MELBOURNE FASHION WEEK

WORDS BY NFC STUDENT BELINDA FEELY

As we started to file in to this non de script black building in Melbourne, we were greeted with a gorgeous intimate all white event space. The excitement was building amongst us all. The calm before the runway storm…. We were all here to assist Jamie Azzopardi’s runway for Orange Cube as part of Melbourne Fashion Week. 

We began with a quick intro from Jamie and a run down on the client (Orange Cube) the timing of the night and some background on Jamie and why this show is so important to them. Jamie wanted to place models that represented diversity front and centre. Models came from all different backgrounds and where a mix of reality tv stars, models and influencers. This meant that for most of them it was their first time walking in a show. You could feel their nervous energy buzzing!

We were assigned a task for the event and off we went! I was assigned to be a dresser which in my opinion was the best job you could get! You are a part of the action and adrenaline backstage, working directly with the models and looks.

As a dresser we were each assigned a model for the evening. We headed backstage and cross referenced the model to the looks with the run sheets and pulled the garments. Being a show for an accessories brand, each outfit was completed with a set of jewellery and bag by Orange Cube.

We steamed garments in preparation, models did a test try on to ensure everything fit and they were comfortable. Then they headed off to hair and makeup, during this time I set up my own workstation area and ensured I had everything ready to go! The accessories were gorgeous, and each look had at-least 7 pieces of intricate jewellery and a bag. I wasn’t taking any chances and ensured all the pieces were untangled and placed out. Preparation and organisation are key!

As we crept closer to the runway time, models were still in hair and makeup including mine! So multitasking was essential, whilst in the makeup chair I placed on their jewellery and shoes.

As the event space started to fill with guests the atmosphere started to buzz! Our models were ready, and any final touches done. We gave them a pep talk to calm nerves and Jamie got them in line.

As the show began, I snuck a look as I was excited to see them strut their stuff! Once the first walk was done it was action time!  We had about 5 minutes to change looks, which sounds like a lot of time but it fly’s! As each model came off the runway it was go go go. Changing the dress was easy, it was all the pieces of jewellery that was stressful! With both mine and the model’s hands shaking from the adrenaline and excitement, I was still tying up their shoes while they were being called to line up. But we got there! The second look was so gorgeous, and both the model and I jumped up and down with excitement as they waited side stage. We had become a great team in that short space of time.

Once everyone had walked and where backstage we were cheering, clapping and dancing all together! Everyone was so elated with how successful the show was. When everyone had calmed down, we changed the models and started to pack up, it’s important to ensure you have all pieces and they go back to the correct places. 

Orange cube was kind enough to gift each of us as a token of their appreciation, which made for a great memento of my first backstage fashion show experience.

Being a brand-new NFC online student, I dove straight in when the opportunity arose to do this. I had an amazing time. I was nervous to begin with thinking omg I have no idea what to do! But as someone who comes from a background of management I thrived in the chaos of backstage! It was a great feeling to be able to use my other work skills in this new and exciting environment. I cannot wait to have more amazing experiences like this as I learn more about the fashion industry with NFC.