All eyes look towards NYC when one thinks of nightlife. The crowded wall to wall space, the immovable air sticking to your skin, the blinding multi-colored lasers that bounce off the metal frameworks. From Studio 54 to Bungalow 8, New York nightlife has become the birthplace of eccentric inspiration for the art world. In the past years, the city that never sleeps is going through a new revival of fashion and culture. What defines NYC fashion once the sun sets and how does someone achieve the same electricity during the day? With SCAD fashion week steadily approaching, we’ll help break down the essential steps to having all eyes on you.
Balance is key– plain and simple. The conditions change every time you change venue or step outside, so when deciding to show skin, go for that outlandish accessory you keep pushing off for another day. Glasses are a quick fix as well– yes, even though it’s nighttime. Look for pieces that showcase dramatic colors and bold frames. Not a fan of glasses? The same principles apply to jewelry and shoes. Think about what’s going to grab the attention of multiple people wrapped up in their own world. What’s going to stand out amongst the crowd?
“Everyone’s a different story in a different concept and a different element of my being.”
Like with all fashion week collections, a story needs to be told. There’s no better place to tell a story than to a room filled with strangers. Historically, the LGBTQ+ community has truly shined with this idea of the nightlife culture in all cities. Here, they are allowed to explore their identities free from judgment.
Charles Jeffery, designer and creator of LOVERBOY, explored this in a video by i-D Magazine titled “LOVERBOY: Charles Jeffrey Takes New York’s Underground Queer Club Scene.” There he ventures with Sussi (Scott Sussman), an artist who transforms into a new character every night. Looking over his collection of costumes and props, Sussi states, “Everyone’s a different story in a different concept and a different element of my being.” During these events like fashion week or just heading out for the night, allow yourself to let loose and try on something you never thought you could pull off and become someone else.
With all the resources here at SCAD and in your local community, find one of a kind pieces to add to your collection. Help support your fellow designers. Get their name out to the world. You never know who’ll you bump into while getting caught up in the moment.
Written by Brittany Perrone
Cover image by Allan Tannenbaum/Getty Images