Starting October 18th through the 22nd, fashion will be in the limelight in LA. As Los Angeles Fashion Week grows nearer, participants are gearing up for another busy weekend of celebrating new collections and being surrounded by the sounds of attendee’s appraisals.
Over the course of five days, a variety of designers will host their showcases- a spectacle of clothing, art, and beauty. Despite having been around for years, LAFW is going into its second year of shows being officially recognized by the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America). After being acquired by N4XT Experiences in 2022, LAFW is set to transform. Although LAFW has been a smaller affair in previous years, N4XT seeks to revamp the experience and elevate it with presentations, film screenings, showrooms, and more. This years’ lineup includes some exciting names- Imitation of Christ is set to open the event and No Sesso will close, while names such as Theophilio and Sergio Hudson will pop up across the weekend.
Apart from the designers, fashion week runs with the help of volunteer models and backstage artists. Two LMU students share their experiences with LAFW, with one working as a model and the other a makeup artist.
A current senior at LMU, Reece Rojas found his passion through modeling. After submitting headshots, Rojas has walked several shows. Despite the pressure some may feel in walking the runway, he says it’s manageable. “They’re really not focusing on you…they’re focusing on the outfit and how you complement it”, he said. “It’s really nerve wracking [but] once you’re actually walking the runway, it’s a very surreal experience”.
For Gehna Chugani, a junior at LMU, LAFW is a bit different. After getting certified as a makeup artist in 2018, she began assisting with both LAFW and NYFW. Since 2019, her work has brought her face to face with the hubbub of backstage, rather than the observant eyes of the audience. “I really enjoy the fast-paced environment…it gives me an adrenaline rush. It’s go go go go,” said Chugani. “You go backstage and you have to [change their makeup] while the model’s getting changed and getting her hair done at the same time”.
All the work backstage and on the runways will culminate in an experience that students like Rojas and Chugani won’t soon forget, putting forth an exhibit of hard work and dazzling art.
“It’s very tiring, but it’s so worth it”, said Chugani. “It really confirms to me I’m doing what I love”.
Cover Photo by Ella Kuether
