Fashion week is more than just a series of runway shows; it’s a whirlwind of creativity, glamour, and cultural exchange. For over seven years, I had the privilege of experiencing this incredible spectacle firsthand while working as the Social Media Manager for Harrods. Between September 2010 to October 2017, I attended New York, London, Milan, and Paris Fashion Weeks, covering the shows of the world’s most celebrated designers and brands.
Now, I’m ready to share those experiences with you in my new series "From New York to Paris: My Fashion Week Memoirs". In this series, I will take you behind the scenes of the industry’s biggest events, revealing the stories, insights, and unforgettable moments that shaped my time attending fashion weeks in these iconic cities. But what can you expect from this new project? Let’s dive in.
Why Fashion Week Memories?
Fashion Week is one of the most anticipated events in the fashion calendar. It’s when designers showcase their latest collections, and the eyes of the world turn towards the runways to see the next big trends. But for me, fashion week was more than just about the clothes; it was an experience that encapsulated the excitement, challenges, and sheer creativity of the fashion industry.
During my time at Harrods, I was fortunate to have a front-row seat at the shows of some of the most prestigious fashion houses. My role was to create content that captured the magic of the runway, shared the latest trends with our audience, and gave our followers a glimpse into the fashion world’s inner workings. Now, as I look back on those years, I realise that I have so many stories to tell—stories that deserve to be shared beyond the snapshots on social media.
This series is my way of doing just that. Through "From New York to Paris: My Fashion Week Memoirs", I will share my personal reflections on the shows, the designers, the behind-the-scenes hustle, and the evolution of fashion week itself. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, an aspiring industry insider, or someone who simply loves a good story, there will be something for everyone in this series.
The Cities: A Global Fashion Journey
Fashion Week isn’t just one event; it’s a global phenomenon that takes place in different cities, each with its own unique flair. One of the most fascinating aspects of attending fashion weeks in New York, London, Milan, and Paris was witnessing how each city brought its own identity to the runway.
New York: Known for its energy and innovation, New York Fashion Week has always been a melting pot of creativity. It’s where you’ll find a mix of established designers and emerging talent pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in fashion. The buzz of the city, the fast-paced nature of the shows, and the vibrant street style make New York an unforgettable start to the fashion week circuit.
London: Fashion in London is all about daring, risk-taking, and innovation. There’s an edge to London Fashion Week that sets it apart, with designers often experimenting with bold concepts and avant-garde designs. It’s where I saw some of the most creative collections, and it’s always a joy to see how the city’s rich history and culture inspire its designers.
Milan: In Milan, luxury is at the forefront. This is the city where heritage brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace present their collections, steeped in decades of craftsmanship and tradition. Milan Fashion Week is synonymous with elegance and sophistication, but it’s also a city that knows how to surprise, with fresh designers adding a contemporary twist to classic Italian style.
Paris: Finally, there’s Paris—arguably the crown jewel of the fashion week circuit. Paris Fashion Week is where haute couture reigns, and the city’s timeless beauty is reflected in the designs that grace its runways. There’s an air of romance and artistry that makes Paris a fitting finale to the season. From the grand settings to the meticulously crafted garments, everything in Paris feels elevated, making it a city that never fails to captivate.
Through my memoirs, I’ll transport you to these cities, offering a front-row seat to the action while also sharing the nuances that make each fashion week unique.
What to Expect from the Series
"From New York to Paris: My Fashion Week Memoirs" will be more than just a retelling of the shows I attended. It’s a deep dive into the world of fashion, seen through the lens of someone who experienced it at the height of social media’s rise in the industry. Here’s what you can expect from the series:
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
Fashion Week may seem glamorous, but there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes than you might expect. From the chaos backstage to the strategic planning involved in seating arrangements, I’ll share some of the more unexpected (and sometimes amusing) moments that happen beyond the runway. I’ll also offer insights into what it’s like working as a social media manager during such high-profile events—crafting posts in real-time, managing a brand’s digital presence, and keeping up with the fast pace of the shows.
Fashionable Friendships
Throughout the years, I made many incredible friends in the industry. Yes, fashion can be a very closed world but I was fortunate enough to meet many incredible people, some of whom have become lifelong friends .
The Evolution of Fashion Week
Fashion Week has changed dramatically over the years. When I first started attending, social media was just beginning to shape how we experience fashion. By 2017, Instagram was a major player in the fashion world, and designers were adapting their shows to be more digital-friendly. In this series, I’ll explore how fashion week has evolved over time, from the rise of live streaming to the increasing focus on sustainability and inclusivity.
Fashion Week Memorabilia
One of the most exciting parts of attending fashion week was receiving the invites, press kits, and special keepsakes that came with each show. I’ve kept many of these treasures, and I’ll be sharing them throughout the series, giving you a closer look at the beautiful design and craftsmanship that went into even the smallest details. From handwritten invitations to limited-edition items, these pieces offer a glimpse into the exclusivity of fashion week.
Personal Reflections
Finally, this series will be a personal reflection on my own journey through the world of fashion. As someone who spent years immersed in the industry, I learned a lot about what goes on behind the curtain and what it means to be part of such a dynamic and ever-changing field. Through these memoirs, I hope to offer both inspiration and insight, whether you’re pursuing a career in fashion or simply, like me, love the artistry of it all.
Looking Ahead
I’m so excited to bring you along for the ride. "From New York to Paris: My Fashion Week Memoirs" is a celebration of fashion, creativity, and the incredible experiences I’ve had along the way. I can’t wait to share these stories with you—stories that go beyond the runway and capture the heart of what makes fashion week so special.
Stay tuned for the first instalment of the series and let the journey begin!
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