Inside My NYFW Look: Wearing A Custom Chuks Collins Dress For The First Time

Source: Lauren Williams/HB

OG New York Fashion Week (NYFW) girlies know the unspoken rule: if you’re attending a show, you wear the designer. It’s a flex that not only shows love and support for the brand but also lets the world know you’re that girl.

And honestly, who wouldn’t want to turn the street into the designer’s personal runway?

While it’s not mandatory to rock their pieces, it’s a nice touch if you do. And there are a few ways to snag a designer’s look before the show. You can buy directly from their store or website, work with brand sponsorships, collaborate with stylists or PR teams, or even connect with the designers themselves .

Wearing A Designer’s Fit To Their NYFW Show Is Always A Moment

But none of these options have ever really worked for me in the past – for several reasons. I’m a plus-size fashion writer, and access to the fashion industry (for nearly everything) has been challenging to say the least.

Further, some designers don’t make clothes in my size. Others do, but my wallet isn’t always ready to make that splurge.

While some brands and PR companies recognize my value and contributions, others leave my emails unread. There have been several times when my outreach has gone unanswered.

So, you can imagine my reaction when Chuks Collins , a Black luxury designer, asked me to wear one of his looks for his show this year. I was floored—humbled, excited, and honored all at once. I had been attending Chuks’ shows for years, and now I finally had the chance to wear one of his designs.

Chuks is an African designer with roots in Nigeria and London. His work celebrates the beauty of women’s bodies, the rich diversity of global culture, and the elegance of nature.

RELATED: Chuks Collins Returns To NYFW After Cancer Battle, Makes Waves With First Runway Show In Two Years

Get Ready With Me: Styled By Global Luxury Fashion Designer Chuks Collins For NYFW

I saw this firsthand when I visited his studio before his Spring 2024/2025 NYFW presentation to get fitted. His space in East Manhattan’s Berkeley College was an absolute fashion wonderland.

I was instantly in awe—luxury fabrics and vibrant prints draped everywhere, fashion sketches scattered on paper, and racks of breathtaking garments. Merchandisers buzzed around, prepping looks, while models posed in front of mirrors, and friends of the designer cycled in and out of the studio.

I tried on three different looks. The first was a stunning black pencil dress with a velvet bottom and a sheer, sequined top. I loved the dress—but my arms said “no thanks.” The second was more flowy, but wasn’t my vibe or how I like to dress my shape.

The third? Absolute fire – and a whole vibe.

The dress I chose was crafted from a light purple and black African-inspired print, tailored to perfection. “I love this color on you,” Chuks said when I came out in his dress. “I really love this actually .”

Source: Lauren Williams/HB

It featured tiered shoulders, a slightly cinched waist, and flared hips. The bottom of the midi-length dress had a sleek V-shaped hemline and a front slit. The cool thing about the piece is that it can be dressed up or down.

We styled it with a simple gold leaf belt to add some extra shape and flair. I completed the look with a light purple, cream, and blue ombre globe feather clutch.

Chuks Collins Presents Nne: ‘An Ode To Mama And Womanhood’ At NYFW September 2024

Source: Johnny Nunez / Getty

Walking into Nne , Chuks’ September 2024 NYFW presentation, was a different experience. Attendees immediately recognized the designer’s work, commenting on the fit, my attitude, and overall slay.

I smiled and proudly mentioned Chuks with each photo request.

Watching his collection come down the runway gave me an even deeper appreciation for his artistry and aesthetic . The rich colors and elegant silhouettes echoed the beauty of my own dress. Chuks’ passion was clear in every piece.

Wearing one of his designs made me feel more connected to his fashion vision – and the fashion industry – like never before. But, then again, why wouldn’t I? In Chuks Collins, I was that girl .

See our runway coverage of full collection below. To pick up your own iconic piece, click here .

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