Today I went to Bryant Park for the first time this season.

I was picking up my press ID, so that they'd let me into the Tents when the shows started. Somewhat less intentionally, I was inoculating myself against crowds and dumb questions.

Now here's the thing: The line for credential pickup is long. Real long. Longer than your lunch break and I don't care where you work. I stood there for two hours today, and that wasn't the worst it's ever been.

Over the years, I have learned a few things about attending Fashion Week. The two most important are:

1. Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be standing a lot, and no one is looking at you anyway. They're all staring at that teenage Ukrainian who just stomped by like a giraffe in lead shoes.
2. Bring a book. You will be waiting. A lot. For a long time.

It's also helpful to have a Zen attitude toward the whole thing, but I haven't quite mastered that yet. For example, I very nearly lost it during the dumb question segment of the line experience today. Sample inquiries below, for your amusement:

"Is this ... the line?"

No. We decided flash mobs never really had their day, and we're bringing them back in a more orderly fashion.

"Is this the only line?"

No. There's a much shorter one. But we like this one, so we're all standing here.

"Is this the line for press?"

No. That sign was put up to deceive you. Also, you're way too important to stand in line, silly. You're a reporter. You know how well we're all doing these days. 

My point is that patience is required and some season soon, I plan to develop some. I can add it to my list, right after the book.