How to work your way into New York Fashion Week
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Fashion
After another exciting season, New York Fashion Week SS19 just wrapped with new trends and buzzing headlines front and center. Taking place twice a year, NYFW used to be reserved for the crème de la crème of high fashion and celebrities. These days, with the democratization of the fashion industry, it’s possible to gain access and even professional experience just by being a bit creative. Here are a few tips on working your way into the FROW.
Work part-time as a photographer
Own a professional camera and have knowledge of digital photography skills? Try becoming a part-time photographer during NYFW. During one of the most hectic times on the fashion calendar, many publications hire budding photographers who are ready to help capture the numerous catwalk shows and streetsnaps on the daily. If you also possess video editing skills such as Final Cut Pro and can create multimedia content on the go, you’ll be even more of an asset during fashion week.
Blog, vlog your way in
One would think the fashion industry doesn’t need another Instagram influencer, but it actually does. According to Forbes and Linqia, a content marketing platform, 39% of marketers are consciously increasing influencer marketing budgets for 2018. If you love fashion and lifestyle brands, start blogging, vlogging or curate a social media account showcasing your personal style. Then, you’ll be able to pitch yourself as an emerging blogger to the PR agencies organizing NYFW events. If you do some research and start reaching out to relevant contacts about a month before fashion week starts, you’ll have a good chance at attending shows. It may not be front row at Michael Kors, but up-and-coming designers are always looking for influencers to stream their latest collection live on social media.
Go behind the scenes as an intern or volunteer
For those fashionistas who are curious about what goes on behind the scenes during NYFW, seek out fashion week volunteering and internship openings as there are plenty. From PR firms, rising designers to modeling agencies, volunteers are immensely needed to help with working the information desk, assisting with show details, assembling gift bags and even sending out press releases. If you have a presentable demeanor, able to work in heels and for free, then spruce up your resume and cover letter for the next NYFW.
Contribute as a fashion journalist
If writing about the latest trends and telling the story behind the design is more your area of expertise, then a few months before NYFW is an optimum time to start sending out your writing portfolio. Start by contacting blogs, media outlets and even national or international publications as there are countless collections being shown during fashion week and only so many staff editors to report on the spot. It’s not only a great way to build your fashion writing portfolio, but maybe even an opportunity to get your foot in the door to becoming a recurrent contributing editor.
Photo: Showroom Seven/ BFA