By Michele Smith
Facebook – MicheleSmithMarketing

Sitting in the audience of a fashion show can be quite exhilarating when viewing the beautiful models, the latest high fashion clothing lines and accessories. Planning a fashion show however is no easy feat for any designer and there is a lot of prep work that goes into such an extravagant event.

What exactly does happen behind the scenes? The following is a sneak peek for those who are busy sipping champagne in the front row.

While famous designers usually have a team to help, smaller designers typically have to do a lot of the planning and prep work on their own. First, the designer must secure a location and theme for the shoot. Venue is just as important as the theme; as this dictates what models the designer is looking for. The designer needs to send in the specs to various agencies and hold auditions, if there is talent he/she has not worked with before.

After the auditions, the designer next must schedule a fitting and instruct the agency as to what the model needs to bring/not bring with them to their fitting appointment. Designers also may need to assess how a model walks at this time and if they need to sign up for coaching – this is not a concern however for seasoned runway models, but regardless they should practice in their own shoes or in the designer’s shoes.

While designer clothes are typically assigned prior to the show in a very organized manner (behind the curtains while the show is in progress is hectic to say the least), everything needs to be planned out to the extreme including all accessories. A dry run of the show is also extremely important to resolve any issues and well as organize the order in which the collection is displayed. This is also a great time to resolve any lighting problems, as well as test the sound.

Seating layout is also quite important and a VIP section for media and other VIP attendees is key. Another area that needs to be planned for is for all of the photographers. Releases need to be signed by the photographers and models prior to the show. It is important for the designer to have photo rights to utilize photos from the show if need be.

Finally yet importantly, catering should be provided back stage, although most do not have time to eat during the show and bottles of water are a necessity. Stylists for hair and makeup need to be hired prior and assigned to each model. This is crucial so the show moves at a quick and timely pace.

After the show and another thing to plan prior, is the after party complete with catering. Some designers choose to do a VIP backstage party complete with champagne and it is important to see if the venue requires a liquor license. Other designers book a venue such as a restaurant or other location off site, complete with a catered menu. The prep work that goes into any show is extensive, yet necessary for a successful event.