I jumped at the opportunity (through REP) to assist Vogue menswear editor Michael Philouze. After a day of job shadowing a PR company, I felt ready to get my feet wet into fashion editorial. I entered the Wan Hung model casting room nervous but determined to prove to industry experts that I was willing to go above and beyond to get tasks done and make their lives easier for the day.
I was also fortunate enough to meet menswear designer Wan Hung, who I observed throughout the day when I took breaks. By observing the designer, I learned about how he works with a model coordinator during the model selection process. Prior to this day, I knew nearly nothing about how and why certain models were chosen but am now aware of how some people are better fit than others to match the collection’s theme. Designers select models based on, obviously, physical characteristics, but also personalities. Model coordinators see if applicants are compatible with designers during call backs.
Later in the morning, I met editor Michael Philouze, who also worked with Hung and the models. Him and I reached out to agnès b. in Soho to collect some last-minute button-up shirts for photoshoots.
I realized how you should always anticipate delays when collaborating with retailers. Retailers prioritize requests of designers and editors but, oftentimes, merchandise shipments come in late or stores run out of stock of a certain product. agnès b. no longer held a certain white blouse that Philouze requested. Editors have to come up with alternative solutions for to carry out photo shoots that are still scheduled to run on time.
I travel to New York City quite often, but this was my first day in Soho alone. I had to ask multiple people where I was and for directions Nevertheless, I enjoyed my independent journey in the city.
Similar to when I helped REP I was challenged, tested, and rewarded with valuable lessons about how the fashion industry works. I felt exhausted by the end of the day but even more eager to return for the Hung’s NYFW AW 2019 debut.
With style,
Sarah
