Having been told at the beginning of my BA (Hons) Fashion Marketing course that the top four students would have the opportunity to be a part of, possibly even direct the annual Regent’s University fashion show, I worked diligently to throw in my hat to be one of those students.

I had spent a semester learning about Show Production and Event Management unfortunately only through a computer due to Covid-19. It was great to finally have the opportunity to put my knowledge into action and when the two days of show work came, I learned many things about being part of a fashion show, a new experience for me, including this was no easy task. Newly appointed as the production assistant, It was amazing to see everything I had learnt come to fruition! And, incredibly, I was fortunate enough to be given the role… …of show director!

The first day consisted of final touches to the outfits, set designs and getting the rooms set up and ready for hair, make up and photographers. This was essential to ensure the smooth running of the event.

Show day began with a (very) early start.  The first task was to escort models, hair and make-up artists, videographers, photographers as well as other members of the crew, to their positions.

Whilst the models were being styled, the photographer was setting up her studio, which consisted of two completely different backdrops to give different perspectives for the final images.  The lighting technician and videographers, worked closely together, organising the cameras and lights ready for the day to commence with the first collection.  The designers, all of them Regents University Fashion Design students, steamed and prepared their pieces of clothing to a professional standard to ensure the final film would be perfect.

It was overwhelming to discover the amount of time, effort and detail that goes into one production lasting just 5 minutes.

At approximately 11.30am, our models were finally ready to be dressed in the first of nine collections each consisting of four pieces. There were five models and this meant that the fifth spent time with the photographer shooting the statement piece for the next collection, whilst the others were filming for the show. This kept the ball rolling and smooth running of the production. Show producer, John Walford, worked closely with hair and make-up, ensuring that planned looks were styled to perfection, as well as coordinating the lighting and videography, which plays a vital part to a show.

The choreography, lighting and camera angles had to be tailored to each individual collection and during the filming on Day One, we managed to shoot four collections. In a flash, my imagination became reality as I closely watched the shows come to life.

The final day was definitely one to remember. We had to shoot the final collections which we were able to do quickly because of the experience of the previous day.

Everyone arrived promptly at 9am, the models went straight to hair and make-up and we were ready to start by 10.30am. We immediately began shooting the next five collections and I put my training to use having been appointed show director.

I took onboard everything I had studied in addition to my experience from the day before. I found I came up with visions for layout, route of models (a bit like a model sat-nav) and lighting and put everything into action. A show director also must liaise with the lighting technician and explained the ‘look’ required. He assisted me with positioning the lights to create the right effect We then prompted the videographers, who had to work around the set I had created to allow them to get the shots and angles they needed.

Once the models were dressed, we rehearsed so that the performance was perfect and ready for recording. Our models were numbered 1 – 4, so each knew their position and when prompted to begin their walk (on hearing “model 1 GO”). Off they went.  

The recording process started, and I alerted the crew to be on standby. It went something like this. (Me) Prompt – music go. (Me) Prompt – model 1 go. (Me) Prompt – model 2 go. (Me). Prompt – model 3 go and so on.

My first production, despite being about a lot of work and effort, was over in a flash.  My adrenalin was running high and I had butterflies in my stomach wondering if everything had gone to plan. Was my vision accomplished?

My first opportunity directing a fashion show was something I will never forget. As an experience it was exciting, thrilling and invigorating. Worth working incredibly hard for all term? You bet!