ Duffy of Basketball Wives LA, who where the announcers for the show, they were absolutely spot on with their lovely personalities and great senses of humor. And this brings me to the last of the entertainment portion that did not involve clothing and models, the intermission. During intermission, rising star and Pittsburgh makeup artist Norman Freeman, hosted a catwalk competition for the women in the audience, which I participated in and (surprisingly) won! (I have to admit that it gave me some major confidence for the next show I will be attending and actually walking in on December 9th more details on that coming soon.) So needless to say the extra (and unique) interaction with the audience and music really made this event a blast! 

C O M P L E X 

Now for the part I'm sure everyone has been waiting for: the details about COMPLEX: Runway Show! 

The theme for this show was much different than that of Fashion Week Downtown which mainly focused on couture pieces and not so much urban fashion. COMPLEX on the other hand, though some designers featured some beautiful party dresses, really had a focus on urban/street style. The clothing I saw on COMPLEX's runway were definitely clothes every urban woman would love to style. This being said I'm sure come next year when I'm back in the city for college you'll see me donning some pieces, or at least ones similar, by these designers because when it comes to clothes and styling, I always try to stand out.

So you can see exactly what I am talking about, here are a few of my favorite shots from the runway in the photo reel below:

Designers: LACED Apparel, ORIGINAL CRACKAGE, L.O.U.D. Collection, Dirtgag Couture, Imihi Designs, Cherish by Cherie, Brown Sugar, Willie Gees, L'exito, and Eclectic Adonis

And if you would like to see ALL my work from this show, I now have a tab for it in my "PORTFOLIO" section, or you can just click here!

Final Thoughts

Much like Fashion Week Downtown, I had a wonderful time at COMPLEX Runway Show and would love to see more shows like each of them in the future. This is because they are such a great way to bring together the fashion community in Pittsburgh as well as shine light on the AMAZING designers that call this wonderful city home. 

What were some of your favorite looks from COMPLEX? Let's chat about them in the comments below, I would love to hear what you think!

Ilana Harkavy & The Just, Girl. Project.

As I stated in a past post, with my blog's 2 year anniversary coming up I want to start covering some more serious topics here. And with that being said, when I came across Ilana Harkavy on Instagram and began reading about her Just, Girl. Project I knew that this was a story I absolutely needed to talk about.

Photography by Keith Weidner

Normally, this is the part where I would dive in and begin telling you about Ilana and her project however, I'm going to let her tell you about it herself because she was kind enough to let me interview her!  So let's get to it.

The Just, Girl. Project.

Bree Fesh: Though I have read a bit about you andThe Just, Girl. Project, to start off this interview tell me a little about yourself! How long have you been a musician and what made you decide to start this project?

 Ilana Harkavy: Hi! My name is Ilana and I am an LA based musician. I have been singing and songwriting for my entire life! I had an exciting career in electronic dance music and was able to collaborate and tour with some amazing artists worldwide. I also worked on music that was featured on TV and in films. I had a blast! I feel so grateful for those opportunities! But to be honest, I never felt truly satisfied. I decided I wanted to get back to my first love, my roots—Pop music. So, I created my very first solo project, Just, Girl.

This body of work sheds light on the struggles I’ve faced as a young woman and the mottos I’ve adopted to overcome them. I’ve put my heart and soul into this project.

So… It is with glowing pride that I present to you The Just, Girl. Project.

 The Just, Girl. Project is a fiery art movement that empowers girls to embrace their passions, be blatantly honest, and to take ownership of their individual struggles. Through the power of music, this project relates to and empowers girls to be the utmost honest version of themselves, take responsibility for who they are, and go after what they are most passionate about.

I wanted to provide something functional and relatable that would spread positivity, inspiration, and happiness, and inspire my fellow girls to do the same with their own art. 

Photography by Keith Weidner

BF: I really like your positivity and thoughts (well I’d have to say truths) about people being able to create their own happiness. Have you always had this outlook? If not what was your turning point, and what issome advice you could give to young women who are trying to bring more positivity into their lives?

IH: I spent a large portion of my life blaming other people and “society/the media” for my depression, but I’ve come to realize that my happiness is dependent on my attitude and the way I decide to perceive myself.  Once I realized that I held that kind of power, I was able to train myself to get out of that cycle.  I still struggle--I have days where I feel so low that everyone can feel it, but I bounce back much quicker now, so that’s progress!

The truth is that if you decide to own how incredible, amazing, and unique you are, you’ll live a much happier life. You have the ability to shift your attitude, even when you feel miserable.  It’s important to talk about the things that make you uncomfortable, whether it’s with loved ones, a professional, or even yourself (I talk to myself all the time!). Once you open up and express yourself, you’ll start to work through the kinks, and you’ll see color again. I know that being okay with yourself and loving who you are is a CONSTANT cycle, but you can never truly be okay with yourself if you don’t allow yourself to be. 

BF: While reading about The Just, Girl. Project, I noticed you stated a big influence that prompted you to do this body of work was due to the promotion of eating disorders and lack of self-love on social media. Have these issues ever hit close to home for you, and if so, how? 

IH: As a teenager, I struggled with eating disorders, negative self-talk, bullying from my peers, and mental health diagnosis after diagnosis from doctors and teachers. Everyone had an opinion, and those opinions stuck with me and became my identity. But as I’ve grown, I’ve learned that the opinions of others, while important to me, cannot affect the way I feel about myself if I decide not to let them. I turn to music to express my frustrations. I create my art as an expression of my soul–my wants, my needs…my heart.

I still struggle with my body...  We have a love hate relationship. I’m not here to tell people that eating disorders can go away like that if you just love yourself, but it definitely helps. I’m a work in progress and I think that’s something that isn’t addressed enough.  It’s great to say “I love myself” but what about “I want to love myself”… to me that’s something I can relate to and it’s something I’ll stand by.

