Breaking Into Fashion Shows
Navigating through the big four fashion weeks in the world. Want to be a part of it? Read more.
Courtesy of Devil Wears Prada
Believe it or not, Andy Sachs from The Devil Wears Prada movie was an inspiration to many people working in fashion today. The way this movie is portrayed and shows the thrill behind working in the industry is truly my Roman Empire. Grabbing coffee for the Editor-in-Chief, sitting in the front row at fashion shows, getting PR from your favorite luxury brands… That’s the dream! Although, to reach somewhere, you gotta start somewhere! Small steps lead to big success. If you have always wondered what it would be like to work in fashion, you have come to the right article!
If you’re a fashion student or enthusiast, then you must know that one of the easiest ways to work for fashion brands is at fashion shows. All the brands get two chances a year to showcase their S/S and A/W collections. Now that all the big four fashion weeks have almost come to an end, it’s time to prepare for the next shows that will take place during September 2024. Here are a few tips and tricks for you to carve your way into the fashion show industry:
Figure Out Your Niche
Fashion shows are not just about models, organizing, and paparazzi. There are a lot more aspects attached to a single show than you can think of! The most important step is to figure out which area you are interested in. Being a fashion student/enthusiast, people usually take up jobs that come their way, but if you strategically plan according to your interest, you might get the position. From working backstage as a dresser to handling the attendees, organizing the operations team, assisting in hair and makeup of the models, working with media and the photographers, etc., one gets a lot of options to choose from.
Proof & Portfolio
Once you have figured out which aspect of the fashion shows you’re more interested in, it’s time to build your portfolio to support your application. The hiring team definitely looks at your previous experiences when it comes to massive luxury brands, but you can always shoot your best shot with proven previous experience or your willingness to work with them. One thing that you must always remember is, all the brands receive thousands of applications before the fashion week starts, so make your application stand out by drafting a crisp email, with a cover letter explaining why you want to work with them.
Courtesy of Devil Wears Prada
Cold, Colder, Coldest EMAILS!
Be best friends with AI and Excel! Let AI draft the best emails for your application, and half of the job is done. You should always customize your email with the specific brand name while sending out your application template. Make sure you create an Excel sheet with all the fashion brands showcasing in the fashion weeks. For instance, if you’re based in Milan, keep yourself updated on each brand participating in MFW. Take help from various websites that provide information about fashion weeks such as Vogue, BoF, Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana, etc.
Wake Up, Follow Up, Sleep, Repeat
As I mentioned before, every brand participating in fashion week receives zillions of emails from students and fashion enthusiasts. There are very few chances that your email will get noticed and responded to by the brand. One thing that has always been proven is expressing genuine interest and follow-ups! If you are reaching out to the brands, make sure you start emailing them at least 7 weeks prior to the big show. Gentle follow-ups and reminders every 4 days can get you noticed compared to other applicants. If you don’t get a response from one email ID, visit the brand website or connect with people on LinkedIn from the brand and start making your case again.
Sit Back & Relax
While expressing your interest is highly appreciated, make sure you don’t spam the brand continuously. Take a break, focus on other important things, and hope for the best. If your application, resume/cover letter, and portfolio are up to the mark, brands will definitely get back to you on it.
The whole process can be overwhelming, but if you are prepared to go to the wall, nothing can stop you! Through the sources on the internet via fashion websites, LinkedIn, and brand socials, you can have all the information you need to take further steps! Connecting and maintaining relationships with people with whom you work can help you a lot in your career. Always remember, every normal person was just plain basic Andy Sachs before she became the right hand of Miranda Priestly. If she can pave her way, so can you!
