How to Get Invited to FASHION WEEK 🥰
Every year I am blessed with invited as a VIP Guest (with a +1 option) to the NY and Los Angeles Fashion Week Show.
Since I was younger I always wanted to go to Fashion Week. Growing up my older sister was always into fashion and she showed me alot off different designs and patterns. I even watch her 1st fashion show at her college. Watching the fashion show was exciting…I felt a rush of joy and interest. That was the moment I knew I wanted to be a Model. Every year we would hear about fashion week but didn’t know how to get tickets to the big shows so we never got a chance to go. One of my dreams was to take her with me to a NY & LA Fashion Week Show. I would love to experience that together.
As years went by I lost the idea of becoming a model. As I looked at magazines and commercials I noticed I look nothing like them. Light brown skin, facial piercings, and to add more to it…I dress masculine 🤦🏾. Oh and let’s not forget the people and the environment I was around didn’t show it was possible.
Skip forward, my wife passed. That changed everything for me…especially they way I seen life. I couldn’t see myself going back to a 9-5 job anymore. My ex said her friend need a model for a Clothing brand and I was down for. I was shy, felt out of place, and didn’t know how to pose but surprisingly it felt natural. After that I started modeling multiple times a week and then started to audition for Runway Shows. I followed the major fashion shows and continuously watched out for any post about auditions.
IT FINALLY HAPPENED…I auditioned for a main show. I was super nervous but did my best. Unfortunately I didn’t get a spot…I wasn’t what the designers was looking for at the time. But God still blessed me because even though I didn’t make it on the show…they invited me as a VIP Guest with a +1 guest of my choice and every year since I’ve been invited. To add to the blessings, I was even able to give my older sister my tickets so her and my other sister could go ❤️🥹
#nyfw #fashiontrends #fashionmodel #newyorkmodel #influencerlifestyle
Wow, it's truly amazing to hear from so many of you asking how to get into Fashion Week! My journey was definitely unique, but reflecting on it, I realized there are some universal truths and practical steps you can take to get closer to those coveted events, especially for NYFW and LA Fashion Week. So, beyond my personal story, here are some insights I've gathered and tips I wish I knew earlier, all from my own experience and observations. First off, understand that there isn't one single 'golden ticket.' Many people, like me, start from unexpected places. My path began with modeling, even after I thought it wasn't for me. If you're serious about attending, think about where you can contribute or what unique value you bring. 1. Network, Network, Network (Authentically!) This sounds cliché, but it's crucial. I noticed that many people who get invited are connected. This doesn't mean just collecting business cards; it means building genuine relationships. Go to smaller local fashion events, art gallery openings, or even online communities. Engage with designers, stylists, photographers, and other creatives. You never know who might be looking for fresh faces or collaborators. My initial modeling gig came through a friend of a friend – that's networking in action! 2. Build Your Own Unique Brand (Like My "Facial Piercings" Story!) Remember how I mentioned my 'masculine' style and facial piercings? I used to think those were barriers, but they actually became part of my signature. Fashion loves individuality! What makes you unique? Whether it's your style, your photography, your writing, or your personality, cultivate it. Create content, share your passion on platforms like Lemon8, and let your authentic self shine. The fashion world is always looking for new perspectives and fresh aesthetics. Don't be afraid to stand out. 3. Explore Different Avenues for Access While I got invited as a VIP, there are other ways to experience Fashion Week. Volunteer or Intern: Many events need hands-on help. This is a fantastic way to get behind-the-scenes access, learn, and meet people. It's hard work, but invaluable experience. Work for a Brand/PR Agency: If you're passionate about fashion, pursuing a career in the industry, especially in PR or marketing, often comes with opportunities to attend shows. Be a Content Creator: If you have a strong platform (even a growing one!), reach out to brands or PR agencies directly. Show them your unique perspective and how you can offer value through your content. Highlight your unique style, just like I learned to embrace mine. Street Style Photography/Blogging: Even without an invite to the runway, the streets around venues during NYFW or LA Fashion Week are a show in themselves! Many photographers and bloggers attend just for the street style, capturing trends and making connections. 4. Don't Give Up! My story shows that rejection is part of the process. I didn't get the modeling spot I auditioned for, but that led to an even better opportunity – a VIP invite! The fashion industry can be tough, but persistence and a genuine love for what you do will always open doors. Keep learning, keep creating, and keep putting yourself out there. You truly never know when your moment will come, just like mine did unexpectedly. And who knows, maybe I'll see you at the next LA Fashion Week!