New York Fashion Week (NYFW). The name alone conjures images of glamorous runways, flashing cameras, and models strutting in designer looks. But what is it actually like to walk the runway at NYFW? And more importantly—how do you book a gig as a model?
As a model who just walked her first NYFW, let me tell you: It’s not as easy (or as lucrative) as it may seem.
If you’ve ever dreamed of modeling at NYFW, this guide will break down how to get cast, what to expect, how much you’ll get paid (hint: not much), and the real behind-the-scenes madness that makes it all so unforgettable.
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Who Runs NYFW? The Different Productions You Need to Know to Attend New York Fashion Week as a Model
New York Fashion Week isn’t a single event—it’s made up of different production companies, each running their own shows. Some are exclusive and high-fashion, while others focus on emerging designers and indie brands. Here’s a breakdown:
💎 The official NYFW schedule, featuring major luxury designers like Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, and Tom Ford. (#goals)
🎟️ Who Gets In? Top-tier agency models booked through direct designer relationships.
🔥 Known for its diverse and inclusive runway lineup, featuring global designers and avant-garde fashion.
🎟️ Who Gets In? Agency and freelance models through open casting calls.
3. Runway 7
💡 A hybrid runway-meets-retail concept that focuses on commercial designers, influencer brands, and trendy styles.
🎟️ Who Gets In? Open castings with a focus on diversity and unique looks.
4. Flying Solo
✈️ A show for independent designers and small brands, often featuring one-of-a-kind couture pieces.
🎟️ Who Gets In? Models apply directly through their website or network with designers.
🌍 An international runway platform that spotlights emerging designers from around the world, bringing diverse fashion perspectives to NYFW.
🎟️ Who Gets In? Independent designers and up-and-coming brands looking for global exposure. Models are cast through direct applications, agency submissions, and designer requests.
How to Book a Modeling Gig for NYFW
So, how do you actually get on a New York Fashion Week runway? Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Apply for New York Fashion Week Model Castings
NYFW castings open 1-2 months before Fashion Week, and you can find them through:
✔ Modeling agencies – If you’re signed, your agent will submit you.
✔ Casting platforms – Sites like Backstage, Casting Networks, and Fashion Week Online often post calls.
✔ Instagram & Designer Websites – Many independent designers post direct casting calls.
✔ Networking – Having connections in the industry is priceless.
Pro-tip #1: Do EVERYTHING in your power to get pre-booked for the show! Email, Instagram, use any connections that you can. Castings are very competitive and you are not guaranteed a booking. I was invited to two castings, but your girl was NOT about to fly all the way to New York, wait for hours in line in the freezing cold with hundreds of other models, to risk not getting booked. I was able to get pre-booked for Art Heart's shows because I had already walked for their production in LAFW (Los Angeles Fashion Week,) and because I asked. Had I not asked, I would have probably caught hypothermia just standing outside in 10 degree weather waiting for my 30 seconds to stand out to designers.
Pro-tip #2: At every fashion week I've been to so far (New York Bridal Fashion Week, Los Angeles Fashion Week, Paris Fashion Week, and New York Fashion Week,) I've always made an effort to plan other fun things in addition to the fashion week. That way, in the chance that you don't get selected to walk, the flight isn't a complete waste of money because you still have fun things to look forward to (.ie shoot with a local photographer, visit local sites, meet friends, attend a mixer, make social media content for a brand, etc.)
Step 2: Nail Your NYFW Casting Call
During a casting, you’ll be asked to:
👠 Walk the runway so the casting team can evaluate your presence.
📏 Take measurements to ensure you fit sample sizes.
📸 Provide your comp card or portfolio (even a digital version on your phone works!).
Pro Tip #1: Wear a simple, form-fitting outfit (black skinny jeans, heels, and a fitted top). Hair & makeup should be minimal so designers can imagine you in different looks.
Pro Tip #2: Practice your walk in the outfit that you will be wearing and record yourself while doing it. You may want to try out different heel, hair, and outfit combinations until you find the right look for you. You will also want to have a walking video ready in case a designer or production requests it.
Step 3: NYFW Fittings & Show Prep
If you’re booked for a show- congrats! brava! amazing! 🎉
Next, you’ll attend a fitting, where the designer will choose your outfit. But don’t get too attached- outfit swaps DO happen. Sometimes, you won't even attend a fitting before the show, you'll just be given your looks the day of and have to hope for the best.
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The Truth About Money as a Model at NYFW 💸
You might be imagining big paychecks, but here’s the reality:
💰 The average NYFW runway model makes $0–$500 per show (yes, you read that right).
💰 Big-name models walking for luxury brands can make $1,000+, but most freelance or emerging models aren’t paid at all.
💳 Models often pay their own expenses, including:
🚖 Lodging & transportation – Agencies don’t cover hotels or flights.
🥗 Food & daily expenses – There’s usually no food backstage, so bring your own.
👠 Shoes & undergarments – You’ll need nude heels, seamless underwear, and pasties.
Even hair and makeup artists often work NYFW for free, using their own product kits to build their portfolio and network.
So why do models still do it? Networking, portfolio content, and brand exposure.
