Babies at fashion shows may not be common. In fact, it’s probably very surprising to see babies or young children alongside a runway. But should it be that way? If you followed along on Instagram in 2024, you may have noticed that I had a little foot-long accessory at Austin Fashion Week’s fall shows and Kansas City Fashion Week’s spring shows. Taking your baby with you to Fashion Week is not for the faint of heart, but don’t be discouraged if it’s something you truly want to do!
If you’re wondering, “Can I take my baby to a fashion show?” then consider my experienced tips for attending fashion week with your mini-me — from smart planning and benefits to real-life advice for making it a stylish, stress-free-ish experience. With the right planning, bringing your little one along can be both rewarding and surprisingly manageable. In fact, 63% of new parents say that attending events with their child helps build confidence for future travel.
How to Plan for Fashion Week with a Baby
When planning your trip, research baby-friendly hotels early. Book a room close to venues to minimize travel stress. Choose shows that are either daytime, more casual, or known for welcoming family audiences. Check if venues offer stroller parking or quiet areas for parents. Make sure your outfits are accessible and stylish.
Family-Friendly Fashion Shows
KCFW has always been so family-friendly – on the runway and in the audience, you’ll see kiddos strutting their stuff or cheering on their siblings and parents. And the founder and planner of Austin Fashion Week, Matt Swinney, has made it clear that it’s been a family effort from the beginning – with his wife and children there in the front row and even on or designing for the runway at times.
If you’re unclear about the content of a show and its suitability for young audiences, look up the designers in advance. You can also reach out to the support team for tickets about stroller accessibility, elbow room in the seats, if you’ll need to purchase a second ticket, and available standing room or lounge options if you need to step away from the show for a time. According to a 2024 survey, 1 in 4 fashion events now include designated “family zones,” proving the industry is evolving to be more inclusive.
Bring Some Backup (or at least have a plan B)
I DID have a sitter in Kansas City! I bought her a ticket to the show, and she was there with me to keep D comfortable and happy while this mama got her work done documenting KCFW. Only when he needed some mama cuddles and a snack was he truly seated in the audience during the runway show. My mom attended with me in Austin, walking D in the stroller or cuddling him to sleep until he was ready to be fed. I did have a seat reserved for her as well if she wanted to use it.
Yes, a baby can be challenging and surprises happen, but I know his temperament and routine better than anyone. And when you’re exclusively breastfeeding, your baby is more than an accessory; he’s the entire outfit and the center of any plan.
What should I pack to bring my baby with me to a fashion show?
The same essentials you already have in the diaper bag! That part is easy: diapers, wipes, bottles, food, bibs, change of clothes, nursing cover. Do they have a favorite quiet toy to cuddle with, a soft book to explore, a teether or chewy you know will keep them occupied? Bring those, too.
Noise levels at fashion shows mean that ear protection for your little one is a must. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), “Fashion shows can reach noise levels up to 100 decibels, which is as loud as a motorcycle revving or a jackhammer.” And since prolonged exposure to noises over 70 decibels can start damaging hearing, noise-cancelling headphones are more than a good idea (maybe even a discrete pair for yourself aren’t such a bad idea either).
But also plan for your own emergency outfit change because babies tend to make messes. So whatever you’ll need to help you recover and reset after a blowup or a meltdown – your makeup, a comb, your favorite breath mints or a quick snack.
Benefits of Taking Your Baby to Fashion Week
This all sounds like such a challenge! Is it worth it to bring your baby with you to the runway show?
- You’re helping normalize babies in stylish, professional spaces. Play gyms, your public library, and the nearest Chick-fil-a aren’t the only spaces welcoming to families. One of the hardest things about mothering and parenting that I’ve experienced personally is the loneliness and isolation that comes from staying home most of the time. Yes, home is the easiest place to be; it’s familiar, has your essentials and comforts, and no judging eyes. But humans are social creatures and the more you get out and about with your littles ones, the better it is for your family and the easier it becomes with practice. I’ve even started a new Instagram account to document and share our local excursions.
- Building beautiful memories early For some, the early baby days are easy peasy. For other mamas they’re a struggle. Doing things you love to do and including your baby can make you feel connected and brighten some of the hardest days. They also give you something to look forward to, and afterward remember fondly.
- Inspiring creativity (even for your little one!) Introducing babies to a variety of sights, sounds, textures, and smells are crucial for sensory development. Engaging with diverse environments stimulates neural pathways that underpin creativity and learning.
- Connection opportunities with parent-friendly brands Many shows have sponsors, vendors, or markets as part of the pre-show activities. And you never know who is sitting in the audience near you or catches sight of you from the press pit.
FAQs
Is it appropriate to bring a baby to a runway show?
Not every runway show. But I think you’ll find that the “rule” about babies in public spaces and big events isn’t actually written anywhere. Be aware of what is normal kid behavior and what is excessive, disruptive, or rude to other attendees. I had people asking me where my baby was the night I attended shows without him!
What gear should I bring to a fashion event with a baby?
Pack smart: diapers, wipes, portable snacks, baby headphones (for noise), and a compact stroller are must-haves.
How do I handle baby meltdowns during shows?
How do you handle meltdowns anywhere? Sometimes there’s an easy solution: he’s hungry! But if no amount of snacks or breastfeeding are helping, you put your exit plan into action.
I am all about helping moms feel comfortable and prepared to take their kids with them anywhere and everywhere. But I am curious! Are you for or against well-behaved babies at events?
Location:
THE DOMAIN
Date:
MAY 8-10, 2025
