Behind the Scenes at NYFW: A Designer's Journey with CISE | Fashion with Purpose

Navigating the highs, lessons, and unexpected turns at New York Fashion Week

Welcome back, everyone! I've just returned from attending New York Fashion Week, and while I was there as an observer this time around, it got me reflecting on my experience participating last September. I'm excited to share the highs, the lessons, and a few surprises I encountered during that journey. As you know, last fall marked our fifth season showing with CISE, and every year brings something new. From learning the ropes to networking with fellow designers, it's always a whirlwind—but that's part of the thrill. Let's dive into that journey, and I hope this post gives you a little peek behind the curtain of what it's really like to be a designer at NYFW.

Before we jump in, I'd love to get your thoughts on New York Fashion Week and your experiences. Engage with the poll below!

NYFW: The Glitz, Glam, and Grind

New York Fashion Week is the epitome of creativity in the fashion world. But beyond the glitz and glamour, it's a marathon of preparation, planning, and, of course, surprises. For me, NYFW isn't just about the shows—it's about the people, the energy, and the purpose behind the designs.

Last September, CISE showcased in a showroom— our usual approach of doing presentations and runway displays. It was exciting to switch gears and focus on showing our collection to potential buyers, fellow designers, and fashion insiders. Each day brought new faces, new connections, and countless conversations that I know have shaped the future of our brand.

Strategy Is Key, But So Is Flexibility

As designers, we often come into these events with a clear strategy—whether it's to connect with retailers, expand our networks, or simply showcase our latest collection. But let me tell you, flexibility is just as crucial. I came to NYFW last season with the goal of getting retail-ready for major stores like Nordstrom. However, what I quickly realized was that it's not just about pitching to a buyer—there's an entire process of building relationships and aligning your brand.

I learned from other designers already in retailers like SSENSE, Shopbop, and Nordstrom about the nuances of those relationships and what it truly takes to be retail-ready. It’s a humbling process, but one that’s so necessary for long-term growth.

Building Networks Over Nightlife

There's a lot of talk about NYFW being a time for late-night parties and after-show events. And while that's true, one of the most valuable aspects for me last September was the networking. Connecting with other designers in the showroom helped me grow not only as a creator but as a business owner. Learning from their experiences with retail gave me a new perspective on what's possible for CISE in the coming seasons.

In our showroom, I had the chance to meet designers in categories like men's footwear, jewelry, and women's apparel. The exchange of ideas and stories from the other creatives really made me feel like I wasn't just at NYFW—I was part of a larger community.

Merchandising Matters

When you're in a space with other designers, it's easy to get lost in the mix. That's where merchandising comes in. I learned that buyers, stylists, and press aren't just looking at your individual pieces—they're looking at how your collection is curated. Does it tell a cohesive story? Does it fit into a larger trend? Can they envision it in their store or publication?

RAISEFashion, the platform we worked with, did a stellar job of creating that environment. Every designer was positioned strategically in the showroom, which helped buyers visualize the products in a real-world retail setting. It was a powerful reminder of how important it is to not just create beautiful designs but also present them in a way that speaks to the right audience.

Challenges Aren’t Setbacks—They’re Opportunities

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that not everything goes according to plan. I had moments where I thought, "Did I make the right call for this season?" or "Is this really going to be worth it?" But then I realized that every challenge brings an opportunity for growth. Whether it was learning that my product assortment needed refining or that retail readiness requires more than just ambition, every hiccup became a moment to reflect and adjust.

In the end, it’s not about achieving one specific goal—like landing a retail deal on the spot—but about absorbing the lessons that will get you there in the future.

Progress Over Perfection

In the fashion industry, it’s easy to feel like you need to have everything figured out right away. But the truth is, building a brand is a marathon, not a sprint. CISE has been in the game for five years now, and with every season, we evolve. New York Fashion Week this year was no different. Yes, there were moments where I felt like we weren’t quite there yet. But when I step back and look at how far we’ve come—from building a dedicated following to being recognized for our community impact—I’m reminded that progress is what matters most.

Looking Ahead: The Future of CISE

So, what’s next for CISE? Well, after this season of NYFW, I'm more motivated than ever to refine our brand and prepare for the next chapter. We’ll be focusing on building our retail strategy, continuing to uplift the Black community through our fashion, and, of course, staying true to the ethos that has made CISE what it is today.

I’m excited for what’s to come, and I can’t wait to take you all along for the journey.

I hope this post resonated with some of you! If you’ve ever experienced NYFW, whether as a designer, spectator, or anything in between, I’d love to hear about your journey.

If you want to see more from this season’s NYFW, check out the full video on YouTube here!