While fashion can be glamorous and fun, the reality is it’s a lot of hard work that requires tons of dedication and persistence. Whether you’re a designer, a model, or a stylist, adding a bit of creativity and a lot of luck can give you a successful career. The past couple of months, I’ve attended several fashion shows and I got to see firsthand how fascinating, beautiful, and exhausting the fashion industry can be. But like other creative endeavors, it is a business that is fulfilling in its many rewards but cannot always be measured by traditional standards of success. Read on to see all of the fabulous runway looks and some behind-the-scenes interviews!

 En Noir Fashion Show (@ennoirshow)

Producer – Dame of RM 1967

Dah’mod Collins, AKA Dame, has been producing fashion shows since the early 2000’s and has been designing for his own line, RM 1967, since 2007. His shows never disappoint and En Noir, held in January, was no different. Check out the footage of his line below as well as the other designers featured in the Philadelphia fashion show. The event was hosted by Miss Posh (@miss__posh) and headlined by These Pink Lips (@thesepinklips).

Designer – Rashida Osborne, Fashion By Shi Da (@fashionbyshi.da)

Philadelphia designer, Rashida Osbourne describes her line, Fashion by Shi Da, as “unique, sexy, and feminine.” Like many artists, she discovered her love of fashion when she was young. In Home Economics class, she learned to sew and the rest was history. Rashida’s biggest inspiration is her mother and, now that she is pregnant, her daughter is her motivation as well. When she first began designing, it was a bit of a transition for her because the industry was very structured and that made her nervous. But as time went on, Rashida was able to acclimate, expand, and try new things, which gave her the opportunity to evolve as a designer. Although one of her favorite designers is Michael Costello, she prefers to follow independent designers, locally and abroad, especially in the Caribbean, where her family is from. Rashida’s go-to look is a dress or a skirt because it is so easy to slip on and then accessorize at will. Rashida uses a lot of textiles in her looks and she says that her clothes reflect the desires of her clients and what’s in style at the moment.

Designer – Iris Bonner, These Pink Lips (@thesepinklips )

Creator of These Pink Lips, Iris Bonner, is no stranger to pushing the envelope. With inscriptions like, “Pussy Not War” and “She’s the Boss”, her designs exude confidence and proclaim the importance of embracing your sexuality. Even superstar Cardi B has been swooning over this Philly designer. She’s been spotted wearing several These Pink Lips pieces, most notably the jacket she wore in the Alexa Superbowl commercial. Take a look at Iris’ designs below!

Designer/Stylist – Yoko J. (@iamyoko.j)

For the En Noir show, stylist Yoko J used the jewelry and accessories of Happy Couture to accentuate her looks. Check out her gorgeous ensembles!

New York Fashion Week – February 2018

New York Fashion Week, held in September and February of every year, is one of the four major fashion weeks in the world. Models and designers alike covet a chance to participate in these semi-annual shows. Fashion-loving spectators and journalists jump at the chance to attend a show, so I was lucky to have attended several this Winter.

Model Perspective – Tamara Carpenter (@slay_in_ur_lane)

Philadelphia native, Tamara Carpenter, has been modeling since she was small. Her mother encouraged this hobby because she, “felt [she] was a tomboy and needed some refinement.” These days, Tamara does print and runway modeling because she enjoys it and considers it a passion of hers, not just a hobby or a job. Because she is an independent model, half of her work is booking shows. However, she has her networking method down pat. She says, “Pretty much anyone I have worked with I always grab their information at each show because they always will post about casting calls on social media.”

Although she walks in many shows throughout the year, the most exciting shows for Tamara are for NYFW. I asked her about her experience and any advice she would give other models.

How do you prepare for a show?

I always make sure I have my standard model bag ready to go. This includes nude/black shoes, dark/light colored jeans, black/white tank top, nude/black bra and thongs etc. If I’m walking for a specific designer, I reach out in advance to see if there is something specific they need me to bring. I also will practice my facial expressions in the mirror.

Describe the relationship between the designer and the model before, during, and after the show.

It’s all business… unless you have a real connection. I have some designers that I always work with because we click (personality and vision-wise). If you are personable and show interest in their brand they will always reach out for your services.

How is a NYFW show different from other shows?

It’s on a larger scale than my local shows (Philly) and you meet so many people from around the country. It’s a great networking opportunity for both models and designers!!!

What is your favorite thing about NYFW? What is your least favorite thing?

My favorite part about NYFW is connecting with other models and hearing their journey.  My least favorite part is the call times. We have to be there so early for hair and makeup because there are tons of models so it can be an exhausting and long day.

What advice would you give other models for their first NYFW show?

Shake off those nerves and GO FOR IT!!! Take it all in and be proud and excited that you made it to one of the most prestigious shows in the country. Not everyone can say they walked in a show for NYFW, that’s something amazing!!!

When it comes to following your dreams and paths to success, Tamara believes “doing what you love is important in life and if you’re happy pursuing your passions…you will always be successful.”

Walk Fashion Show (@walkfashionshow)

The producers of Walk Fashion Show created this series of country-wide shows in order to feature up-and-coming and independent fashion designers. Read on for coverage of their February 2018, NYFW show!

Designer – Alexandra H Corbin (@alexandrahcorbin)

Designer – Vintaj Seventi (@vintajseventi)

Designer – Harlem & Denim (@harlemanddenim)

Designer – Majeeda Monae (@majeedamonae_)

Designer – Fiercely Made (@fiercelymadefashionboutique) 

 

Designer – Ivat (@ivattm)

Ivat is a line of stylish jackets for kids that I loved!

 

One of the best parts of covering all of these fashion shows was the opportunity to network with other fellow bloggers, like blogger and personal stylist, Rajeeya of Sassy Personal Shopper. Check out her website for your personal styling needs!

Small Boutique Fashion Show (@therealsbfashionweek)

Small Boutique Fashion Show prides themselves on focusing on boutique brands and fashion vendors from all over the country. Read on for some coverage of their NYFW 2018 show, featuring model, Tamara.

Designer – Joy Echo (@joyechostyle )

 

Designer – Preston Walker Collection (@prewalk)

 

Whether you are a producer, designer, stylist, or model, it takes a lot of hard work and tenacity to create a successful fashion show. Even while I was working as press for these shows, I recognized all of the dedication and passion that was put into them. Although I am mostly just an enjoyer of fashion and not necessarily a creator of fashion, I can relate to this genre of art because while the creative process may seem like second nature to these talented individuals, there are so many other aspects involved in making a great piece or production. Once it all comes together though, the reward of being able to introduce your passion to the world is often the most important form of success.