Attending NYFW made Me Realize My Fashion Potential

I haven’t scratched the surface of my style

My first fashion week was a revelation. New York City is a style oasis. Everywhere I went, I saw New Yorkers showcasing their unique style. And that’s what makes NYC such a cool city, there is no one single style being emulated by the inhabitants. Everyone wears what they want in an open manner.

When I say “open,” I mean I saw outfits that would be a rarity in Boston. Boston is such a fashion-restrictive city. If your outfit is too colorful, too patterned, or too unusual, you’re often the target of annoying stares and rude comments. It’s infuriating that fashion is so limited in my city.

That’s why NYC was so refreshing. There were a variety of styles, designs, and color combinations. I saw many people whose style mirrored my own and many people wearing outfit combinations that I was eager to incorporate into my own wardrobe. I mean checkered shirts, embroidered wide-leg pants, and intricately cut coats and jackets. Don’t even get me started on the accessories — long, silk scarfs, chunky bracelets, and large earrings ruled the streets of Manhattan, Soho, and Union Square.

I felt as if I had found my style city. INYC is about standing out — not blending in. People went about their day wearing what they wanted and not being shy about it. I loved that freedom of expression. I wanted that freedom as well.