Day Twenty Three: "Oh S***"

Sometimes, my life is total joke. Well I really hope it is at least. Today I experienced one of those moments when you just want someone to come out from the curtain and yell, “Just Kidding!”

Man I wish that would have happened.

Here’s the story…

This afternoon my professor called and asked if I would mind dressing for one of the shows today. Naturally I accepted the offer. So we headed off to Georges Hobeika’s couture show. I was in awe the moment I got there.

The dresses were absolutely gorgeous, and my style. They were classy, elegant, feminine, with an subtle edge. 

 

 

This was my favorite. Every couture show ends in a wedding gown. It was absolutely stunning! 

I approved...

After waiting around for 2 hours yet again my model showed up ready for dressing. She was very bubbly and gorgeous of course—as was every other girl in the room. There is definitely a model gene. They all have such dainty features, are thin, tall, and blessed with glowing skin.

  

All so beautiful!

Anyway Barbara was cute but we didn’t have much time to chat. After making a slight ordeal of trying to get her shoes to fit properly and me running around to find tape and foam-we had success. The second change was also a success.

Then she came back to change quickly to head off to the Etam show. She had warned me she had to rush off before the Georges show was even over.

She then asked me zip up her leather pants, which was placed in the back. I went to touch the zipper pull and it literally just slipped off between my fingers. It was for sure a gonner. Now I don't like to curse but I won't lie...my first thought: Oh Sh--. Then I stood there for a moment, wondering in my head how I was going to break the news to her. Finally I just looked at her and said “It just fell off.”

Panic spread across her face, I though for sure she was going to cry. I was with her—I kinda thought I may vomit too. She looked at me, waiting for ME to figure out a solution. I tried to see if I could get back on. No hope. I asked my friend Stacey to recruit some help. She gave us a pin. That was not going to work. The zipper was located precisely over her butt crack. Fabulous. Finally one of the head dressers offered to sew them up for her. So he literally sewed them sewn onto her body.

I tried to help by running around to find all her belongings so she could easily get out the door. Then of course the show ended, crowds of people swarmed and interviewers and paparazzi were lined up to talk with her and take pictures. One of the assistants of the production told them she could not talk and had another show to be at. I could see the sad look in her eyes. I also knew she was getting on a mo-ped to hit the next show. Finally I decided to sneak through the swarm of people and said to her…"Do you want my sweater?”
She looked at me slightly surprised “To keep?” 
“Yes, please do! Really!” 
“Thank you soo much. I’m sorry!”She smiled.
“No I’m sorry!”

And she was off. It was the least I could do. My sweater covered it perfectly. Regardless, I just prayed that one she would make it in time to the Etam show and the pants would hold up!

I still cannot believe that actually happened.

I know it doesn’t seem like a big deal but to me it was. I just felt so responsible! I wish I could buy her a new pair of pants. But I have a feeling that tracking her down will be slightly difficult...

On the Louis Vuitton runway...

 

Photo shoots...

 

Posing for Vogue...

 

Working on her portfolio...

 

Doing ad campaigns for VS Pink...

   

Oh well, I guess it makes for a good laugh later. I feel like those of you who know me well will get a good laugh out of the situation too…typical me right?

Tomorrow I start my two-day internship with Rick Owens! My roommate started today and said it’s insane. So I better rest up!

Day Twenty Two: "Fini!"

Fini! Fini!

With my papers that is.

I apologize on this short entry as this day deserves so much more but I am so sick of writing at this moment. Ugh.

 ...........

Today was UBELIEVABLE. Slightly nerve-racking but exciting all the same.

We arrived at the Bataclan for the menswear show—Songzio—a solid two hours early. It was a long wait but worth it.

For one, having to assemble and coordinate a professional designer’s collection for PARIS FASHION WEEK is quite intimidating. And having to actually dress male models on top of that…again intimidating. At least they’re comfortable in their own skin—that’s all I can say. I actually feel as though dressing mannequins at BR prepared me for this situation. Most of the guys were nice and fairly talkative. They were all naturally above 6’ and had the skinniest legs I have ever seen.