A couple of years ago I stumbled upon a startling subculture: social media accounts devoted to the promotion of anorexia, bulimia, and self-harm. It broke my heart because, not only did I feel saddened by these negative messages, but I also related to them, so I knew I had to stop avoiding my own insecurities, and start doing something to help myself, and the other girls who were going through the same things as me!

Photography by Keith Weidner

BF: Aside from promoting positivity and self-love, how else do you feel The Just, Girl. Project helps to empower young women?

IH: The Just, Girl. Project isn’t full-fledged yet, but it will be.  I want this movement to grow exponentially. I want to start The Just, Girl. Project mentorship program and a non-profit and foundation, a record label and management company where we can develop artists with strong social messages, and a global movement!

I’ve been a business owner for almost 7 years and it’s been a blessing, because it’s taught me to be self-sufficient. I want to teach girls the skills they need to feel independent, inspire them to pursue entrepreneurship, and not give up on their art. I want this project to provide as many girls as it can with the tools, resources, and support they need to do their thang.  Cause let’s face it, working for yourself is badass.

BF: Due to the name of this project, I would be willing to bet that you believe in feminism. So, I would like to know what feminism means to you, as well as why you feel it is important in today's society?

IH: The F word? Just kidding.

Feminism has turned into this bad word, hasn’t it? It’s a shame.  Feminism was founded on such an amazing ideology, but I think it’s portrayed by the media and organizations in so many different lights right now, that you sort of have to find your fit. The 1960’s Feminist Movement was meant to promote equality, and we should never forget that or take for granted how hard those women fought to bring us to this point.

I consider myself a feminist because I too believe in the equality of men and women. For me, feminism is about solidarity. Women have a bond that men will never understand (yes, men have their own bond), so I think we should embrace it and empower one another.  It’s that simple. I don’t believe women are superior to men or the same. We are different in many ways and that’s OK. But as long as this new wave of feminism embraces solidarity and avoids radical hatred towards men, I think it will continue to grow beautifully.

Photography by Keith Weidner

 BF: Though girl culture is going in a more positive direction in recent years, what are somethings you would like to see within the community to strengthen it even more?

IH: OMG, I’m in love with the #girlpower movement! I’m so grateful for social media’s influence to make it a thing.

But, I really think we need to stop with the name-calling. Terms like “mean girl”, “curvy girl”,“normal body type” are poisonous.  Like, can we just stop? We need to stress the importance of diversity!

And…the struggle! Not everything is sparkles and rainbows.  Life can flat out suck, especially for younger girls who experience emotions like a typhoon on steroids.  I think something as simple as influencing the music industry to address these uncomfortable issues will really change the game.  I hear a lot of self-love songs and I’m grateful to know they are there, but what about the struggle songs?  They are there, but I want more.

And we need to give girls the tools they need to get through it all!  Inspirational talks are great, but if there’s no solution or answers, are they going to do much beyond the surface?

I have way too many opinions about this and thoughts and ideas… but the ultimate thing I want to stress is…let’s stop sugar-coating and start getting real.

 BF: What has been the hardest part of putting this project together?

IH: Financially it’s been difficult.  It’s easy to avoid something that doesn’t provide you with monetary compensation, but knowing I get to do what I love (mentoring girls and learning from them), makes it utterly worthwhile… and I mean that. 

And I always compare myself and my success/lack of success to other women, but that’s just unproductive… It’s so easy to get discouraged, but…

The ultimate win for me has been that I discovered my purpose in life! This started as a music project, but it’s evolved in to so much more. The Just, Girl. Project is here to make waves and support/empower as many girls as possible. You can quote me on that.

 BF: Due to The Just, Girl. Project’s current success, where would you like to see this go within the next year? And do you happen to have anymore long term goals such as possible concerts or conferences?

 IH: We had a concert last year and it was amazing! I finally performed my solo music and it felt great.

And now, I'm SO excited because we are about to release the music video for "My Body" - a song I wrote about my relationship with my body.  The video is about eating disorders and the battle we face with loving our bodies and ourselves. This video is very near and dear to my heart. Plus, my cast and crew were absolutely inspiring to work with!

Th website is being made RIGHT NOW too!  And come Spring‘17 , I want to turn the movement into a 501c non-profit, and by summer, I hope to have it up and running (but I mean, life happens and so I’m going to take one calculated step at a time!). I want to participate in as many conferences and TEDx talks I can!  A lot is on the horizon and I’m really excited for the possibilities!

Photography by Keith Weidner

 BF: For people who want to get involved and help with this project, what can they do to pitch in?

IH: I would love for everyone to share the video, to help us get some more media coverage and plays, and to bring to light the importance of recognizing that eating disorders are very real and we need to talk about it!

I’m also hoping to bring on ambassadors, volunteers, and supporters, so contact me if interested!

And please,GIRLS, continue to “spread the love” amongst your community (it’s infectious!)

Remember: Your life IS full of beauty and magic, but like everything, you have to decide to see the good in the bad.  Your story is a movie…or a book, whichever you prefer… and while the plot isn’t for you to decide, your attitude is something you can control.  So speak to yourself with love, the way you would to your best friend. And don’t forget to express yourself!

#JustGirlProject

Final Thoughts

How have body and self esteem affected you throughout your life? Feel free to talk about it in the comments below and remember if you want to help out this cause you can follow the @justgirlproject on Instagram and Twitter. Also feel free to check out Ilana's website The Just Girl Project as well as her SoundCloud to hear some great tunes!  

UPDATE LINK TO VIDEO  

Hi everyone! Ilana's video for "My Body" is now live! You can watch it here!