The NYFW Fund was back with another exciting group of editors who received a special invitation to join us as distinguished guests this fashion week. CFDA caught up after the week of American collections with Alexander Fury of AnOther Magazine and Tamison O’Connor of Elle UK, both fashion features directors of their respective outlets, to see how they fared this snowy and wintry February season, and all the standout moments they experiences.

The NYFW Fund, made possible through the support of brand contributions, is a CFDA initiative, and as the sole organizer of the Official NYFW Schedule, this program helps to expand the global reach and raise visibility for our designers.

Alexander Fury

Fashion Features Director at AnOther Magazine

What excites you about New York Fashion Week?

I think New York has a distinct and definitive energy – its own style and its own place in the fashion world. It’s not as easy to categorize as everyone anticipates. There’s a clean modernism and pragmatism, for sure, but there’s also the downtown thing of innovative designers pushing boundaries and experimenting.

What shows or events were you looking forward to attending?

I was thrilled to be able to see a Marc Jacobs show. He’s the greatest American designer of the twenty-first century, and it was a joy to be able to see his vision first-hand. I was also so happy to be able to attend Luar. I love the ethos of what Raul Lopez does, its energy and identity and unapologetic attitude. Veronica Leoni’s debut for Calvin Klein was also significant as it’s a brand whose cultural roots run deep and has helped define our perception of American fashion as a whole. It meant something to see Calvin Klein back on the runway.

How do you approach dressing and getting ready for NYFW?

In February – layers and gloves! And good coats, which were also the big story on the runway.

What are some essentials for you when traveling?

I actually love coming to New York to stock up on a barrage of medicines we can’t get in the UK and which I haul around to all fashion weeks. You’re constantly getting sick.

What are some of your favorite places (shops, restaurants, museums, parks) to frequent during your stay in New York City?

I think everyone knows I am obsessed with collecting old clothes, so I’m always looking in random consignment stores and established vintage haunts. James Veloria is a favorite. Other than that, CVS is my favorite store.

Tamison O’Connor

Fashion Features Director at Elle UK

What excites you about New York Fashion Week?

New York City has such a pacey energy to it, which makes it a great backdrop for fashion week. I love how designers really lean into the city when showing their collections, from Tory Burch’s show at MoMA to Maria McManus’s presentation in her Tribeca loft. There were also lots of cool, up-and-coming brands on the schedule this season, which is always exciting to see.

What shows or events were you looking forward to attending?

I was most looking forward to Veronica Leoni’s debut at Calvin Klein. It’s exciting to see the brand’s return to the schedule. Also top of my list was Khaite, Diotima and Tory Burch, as well as Meruert Tolegen and Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen.

How do you approach dressing and getting ready for NYFW?

With temperatures so cold here, keeping warm was priority number one.

What are some essentials for you when traveling?

When travelling for fashion week, comfy shoes and a portable battery pack for my phone are the first things I pack. I also like to bring a lavender pillow mist with me to help me sleep.

What are some of your favorite places (shops, restaurants, museums, parks) to frequent during your stay in New York City?

I love the MoMA and the Met Museum, so if I get any spare time, I’ll be sure to visit. During my stay this season I had a delicious meal at The Noortwyck in the West Village, and wonderful takeout at Epicerie Boulud.