Nicky’s New York: My Fashion Week Favorites & Chic City Secrets
A love letter to the city that inspires me every season, both on and off the runway.
New York City — where do I even begin? I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Big Apple many, many times and somehow it never loses its sparkle. For me, it’s like an old best friend — the kind you can pick up with right where you left off, no matter how long it’s been.
Downtown will always have my heart — it’s where the grit and glamour collide, where the energy feels a little raw and a lot inspiring. But when I’m in town for Fashion Week, I love to stay at Hotel Chelsea or 11 Howard. Both are chic, central, and perfect for slipping between showrooms and cocktail hours without missing a beat. The Soho Grand is another favorite — whether checking in or just having a perfectly dirty martini at their bar.
Beyond the runways, New York Fashion Week comes alive through the city’s food and coffee culture, chic shopping rituals, and its vibrant entertainment and nightlife. Here are my top picks:
Food & Coffee (Because Fashion Runs on Both)
- Best Bagels: Sadelle’s or Russ & Daughters — the classics.
- Breakfast Favorite: Café Cluny — charming and perfect to start the day.
- Coffee Fix: La Colombe — my no-fail morning pick-me-up.
- Romantic Dinner: Il Buco — the most romantic Italian, full stop.
- Iconic Downtown Dinner: Balthazar, trust me just go!
- Old-School Icon: Le Veau d’Or — timeless and special.
- Modern Chinese: Chinese Tuxedo — super fun, sophisticated, and delicious.
- Hidden Gem: Supper — a cozy East Village spot that always delivers.
Culture, Shopping & Chic Rituals
- A SoulCycle class to reset.
- Wandering through Bergdorf Goodman, a temple of fashion and fantasy.
- The buzz of Hudson Yards for shopping + architecture.
- Strolling The High Line into Meatpacking before lunch at Pastis.
- For books, photography, and art: Clic on Madison Avenue.
- Yoya is the ultimate childrenswear store in the Village—I have to pop in here and buy something for my babes.
- In winter: ice skating at Rockefeller, Christmas markets at Bryant Park, and those glittering Saks windows.
- A must-visit is Carrie’s Brownstone for a bit of 90’s nostalgia, then pop into Magnolia around the corner for a cupcake.
- No New York trip is complete without the classics: the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and of course, The Met.
Entertainment & Nightlife
- Broadway: From The Lion King to & Juliet, it never disappoints.
- Comedy Cellar: A late-night must — and if you’re lucky, someone like Chris Rock might walk in to test new material.
- The Box: Wild, outrageous, and unforgettable — a nightlife haunt like no other.
- Obvio: The new supper club in Nomad where the fashion crowd heads after hours.
- The Rooftop at The Manner: A dreamy spot for pre- or post-dinner drinks in warmer months.
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Eleven Madison Park: If you want something truly iconic, book a table here for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
What I’m Packing: 10 Chic Essentials from Calexico
(Every piece links back to calexico.com.au so you can shop my suitcase!)
1. Tailored Blazer – effortless layering from plane to dinner.
Nili Lotan Anabel Tailored Jacket
2. Perfect White Tee – the foundation for chic street style.
Rag + Bone The Tee in Bright White
4. Slip Dress – one-piece wonder for dinners at Il Buco or cocktails at The Manner.
5. Cashmere Knit – soft, lightweight, and perfect for layering.
6. Leather Jacket – for late-night shows at The Box or Comedy Cellar.
IRO Ashville Leather Biker Jacket in Black
7. Statement Heel – because no New York dinner is complete without a little drama.
Gianvito Rossi Portofino 105 in Black Suede
8. White Sneakers – for museum days and Central Park walks.
Philippe Model Temple Low in Veau Blanc
9. Evening Bag – compact, chic, and goes from Broadway to supper club.
Benedetta Bruzziches Your Best Friend La Petite Bag in Silver Shadow
10. Classic Coat – my polished go-to in a yummy chocolate colour for unpredictable New York weather.
Mackage Mai Coat in Earth Brown
