LIGHTS, CAMERA, CATWALK
"If someone had told me a year ago that I'd be walking the runway at York Fashion Week, I'd have laughed it off.
"But here we are, and the experience has been one of the most unexpected and rewarding adventures I’ve had during my time at York."
From STEM to style
“My journey began thanks to a friend who studies fashion. I’d always been interested in style, but being an engineering student, my usual day-to-day life is more lab reports than photoshoots. Out of the blue, they suggested that I give modelling a try. So I submitted an online modelling application to York Fashion Week. Within a couple of weeks I was booked in for a photoshoot."
Runway debut
"My first time modelling was for a wedding photoshoot where I was placed into a wonderful velvet suit. That’s where I got hooked. I was involved in something every single day of York Fashion Week that season, and I thoroughly enjoyed how different each event was.
"I cannot emphasise enough how valuable the networking aspect of the event is. I made a connection with one of the videographers; we ended up travelling across half the country filming motorcycles in the summer break. The whole experience gave me the confidence to take part in other fashion events, and I’m now looking to sign up with an agency."
Autumn collection
"York Fashion Week organises two events each year: one in spring and one in autumn. First up for my second Fashion Week was a photoshoot. I was asked to model a beautiful suit for Master Debonair, a menswear store in York. I was also a live mannequin, behind the glass of a shop window. It’s incredibly fun watching passers-by deliberating if you’re a real person or not. We got many waves, smiles, and laughs. Sometimes it just feels good to make somebody’s day a little more interesting.
"I also participated in a few runways, modelling for Designer Exchange UK, Master Debonair, Mallin & Son, Palenque Jewellery and the Student and Graduate runway. Walking in designer clothes, exquisite suits and elegant jewellery really makes you feel like a different person.
"I always enjoy showcasing student designers and their collections. It’s a brilliant demonstration of the creativity and potential that York has."
Get involved
"If you’re thinking about getting involved with York Fashion Week – do it! It isn’t just about fashion; it’s about creativity, community, and making your heart race a little by doing something new. It’s these kinds of stories that you’ll be taking with you long after graduation.”
Photo credit: https://www.hannahlunn.co.uk/
"It’s a brilliant demonstration of the creativity and potential that York has."
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