Fashion Shows Are Nice But Let’s Talk Parties

Now that NYFW is just about underway, it’s time once again to think about your extracurricular activities. Here are our picks of parties and events. Many of them are by invitation only, so proceed with caution…

What: The Boom Boom Room Fifth Anniversary
Where: The Boom Boom Room at The Standard, 442 W. 13th St.
When: Thursday, September 5
Why: Whether you call it the Boom Boom Room or Top of the Standard, this nightspot is such an integral part of NYFW that we can’t believe it’s only been around 5 years. Expect to see everyone, all dressed in their finest black, gold, and sparkles — as per the invite.

Who: Susanne Bartsch and The Blonds
What: Shhh!!! (A Fashion Week Affair)
Where: The McKittrick Hotel, 530 W. 27th St.
When: Wednesday, September 11
Why: Nightlife legend Susanne Bartsch and New York’s most OTT designers, the Blonds, take over the home of Sleep No More. This party is this season’s best shot for bringing back the gonzo club days of yore (though hopefully nobody brings the Draino this time).

Who: Nicola Formichetti, Kaimin and Miles Aldridge
What: Zero Zero issue launch with a multimedia exhibition and performances by Light Asylum, The Black Soft, Gavin Russom, Misshapes, Venus X
When: Friday, September 6
Where:, 402 W. 13th St. (after-party at Le Baron)
Why: Host Nicola Formichetti’s social circle is full of edgy international types, so expect avant-garde editors, top-tier stylists, and Hood by Air-clad beefcakes — and maybe even his former client, Stefani Germanotta.

What: Prabal Gurung After-Party
Where: Bar Naná, 63 Gansevoort St.
When: Saturday, September 7
Why: Prabal is one of the most beloved designers on the NYFW schedule, so his after-party will be a must on any editor’s list. Performances by Ciara and DJ Frankie Sharp promise to keep the late-night contingent strong.

What: Opening Ceremony After-Party
Where: TBA by invitation
When: Sunday, September 8
Why: The Opening Ceremony team has thrown some of the most elaborately themed bashes in recent NYFW history, so we expect nothing less from the master merchandisers this time. Plus, the label’s swirl of in-the-know supporters — Chloë, Solange, Annabelle — are sure to turn up for what could be the week’s most Instagrammed event.

Who: W’s Stefano Tonchi and Craig McDean
What: Celebrate Gen W 
Where: 20 Exchange Place
When: Monday, September 9 
Why: The guest list for this invite-only bash promises to be one of the more sophisticated of the week, with the Italian editor drawing a chic crowd including the magazine’s own European imports: Giovanna Battaglia and Edward Enninful.

Who: Daniel Arsham and Pharrell Williams
What: The artist and the producer celebrate their new collaboration
Where: The Standard Hotel
When: Wednesday, September 11
Why: This one’s worth it to see what streetwear icon Pharrell Williams has been up to outside the studio after a summer at the top of the charts.

Who: Glenn O’Brien, Aaron Bondaroff, Know Wave
What: Converse x Maison Martin Margiela
Where: Swiss Institute, 18 Wooster St.
When: Wednesday, September 11
Why: One of fashion’s most cerebral brands has partnered with cultural arbiter Glenn O’Brien and next-gen downtown legend Aaron Bondaroff for an event sure to please NYC’s brainiest culture vultures.

Who: Tommy Saleh and NY Cult
What: NY NY
Where: Le Baron, 32 Mulberry St.
When: Wednesday, September 11
Why: This roving international party draws a crowd wherever it hits, but there’s something to be said about experiencing the event in its hometown. Say hello to all your friends before jetting off to London where you can meet at the party’s next installment just five days later.

What: Cosmic Wonder Restaurant
Where: Jefferson Market Garden at Greenwich Ave
When: Thursday, September 12
Why: If you can get an invite, you’ll be able to check out the spring collection from Cosmic Wonder, a Japanese-French label. And, if you bring a gift to exchange — “Flowers, stones, letters, cookies — whatever you choose” — the whimsical designers will throw in lunch!

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