Day 3: Be Nice

Photographed by RC3Design
Venexiana Fall 2012

Advice in my opinion is an asset to life; whether you take it or not. Hearing what someone has to say sometimes opens you to understand xyz more. And sometimes it even teaches you just how much you disagree. Either way, without advice, you're a fool.

On Day 3 of Fashion Week, the advice to be nice had a grand presence. It was in my conversation with two people I don't even know, two separate times and places, but both were fashion related. With that said, I listened to what they were telling me  and I realized (by the second convo) that the perception people have about this industry may be wrong. Many people believe that they have to imitate a diva persona to get ahead but it seems that just the opposite is being passed on by great personalities of this world.

The media/entertainment industry, especially reality tv, does not help. I agree with this but people need to realize that those things should not dictate your beliefs. For example, I know plenty of people who love Miranda Presley in Devil wears Prada. And some of those people have taught themselves that being that way is the only way to be at that rank and surrounding. This is unfortunate and foolish. Cause even If everyone was that way in that industry, wouldn't you think the nice person would be the one that stuck out? Let that marinate.

oooo

Miss USA Alyssa Campanella,
 Miss Teen USA Danielle Doty
Miss Universe Leila Lopes attended 

Venexiana: I was very excited to attend this show and it did not disappoint. The clothes were beautiful, as well as the people. There were little fumbles on the runway but I LOVED THAT. I don't know but it just made me smile and I think it's cause it portrayed what I tell you guys all the time. We are not perfect and imperfections sometimes are what's most admirable. For Example, like my imperfection in not proofreading my writing all the time. Haha. But in the end, the show was a pleasure to attend. And I even got to go backstage. Seeing Kati Stern up close was kinda amazing too (aka REALLY AMAZING). She has intrigued me to find out more about her. The woman is dedicated if she can come up with 70 designs for one collection. Look at her proving my "12 minute show" remark out the water. I like that.

FW: Money... Sigh (Part One)

Obviously we aren't all Rolling in the Deep when it comes to cash flow. But by no means does this excuse us from having a first class, inconceivable, mind-blowing, prodigious time at FW. This just means we need to plan better and work a little harder at it.

Dining at the best locations may not be unfathomable. Did you know it is Restaurant week in New York? Well it is and ends Friday. Therefore, maybe try an elegant restaurant to christen your FW. Then after that, be more concerned about your pockets.

Finding Cheap Eats is not an easy taste. I could eat from a street vendor any day, but where would you sit in this frigid weather? That may become a problem. A habit I picked up from when I traveled in Europe was eating at buffets. This flat fee of probably less than $10 will fill you up for the majority of the day. And look at that you Do get to eat more than a satisfying amount. I always come through.

If you're looking to eat near Lincoln Center, this is a more strategic taste. I am a true believer in it's okay to eat appetizers for your meal. BUT you do not want to be fulfill once you pay the check. Therefore, look up the menus and reviews for each place you may want to visit during your week of fashion. This will help you make a custom budget for that location and keep you from being smacked in the face by the total on your bill after eating.

My Tip: If you're not into names and prestige, settle for maybe going a distance away from Lincoln Center. It will amaze you in the difference a couple of blocks can make in price.

Next Money saving tip will be on clothes & transportation.

Fashion Week: Social Rejection

Before Mercedes Benz Fashion Week (#MBFW) actually happens, there are many things to consider before you think you're going to go waltz into the tent and schmooze all day and night. For one, there are a series of emails that have to be sent out. Well for those who aren't an Oscar nominee or Anna Wintour, we have to send emails. And if you don't have an intern or assistant to help you with these... YOU definitely have a lot of emails to send out. And many of these emails will have replies that say as follows...

Hi Selena,

Thanks for reaching out. Unfortunately due to capacity we are unable to accommodate your request for the Richard Chai show.

Best,

Natalie

They vary in how they tell you the news, but they are all along the same lines. And I am here to tell you, do not take it personally. It doesn't mean you have failed to be the best in your field or your invitation request wasn't elegant enough. And ultimately it doesn't mean you're not impressive. The reality of it all is that... you're probably not going to make them money, so why waste a seat? And they are absolutely right; which is unfortunate for you. But you need to be mindful of these things. 

There are of course other designers and fashion shows during "Fashion Week". You need to look for those and support them. Mercedes Benz is the top of their class but aren't the only ones making a buzz. Therefore if you're a photographer, journalist, fashionista, stylist or whatever; you can find other places to exercise your  talent and find inspiration. 

Reminder: Also, don't forget that you can watch the shows live from the runway on Youtube. 

What are your anticipated Fashion Week moments?