Rue La La Contributing Editor Lauren David Peden is a fashion week veteran. With dozens of NYFW shows under her belt, she knows Lincoln Center style. So, we just had to ask – what does one wear to the fashion event of the year? For her answer, check out our chat below, then shop Thursday’s How To Dress For NYFW Boutique, curated by The Fashion Informer herself.

Rue La La: What’s the one item you can’t live without during NYFW?
LDP: There are actually five things (since I’m a fashion journalist): a pen, a notebook, my iPhone, my digital recorder, and my digital camera.

Rue La La: We’ve heard different opinions on this one: Do you have to wear the designer’s clothes to the designer’s show?
LDP: The only people who are expected to wear a designer’s clothes to their show would be a celebrity guest who’s being paid to be there and/or is a friend of the house (designer).

Rue La La: Let’s talk handbags – is it better to go with a big hobo or a cute clutch?
LDP: If you’re working and running around all day to a zillion different shows (my record is 12 in one day), a big bag is a must-have. After hours, though, it’s all about the clutch. I like to tuck one into my day bag then pull it out at night (and ditch my big bag at the coat check).

Rue La La: Besides the journalist necessities, what else would we find in your bag during NYFW?
LDP: My wallet, my all-important Metrocard, phone, makeup, Clif Bar, gum, sunglasses, tissue pack, Band-Aids, and that day’s copies of WWD, The Daily, and other Fashion Week reading (including the run-of-show notes they leave on reviewers’ seats, which I refer back to when writing).

Rue La La: It’s chilly in New York City this time of year. What are your tips for bundling up in style?
LDP: You need a great, statement-making coat. That doesn’t mean it has to be OTT, just that it should be stylish in some way. Could be a sharply cut military coat, a chic, fur-trimmed parka, or a hooded anorak with a trompe-l’œil silk vest in the back. Top it off with a great scarf and some contrasting gloves and you’re good to go!

Rue La La: Going from tent to tent involves a fair amount of walking – what are the best shoes to do it in?
LDP: Flat, knee-high boots or platform ankle booties make it easy to jet around town in style.

Rue La La: How do you make an outfit work from fashion show to afterparty?
LDP: Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! Swap the chunky scarf for a sparkly necklace, trade in the big day bag for a colorful or embellished clutch, throw on a cocktail ring, and you’re ready for any soiree.

Rue La La: From the catwalk to the sidewalk, what’s the one trend you think we’ll be seeing a lot of this season?
LDP: For spring, expect lots of colorful leather jackets and graphic print dresses.

Rue La La: You’ve said that military coats are modern classics – any other of-the-moment items you think women should have right now?
LDP: A fur-trimmed anorak is a great of-the-moment investment that will stand the test of time (Vera Wang and Altuzarra did some great versions), and a cozy cashmere sweater in a not-too-trendy hue is another item you’ll love and wear forever.

Our How To Dress For NYFW Boutique opens Thursday, February 9, 2012 at 11AM ET. And stay tuned for more non-stop NYFW coverage from Rue and Lauren David Peden.