Top Fashion Shows New York: Fall/Winter 2017
New York, September: The air vibrates, the spotlights glow, and on the runway it is decided which silhouettes will dominate the coming months. The New York Fashion Week dates are considered worldwide as the kickoff of the most important fashion week of the year – and whoever has experienced it up close understands why designers, editors, and aspiring Become a model steps want to learn in order to stand exactly here on the catwalk. What makes the autumn/winter season in New York so special, which designers have shone and how you as an aspiring model can benefit from this spectacle – you will learn here.
History and significance of the New York Fashion Week
The New York Fashion Week is not an invention of the Instagram era. Decades before social media, fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert gathered the world’s most important designers in Manhattan to position American fashion on the international stage. Since then, the event has developed into the most influential fashion show in the world – even before the highlights of the Paris Fashion Week Dates, Milan Fashion Week Dates, or London Fashion Week Dates.
Together, these four metropolises form the so-called Big 4 Fashion Weeks, which determine the global fashion cycle. New York traditionally opens this series – and thus sets the tone for all subsequent shows. Whoever convinces here is sure to capture the attention of the global press.
New York Compared to Other Fashion Weeks
While Fashion Week Berlin is more of a platform for emerging German fashion designers, New York is the epicenter of commercial high fashion with a global reach. The shows in New York are often more accessible, dynamic, and focused on the fusion of street style and haute couture. This makes them particularly exciting for models wondering how becoming a model in New York can realistically work.
The Highlights of the Fall/Winter Shows
The New York Fall/Winter season is known for its love of structure, volume, and a powerful color palette. Oversized shoulders, earth-toned wool coats, and bold fur imitations dominated the runways. But it wasn’t just the clothing itself that caught attention – the staging of the shows also reached a new level of quality.
Star designers and their signatures
The big names of the season relied on contrasts: handcrafted perfection meets urban rawness. Some designers presented their collections in unusual locations – abandoned warehouses, subway stations, rooftop addresses with skyline views. For models, that means: whoever walks these runways needs not only runway and catwalk tips, but also mental strength and adaptability.
Models with an unmistakable look were especially in demand this season – not the classic one-size-fits-all face, but personality on the runway. This also plays into the hands of model candidates with special proportions. Those who wonder which model measurements and requirements are really decisive should know: New York has long redefined the concept of ideal measurements.
Trends that move from the catwalk into collections
The autumn/winter shows in New York provided clear guidelines for the coming months:
- Oversized coats in camel and tobacco
- Structured shoulder areas as a statement
- Artificial fur in bright colors
- Midi lengths for skirts and dresses
- Boots with wide block heels
- Layering from fine knit layers
What Models Need to Bring to the Fashion Week
Anyone who wants to walk on one of the world’s most prestigious fashion shows needs more than a photogenic face. The requirements are high – and the competition is even higher. Agencies that book models for New York pay close attention to profile, experience, and presence. Already at the Casting at CM Models, it becomes clear who has what it takes to succeed on the international stage.
“A model walking the catwalk in New York has to tell a story in five seconds – without saying a word. That’s pure energy, pure posture.”
Alongside the outer appearance, punctuality, teamwork, and experience in handling quick changes under pressure are important. A professionally created model portfolio for casting is a must – it is your first impression before you even take your first step on the runway.
Requirements for International Fashion Shows
International runways have clear requirements. Those who are still unfamiliar with the requirements to become a model should first get to know them. For high-fashion shows, special standards apply – from clothing size to walk. However, the industry is also opening up more and more here: Curvy model is no longer a niche career, but a growing segment with its own shows and renowned clients.
Those who are unsure whether their measurements are sufficient can find helpful guidance on the topic of minimum size for model agencies. And for everyone who does not fit the classic beauty ideal: there are now model agencies without minimum size that specifically focus on diversity.
Fashion Week Overview: Dates and Focus Areas Compared
To keep an overview, a direct comparison of the four most important fashion weeks is worthwhile:
| City | Timeframe | Focus | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | Early in the cycle | Commercial, accessible | Opens the global fashion cycle |
| London | Shortly after | Experimental, avant-garde | Focus on emerging designers |
| Milan | Mid-cycle | Luxury, craftsmanship, Italianità | Strong couture tradition |
| Paris | End of the cycle | Haute couture, prestige | The emotional finale |
Your Way to the Runway – Concrete Next Steps
Following the New York Fashion Week is inspiring – but for many, it’s more than just a dream. With the right preparation and a serious agency behind you, the path to the catwalk is more tangible than you might think. The key is to start early with the right foundation. A serious model agency opens doors that would otherwise remain closed without a network.
Those just starting out in their careers should first look into local options: a model agency Berlin, a model agency Hamburg or a start via become a model in Frankfurt – all of these are valid ways that can later lead to international opportunities. Also, become a model in London is a realistic intermediate step for many on the way to New York. Alternatively, more experienced models can also directly expand their international opportunities through modeling abroad.
Important when getting started: Be cautious of black sheep. The question of whether a Model agency pays money can be clearly answered – reputable agencies do not charge advance fees. Inform yourself about Model agency without fees and check out the Top 10 Model agencies before you sign.
Also, questions regarding How much does a model earn? and whether modeling as a side job is worth it, should be clarified early on. And if you don’t have an agency yet: Our guide on the topic of Contacting a model agency shows you how to make a professional first contact.
Checklist: Are you ready for your first casting?
- ☐ Professional photos for the model portfolio organized
- ☐ Body measurements taken and documented
- ☐ Reputable agencies researched and compared
- ☐ Prepare for the casting – outfit, posture, walk practiced
- ☐ Resume and experiences written down
- ☐ Pay attention to fee-free agencies
- ☐ Application documents fully submitted
If you’re ready to take the next step, now is the right moment: Apply now and seriously start your modeling career.
Frequently asked questions about the New York Fashion Week
How can I participate in the New York Fashion Week as a model?
The most direct way is through an experienced model agency with an international network. Agencies specifically scout models for the shows and present them to the designers. During Model Scouting, talents are discovered who have the potential for international shows. Those who meet the requirements to become a model and are well-prepared have realistic chances. Local castings – such as at Casting bei CM Models – are often the first step in this direction.
What measurements do I need for international fashion shows?
The requirements vary depending on the designer and agency. Classical high-fashion shows are based on specific standard sizes, but curvy and plus-size shows are also gaining importance. Detailed information can be found under Model Measurements and Requirements as well as under Become a Model – Large Sizes.
How much does a serious model agency cost?
Serious agencies do not ask for upfront fees. They earn exclusively through commission if you book jobs. Anything else is a red flag. More on this is explained in the article on the question of whether a model agency can charge money – the answer is clear: No, not in advance.
How do I prepare for a casting?
Good preparation starts weeks before the actual date. This includes well-groomed natural photos, an up-to-date model portfolio, and training your walk. Our guide on preparing for a casting gives you concrete step-by-step instructions.
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