Fashion Business and Promotion student Tara Warby has gained invaluable experience working on the On|Off showcase at London Fashion Week. Tara gives us an insight into her time at the showcase and what she got up to.
How did you get the opportunity to take part working on the On|Off showcase at London Fashion Week?
I was fortunate to have been offered the role by Lee Lapthorne, the founder of ON|OFF and Head of Jewellery, Fashion and Textiles at BCU. This opportunity was presented to Beth White, a Fashion Business and Promotion lecturer, and I am very grateful to have been selected by the team.
What did the event entail?
"Amphitrite" by Jack Irving was showcased at Spitalfields Market in London on February 16th. The show envisioned a future world with a new alien species powered by AI, involving three models in Jack's inflatable, wearable art and a fourth AI-created hologram creature. Before the event, I worked with the production team, assisting in sourcing parts of the set and liaising with several companies. During the show, I worked with Aggie Abelson, who works to produce the show.
What was your role at the showcase?
Assisting Aggie, we set up the backstage area and greeted the hairdressers, makeup artists, models, PR personnel, etc. I also helped the creative associate for Jack Irving in helping the models into the pieces and led them to the show space. During the show, I attended to the models, ensuring they were well looked after and networked with guests. It was amazing to contribute to this event and network with such a diverse range of individuals.
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What did you learn from this experience?
This event allowed me to gain invaluable first-hand experience of how large-scale fashion events operate and what a role in production entails. Although I have prior knowledge of working with high street brands, my goal is to potentially pursue a career in the luxury sector. This event, therefore, has provided me with an exceptional opportunity to gain relevant experience in this area and connect with individuals who work within the industry.
How has your course helped you prepare for this experience?
By participating in an events management module, I had already acquired experience in how an event is run and gained a deeper understanding of the smaller details that you learn through putting on your own event. Additionally, several group modules across the first and second years have enhanced my ability to work effectively as part of a team, adapt to different individuals, and demonstrate problem-solving skills. My course has provided me with transferrable teamwork and adaptability skills that I believe will be extremely beneficial when entering any workplace.
What was your favourite part of working on the event?
One of my favourite parts of the event was networking, as I thrive on speaking to people and learning more about their work and job roles. The show itself was breathtaking and an unforgettable experience, which I recommend to anyone who wants to work in fashion or events.