My NYFW Must-Haves

New York Fashion Week is in full swing and today I’m taking a trip down memory lane to my last visit to NYFW exactly two years ago. First of all, I can’t believe it’s been two years. It feels just like yesterday I was running around in heels that were too high trying to take the coolest “I’m at Fashion Week” Instagram. My trip was SO much fun. I only attended a few shows but I think my favorite part of the whole experience was meeting new bloggers and hanging out with my blogger buds who are based in NYC.

I was able to network a ton, drink some fancy drinks, and see some amazing looks all in 3 days! If you’re a blogger, and have the opportunity to attend, 150% do it. You will not regret it – even if you’re not a huge fan of the Big Apple! I’ve been dying to go back each season, but sadly life always gets in the way. However, I’m hoping to go in February and to get a very head start on the planning process today I wanted to share my NYFW must-haves in collaboration with Babbleboxx! Let’s get started…

My NYFW Must-Haves

Camera/Smart Phone:

This one is pretty obvious but definitely deserves the top spot on the list. I always bring my DSLR to NYC with me, but I will admit it can get really annoying to carry around when you’re running around like a crazy person all day long. I’ve found that snapping looks from the runway to be just as easily achievable with my iPhone, if not even easier sometimes. We’re all well aware that the cameras on our smart phones are starting to rival point-and-shoots, so there’s no shame in capturing the moments on your phone. Plus, if you didn’t snap it, did it even happen?

Whenever I go on a trip I always make sure I slip my phone into a more protective case to avoid any cracked screen emergencies. The Otterbox Symmetry Series Case does just that. These cases have genuine Swarovski crstyals integrated into the case back, making it probably the most protective and stylish iPhone 6 case I’ve ever own. If you want to get in on this sparkly action, just use the code OTTERBOXBABBLEBOX for 20% off, plus free shipping! (Valid until 12/31/16.)

Total Body Skincare:

This may be another no brainer but I never head to NYC without my skincare essentials. I bring everything – face wash, masks (more on that below), body lotion, shave oil, face mist, sunscreen – nothing is off limits. I never rely on what’s in a hotel bathroom because it’s usually bound to dry out my skin. My favorite hack for bringing all of my skincare products in a carry-on is to use travel-size bottle containers like these, that you can pick up at any drug store. Even in the summer my legs get super dry sometimes and I think I’ve finally found the solution: Tree Hut’s Bare Moisturizing Shave Oil. You guys, this stuff smells ah-mazing. The first time I tried it was with a really dull razor and my legs were so smooth and soft afterwards. I’m gonna go out on a limb and say that’s because it has essential oils like Jojoba and Grape See. The best part is that you only need to use a little bit on each leg so I know this will last me a long time!

Hair Tools & Products:

I can’t tell you guys how many times I’ve forgotten my hair tools or products on a trip. It’s the worst! That’s why I’m putting this on the list. September in NYC is usually pretty sweltering so on previous trips I’ve either gone au natural with my hair or relied heavily on my products and tools to keep my frizzies at bay. Let’s be real 9 times out of 10 I go with the latter. If I’m not using hot tools, I usually like to scrunch and go, but sometimes my hair gets realllllly crunchy if I’m not using a good mousse. If this was 2001 I’d be completely fine, but sadly that’s one trend I don’t think will ever come back. Luckily Paul Mitchell is a legend and has a collection of products that are not only sulfate-free, but smell absolutely delicious! I’ve been using the Awapuhi Hydrocream Whip and my waves have never been softer. If you’re hair is not really straight, but not really curly either, I highly recommend this!

Since my hair is usually having an identity crisis on most days, I like a little help from my hair tools. I used to fry the crap out of my hair growing up so I’ve tried to tone it down over the years. I actually haven’t owned a straightener for over four years… until now! It’s the coolest straightener I’ve come across since my zebra-print one I bought with my own money in 8th grade. LumaBella is a technologically advanced straightener that uses cool mist on your hair before you apply the heat. HOW COOL IS THAT. I was so impressed with not only the packaging but the design of the straightener itself. It comes with a macadamia conditioning oil that can be used instead of distilled water for extra protection against breakage and there’s a very informative guide to what temperature you should set the straightener based on your hair type. I haven’t had a chance yet, but I’ll post a photo of my hair after using the LumaBella on Instagram soon! If you want in on this cool mist goodness, you can pick up a LumaBella on Amazon!

Rest, Relaxation & Fun:

Last, but certainly not least, we’ve come to my favorite item(s) on the list. NYFW is stressful, a lot of fun, but also stressful. It’s important to stay hydrated, sleep when you can and treat yo self! Brands have tons of pop-up events going on throughout the Week, and a lot of them are usually beauty themed, like a makeup/hair touch-up or mani station with bubbly in between shows. Grab a blogger bud and take advantage! No matter what trip I’m going on, I always bring a face mask with me. I love taking 10 minutes to take a break from the chaos and have a little home-spa moment.

Lately I’ve been really into clay masks, and thanks to Babbleboxx, was introduced to my new favorite mask brand: Vichy! I’ve never used a mask that smells as good as Vichy’s. I actually left the Double Glow Peel (the peach-colored one below) uncapped for a while by accident and it made my bathroom smell SO good! These Vichy masks have great texture and I’ve noticed immediate results upon using them. Plus they include ingredients like mineralizing thermal water and Vitamin B3 which are safe for sensitive skin. P.S. Enter BABBLEMASK at checkout for 20% off + free shipping on any orders containing the Mineral Pore Purifying Clay Mask, Quenching Mineral Mask, or Double Glow Peel Face Mask. (Valid through 10/15/16.)