After a seemingly normal trip to the concierge lounge for an early brunch, we crossed paths with a photographer from Getty Images, Karl, who was in town for fashion week, too. It all started when he casually asked where Katie had found the banana she had on her plate as we were almost on our way out. Katie and I both pointed to a recently cleared buffet and decided it was okay to be down one banana (after all, we did have three overflowing "to-go" plates...) and insisted he took it. We all headed toward the elevators at the same time and made conversation all the way there. Despite the fact we were in pajamas and had just rolled out of bed and into the lounge, I still managed to have my business cards on hand in a tiny pouch. (Never too early to network!) We exchanged cards and went on our way. Not long after, I received an email from him inviting us to see a show at Fashion Week! What a dream come true!? Talk about being in the right place at the right time. Katie and I threw ourselves together--I use that term lightly--and headed out to take on Fashion Week. We spent time at Anthropologie until we got the 'okay' to head on over to Lincoln Park. We breezed right past security and anxiously--yet seemingly calm--strutted right inside the infamous fashion week tents. Beelining for the Candela show, which was held in the tent called Box, we made it just in time to enjoy some anticipation while waiting in line amongst photographers, magazine representatives and celebrities. I'd like to think we fit right in... ha!
The setting of this show was breathtaking. The exhibit, complete with live models and perfectly placed props, was in the center of the room facing out--all the lucky attendees circled around to take it all in. What was truly amazing was how close I could get to these models--since it was not a runway set-up, they could see me taking a photo and look directly into my camera from time to time. So incredible. The backdrops were abstract works of art with beautiful brushstrokes gracing each canvas. Ivory canvas tarps were laid over layered vintage rugs. Some of the models sat on eclectic antique chairs. The whole show featured ornate lace ensembles with a bohemian flair. There were layers and layers of wearable clothes all encrusted with jewels. My favorite looks were the utility jacket paired with a floor-length dreamy cream lace/tulle gown. What a contrast that was! I noted spread out patches on the stockings--I feel like that will be huge for fall. One model wore a red beanie with a thin headband horizontally on top; the headband had the most stunning jeweled detailing. There were mostly pointy-toed shoes, with a oxford here and printed loafer there--all were simply to-die-for. The gorgeous neutrals paired perfectly with pops of deep red, olive green and chambray. I fell in love with each and every piece in the show.
Post Candela, Karl took us into Studio, another tent, to get a behind-the-scenes peek into the runway prep that goes on in between shows. Once again, we walked right past security and into this incredible room; I felt invincible! I could feel the energy when I walked in; this is where the fashion magic happens. An infinite amount of fashion leaders had stepped right through these doors I had just walked through; I got chills as I gazed around the empty all-black room in awe.
One of the best parts of this experience was pouring through Instagram not long after the show and seeing magazines and fashion icons feature the very same looks we had just seen. To think--who had I been rubbing elbows with as I leaned in to get the perfect shot? Harpers Bazaar was one of them, apparently! So fabulous!
We then ventured on to visit the WGSN and Maybelline booths and took a few snaps of the incredible tent. The Maybelline booth had a vending machine full of nail polish in all the Spring hues--Katie and I both got a vibrant purple shade! I will re-live that fabulous Fashion Week experience each and every time I wear that color!
This memory goes to show how every single thing happens for a reason. I am beyond pleased to say this was the second Fashion Week I have attended, hopefully second of many! What a terrific whirlwind!
Ciau,
K.René
