A Student’s Fendi Experience: A Look Into the Show
On Friday, September 9th, I had the amazing opportunity to attend the S/S ’23 Fendi and Marc Jacobs Resort show at the Hammerstein Ballroom during New York Fashion Week. Although I have been to fashion shows in the past, this experience was something completely new, and felt like I was dreaming throughout its entirety. Even though it happened over a week ago, it felt so surreal that I spent the following days constantly reminiscing about my time at the show.
The night started off with a group of about 30 of us meeting at Moynihan Train Hall to take photos and arrive at the venue as a group. Very shortly after, we started heading to Hammerstein together. As we were walking through Midtown surrounded by the usual seas of people and the strong smell of street food, I could feel the group’s excitement grow as we got closer.
*All images taken by author
When we reached the venue, we eagerly waited in line for what felt like forever. To pass the time, everyone chatted amongst each other, making friends with the people around them and discussing who may be at the show or what looks we may see. As time was ticking down, the line slowly started to inch forward and before I knew it, we were inside.
Once we were greeted by several friendly staff members and received the print program for the show, we headed upstairs to our balcony seats. The main floor below us was dimly lit, making it hard to see what was happening below us. However, the beaming camera flashes coming from all around the room lit it up just enough for us to see the celebrities and press filing in to take their seats.
As the loud, upbeat music that was playing came to a stop, Kim Jones, Fendi’s Creative Director, came out onto the floor and revealed a full mirrored wall behind a massive beige curtain. The audience started roaring and the bass from the intense house music started to shake my body. I immediately got shivers down my spine as I saw the first model, Lila Moss, begin to walk. My classmates and I sat in awe as more models strutted down the runway, including some big names such as Bella Hadid, Precious Lee, Anok Yai, and a very special appearance from Linda Evangelista at the end.
The collection itself was nothing short of stunning, featuring lots of different textures, neons, and color blocking. Considering it was the 25th anniversary of the Baguette Bag, there were plenty of Baguette Bags seen all over the runway as well. These bags were displayed in innovative ways, attached to socks and necklaces, or built into garments.
Although I could go on about this show forever, there are truly no words to describe the feeling of being there. Getting the chance to witness this so early on in my journey in the fashion industry is such an honor, and certainly helped solidify that I made the right career choice.