What Happens Backstage at NYFW? The Chaos & Glamour
Here’s what actually happens before you hit the runway:
💄 Huge glam teams – Dozens of stylists apply layers of makeup and product (which you’ll be washing out at 2 AM).
🎭 Last-minute changes – Your look could change minutes before the show.
⏳ No time to rehearse – Often, you won’t even practice walking in your outfit before stepping onto the runway.
🌙 Late nights & afterparties – The fashion doesn’t stop when the show ends!
What to Pack in Your Model Bag for NYFW 🎒
A well-packed model bag is your lifeline during Fashion Week. Here’s what you NEED to
bring (I recommend bringing a cute & durable duffle:)
👠 Shoes & Undergarments
✔ Two pairs of heels (nude & black) – Just in case one pair breaks or doesn’t fit the outfit.
✔ Pasties & a silicone bra – Many outfits are sheer or backless.
✔ Nude & black seamless thongs – No visible lines under tight clothes.
💄 Beauty & Hygiene Essentials
✔ Vitamin C spray – A protective barrier for your skin before makeup.
✔ Lotion & deodorant – Dry skin + sweat + bright runway lights = no good.
✔ Face wipes – Wipe off heavy runway makeup before your next show.
🍫 Snacks & Hydration
✔ Water bottle – You’ll be waiting for hours with no food backstage.
✔ Protein bar or snack – Energy is key for long show days.
📖 Entertainment for Downtime
✔ A book or journal – Castings and fittings mean a lot of waiting. I swear by my kindle because it's small and lightweight.
💳 Other Essentials
✔ Phone charger – "What's your instagram?" Your phone will die from all the networking & photos.
✔ Your comp card & ID – Always have your model card for production check-in.
How to Attend NYFW If You’re Not a Model
👗 As a guest – Some smaller shows sell tickets to the public.
📷 As press- Many shows and designers invite media and influencers to cover the event.
🎬 As a volunteer – Many productions need dressers, assistants, or social media interns.
Final Thoughts on Modeling: Is NYFW Worth It as a Model?
Is it worth attending New York Fashion Week as a model? Absolutely—but not for the money. It’s all about experience, exposure, and networking.
If you’re ready to put in long hours, invest in your career, and embrace the chaos, walking as a runway model in NYFW is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can open doors in the industry.
See you on the runway! 😉✨
Now that you know how to model in NYFW, let's talk fashion!
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NYFW Art Hearts Fashion: My Favorite Shows from the 2025 Winter Runway
When I wasn't walking the shows or backstage getting ready for them, I was watching them! I actually really enjoyed sipping my wine and experiencing the shows as a "guest" at the Art Heart's NYFW. Of course it was cool seeing the new collections on the runway, but it was also fun seeing what all the guests chose to wear each night.
This year, Art Hearts Fashion, known for giving a platform to both emerging and established designers, put on a fantastic lineup this season at the Angel Orensanz Foundation. From romantic flowing gowns to edgy streetwear, and even a few four-legged models, there was a lot to take in.
Rather than trying to break down every show, I just want to highlight a few of my personal favorites—the collections that caught my eye, made me smile, or just had a serious wow factor.
Lena Mars: Cool, Edgy, and Totally Wearable
If you love denim with an attitude, Lena Mars’ collection was made for you. Her designs took classic denim and gave it a high-fashion twist, with structured silhouettes, unexpected cutouts, and statement layering. It was grungy, effortless, and just the right amount of rebellious—the kind of pieces that look just as good on the runway as they would on the streets of New York.
Carlos Pineda: Romantic & Free-Spirited
Carlos Pineda’s collection was the kind of dreamy, floaty, "I-woke-up-like-this-but-make-it-fashion" aesthetic that I love. Think soft, flowing fabrics, delicate embroidery, and silhouettes that feel straight out of an Italian summer romance novel. His designs were the perfect mix of bohemian and elegant, proving that effortless style doesn’t have to be simple.
Anthony Rubio: The Most Adorable Show of Fashion Week
You know what makes fashion instantly better? Dogs in couture. Anthony Rubio is known for his incredibly detailed and high-fashion pet designs, and his NYFW show was everything I hoped it would be. Models strutted the runway in gorgeous outfits, accompanied by impeccably dressed dogs (and a cat) who were the real stars of the show. It was cute, fun, and a refreshing break from the high-fashion seriousness of the week.
Maribel Julcahuanca: Drama, Drama, Drama (in the Best Way)
If you're someone who loves statement pieces, Maribels' collection was a dream. Picture oversized, structured gowns, bold silhouettes, and hats so big they should probably have their own postal code. Every look was like a walking piece of art—it was dramatic, it was over-the-top, and it was absolutely stunning.
Giannina Azar: Goddess Energy Only
If ethereal, flowing, goddess-like dresses are your thing, Giannina Azar delivered. Her collection was all about movement, shimmer, and opulence, with dresses that looked like they belonged on a red carpet in Santorini or draped over a literal Greek goddess. It was glamour turned all the way up, and I loved every second of it.
Final Thoughts on Art Hearts NYFW 2025
Art Hearts Fashion brought a great mix of designers this season, from romantic to rebellious, high drama to just pure fun. These were just a few of the shows that stood out to me- but the best part of Fashion Week is that there’s always something for everyone.
Until next season! ✨
Un bacio,
Amby