THE 8 GOLDEN TIPS
FROM THE FRONT ROW
In recent years, I have attended quite a few shows for my work. Gosh, I still remember my first fashion week. With sweaty armpits from the excitement, I took my place on the stage. Somewhere three floors up in the back. And I thought it was great.
But to be honest (and also a bit snobbish): there is only one place that really matters during fashion weeks and that is the front row. The holy grail. If you are even a little bit cool, you sit front row. And what about all the rows behind? Yes, they are of course there. But they don’t really count (don’t shoot the messenger, people…).
The Amsterdam Fashion Week is behind us and now the fashion lovers are already preparing for the international fashion weeks. Circus Renz starts in New York and then moves on to London, Milan, and Paris. It’s pushing and pulling, because the competition in the ‘front row culture’ is fierce and oh, how we want to see and be seen. Last year in Milan, they even sold entire FR packages. For about 250 euros. Thousand. Swallow.
I present to you: the golden rules
of the fashion show:
1. I know: it’s easier said than done, but just make sure you sit front row. At least during Amsterdam Fashion Week. You have another six months to come up with a plan, that helps.
2. A tip from me: sit up straight during the show. There are photographers present and it’s just awkward if you get crowned on Instagram as the whistleblower of Notre Dame.
3. In the category of ‘posture’, also an important rule: sit with your legs crossed. This way you look a lot slimmer. And it’s more collegial for the person next to you, because the front row is CRAMPED. It’s like Tetris: only if all the models park their butts in a space no wider than an A4, does it fit. With great respect, I always look at the PR men and women who run around hysterically to provide all the egos and latecomers with the best spot. Guys, it’s a job.
4. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT wear a skirt (or dress) in which you can only stand. Make sure you have a fashionable yet comfortable look in which you can easily sit tight without suffocating. So always check at home beforehand if you’re comfortable in your look. Really, my intestines almost got perforated during a show recently. Not okay.
See fashion from a different perspective
5. If there’s anything rude, it’s walking out halfway through a show. Even if you need to pee. Hold it in.
6. In the category of ‘must-see’: make sure you can peek beforehand (or afterward). See fashion from a different perspective. backstage 7. Chewing gum during the show is actually not done. Taking a mint just before the show is a good alternative and doesn’t hurt anyone. Especially not your neighbor. Because even while chatting, you’re really in each other’s aura.
8. Last but not least: don’t watch the show only through your phone. I totally get that you want to immortalize those looks, but really not everything needs to be photographed. That’s what the photographers are for.
In recent years, I have attended quite a few shows for my work. Gosh, I still remember my first fashion week. With sweaty armpits from the excitement, I took….
Written by Kiki Düren
