Excitement is in the air as the end of this week holds
promise of a thrilling fashion event. I am pleased to say that I, too will be
joining Windhoek’s hip and trendy at the Jameson
and 99Fm Fashion Show this Saturday evening.
However exciting the prospect of new designs gliding down
the runway may be, fashion events can leave both fashion insiders and wannabes
wondering what to wear. Fashion show outfits and etiquette is thus the
inspiration for this week’s post. I've done some research and put together my
own take on fashion do’s and don’ts to help you along.
Your outfit
When planning an outfit for a fashion show the general rule
seems to be to wear black. The idea being not to compete with designer pieces
being showcased. I personally don’t think black is a ‘must’, but would agree that
a fashion show outfit should be kept neutral in colour and simple. It should be
non-fidgety and comfortable. If its versatile and can
be integrated into your existing wardrobe - something
that can be worn often- then that's an added bonus. Keep in mind that at fashion events, the fashion belongs on the runway and the style in the
audience.
From my research I have stolen a few tips from fabulous
fashion bloggers out there. They all agree:
- Keep the outfit simple (in colour and style)
- Wear something you're comfortable in (nothing worse than constantly having to tug at hems or fiddle with straps)
- It’s all about the bag
- And the shoes. You don't have to wear designer shoes or have a designer bag but having the accessories as the statement piece could work to your advantage. If you’re lucky enough to be seated front row, make sure the soles of your shoes are in good condition, you don't want to be spotted across the room or in photos with nasty heels.
- Wear at least one trend, but don’t try combining all the trends together. Otherwise, you really will look like you’re trying way too hard.
- Let your own style show through. Fashion is about the individual–don’t lose your own style in the midst of it all.
 |
| Kim K is perfection in a neutral ensemble, statement neck-piece and gorgeous Louboutin shoes. (Rachel Roy Fashion show) |
Your behaviour
Click onto Fashion TV and you will see the celebs and
fashion gurus wearing their shades at fashion shows; tweeting and texting on
their phones; and chatting away nonchalantly. At any other function this would be
considered rude, but as always fashion plays by its own set of rules.
Eboyne Jackson, Fashion Editor of DAM Magazine and a blogger
for AOL black voices, insists that talking during shows
should be kept to a “hushed” minimum. In most cases, people will side-glance
each other to show their disdain or approval, and whisper to each other, but
for the most part, talking is kept at a bare minimum. “Most people are so
engaged in the show, and are trying not to miss a single beat. If people are
texting, they are most likely trying to be the first to “Twitpic” the latest
hot dud straight off the runway!”
Then there’s the awkward question of clapping at a runway
show. According to my favourite fashion
mag, GLAMOUR, this is a fashion newbie mistake. Yes, that dress coming down the
runway is the most beautiful thing you've ever laid eyes on. And no, you can’t
contain your excitement anymore. But you must! A simple golf clap—reserved for
the end of the show—is the respectful amount of enthusiasm to show for the
clothes. Oohs and aahs may be used sparingly. Fashion events are all about maintaining a cool and aloof vibe.
Of course, on the other hand fashion is about fun, and if you’re planning a
ladies night out (like I am), then let your hair down. Remember, fashion
is visual art and should be enjoyed!
