THE MISCONCEPTIONS OF WORKING NYFW

NYFW

NYFW

NYFW

This September I had the opportunity to work New York Fashion Week. Although this sentence alone prompts images of couture garments, A-list models, and Vogue worthy moments, the reality of it is a bit different. The first show I worked was a dress rehearsal for Tory Burch. Initially I thought I would be running errands, helping set up the show, or putting together goody bags. You know, bitch work? When I got to the venue I was asked, "Have you ever walked with us before?" Now as you are reading this, you can't tell what I look like (unless you know me), but it is safe to say I have never walked or modeled for a fashion show in my life. Was this lady just trying to boost my self-esteem?

I'll take it. I was given a number and lined up with the rest of the volunteers. We peasants were the stand in models for the morning (yikes). The whole process was quite intimidating. Because the venue was kept secret until the invites were sent out, we had to keep everything under wraps and off social media. If we even thought about taking a picture, we would be asked to leave. The woman in charge led us through the runway, which at this point was just some string pegged down to a grassy garden. Needless to say, I managed to trip over the string, knocking a peg out of place. They looked less than thrilled and I was more than mortified. Unfortunately my stubby legs and walk of a duck were not exactly model status. [Believe it or not, they didn't even call me back to walk for the actual runway show. Bastards.] The second show I worked was a bit more of what I expected. I was a dresser for a show called Indonesian Diversity, which featured five prominent designers from Indonesia. I was not prepared for the amount of exposed nipple I would see that morning. By the end of the day I was unfazed.

The model I was assigned had two looks. The first consisted of a one-piece lace jumpsuit with a corset over top. I had no clue how to lace up the corset because apparently I'm an incompetent dumbass. My struggle was so apparent the designer had to come over and give me a For Dummies lesson on lacing up.

In addition to my lacing mishap, I was scared I would somehow manage to rip or stain the garments. I had no food or drink, and was sans makeup for the show, so the latter seemed unlikely. However, my clumsiness was an unavoidable threat. How could these designers be so trusting of me with their pride and joy?

Luckily, I made it through the show without any major malfunctions.

All in all my experience working New York Fashion Week (although limited) was one I will treasure, even if it came with some embarrassment. It definitely was not at all what I was expecting but hey, I can now say I was a stand in model for Tory Burch.

#NYC #NYFW