I always pictured models being mature and older than me. However I am almost positive the model I was assigned to, Lucas was no older than 18. Crazy! He was sweet though and extremely shy. That was fine with me, I'm not much of a conversationalist anyway, especially when I'm working. Actually he was much like me. Most of the guys were just as interested in socializing as modeling the clothes. Lucas a Brazilian model, however had a slightly panicked looked on his face the whole time. When he came back, still scared, he was like “we have to hurry!” –no crap was what I was thinking. But I followed his wishes and he was the first one ready after the second outfit change even being the 8^th model. “That’s all?” “Yep!” and he ran off…I guess he doubted my speed-demon workaholic skills.

After success in the wardrobing department we headed for the next show. The venue was much more elegant at the Brighton Hotel on Rue Rivoli. Rynshu’s designs however were lacking. Songzio had beautiful pieces that were well tailored, structured, and of the nicest textiles. Rynshu fell short of impressing. Still, it was awesome to be able to watch a show!

__I will add a video here of the show. The internet is too slow and I'm too tired.__

For dinner we went to an authentic French Restaurant. This is something we have had on our list of to-dos. It was DELICIOUS! I had pumpkin soup, roasted chicken that was so moist it fell apart at the touch of my fork, mashed potatoes, and for dessert—mango and plum sorbet. I probably would have chosen other flavors. However I had no idea what he was saying when he read through the flavor option. So my response…”Surprise me!” Even though the flavors were not my first choice, it was probably the best sorbet in general I have ever had! Not exaggerating. It was home made.

Tomorrow I have a day off again! Woo. Shopping? What else is new?

Countdown: 7 days.

Day Twenty One: "Things"

It’s funny how much daylight makes a difference. At home, I have no problem waking up at 8…or even 7 for that matter. However when my alarm went off at 7:30 this morning amidst the pitch black sky—I debated throwing it out the window like I never heard it. It just seemed way to early.

However, I knew that the trade shows were today and that was not something I wanted to miss. Thus I forced myself out of the bed and stumbled into the bathroom, grudgingly preparing for the day and hoping that I would soon wake up.

In all honesty, I never did. My eyes were tired all day. The trade shows were certainly an experience but totally and completely overwhelming. Can you imagine this many clothing, accessory, and show vendors in one venue? 

See Maps Below:

 

Neither could I. It was insane! It was a really special opportunity as students are not normally allowed in to the Who’s Next show. Unfortunately our program gave us too much time there. Three and a half hours would be not nearly enough if we were actual buyers. As observers though, I think an hour or so would have sufficed at each location. It was overwhelming, and eventually everything began to flow together. There were just so many things! Too many boots. Overload on dresses. Excess of jeans. I had no idea so many brands existed!

If I ever have to attend one of those again, at least now I know what to expect! Research, research, research. Research the trends. Research you target market. Research the brands that will be there. Then build relationships. It will make the process much easier. Oh and it would be important to know your budget too—yeah that may help a bit.

Anyways. After another tiring day, I came home, attempted to finish my second paper (fail). And skyped with my parents! SO great to see them. I can’t believe that in a week I will be heading home. Here are some things am looking forward to when I get back.

1.     WORKING OUT

2.     My BIG bed

 (Not this little thing that barely fits my body!)

3.     Trader Joes

4.     My family

5.     White Chocolate Wonderful PB

6.     Texting for free

7.     Melly poo and my spot on the couch

8. Not having to use a converter every time I want to plug something in

9.     TV but more specifically Regis & Kelly

10.  Daylight at 8am

I think I will continue this list. I want to remind myself of all the things I miss about home since Paris is pretty awesome. Okay, that’s an understatement. Paris is unmatchable.

Tomorrow are the menswear shows (as I may have mentioned yesterday). I’m dressing for Songzio in the morning. I won’t lie. I am slightly nervous about working the show. Later in the after I am attending the Rynshu show. Simply watching should be just as interesting and hopefully a little less intimidating for me.

Time to get some sleep:)

Day Twenty: "Too Much"

I never thought this day would come. And honestly, I am saddened to say this but I think I am sick of fashion.

(GASP!)

This past week I feel like I have been on fashion overload with couture techniques, shopping at high end stores stores, and hearing about designer after designer, show after show. It is all very interesting to me—but passionate? Not exactly. It's just becoming too much.

I realize I am all about the business of it. That’s what I enjoy. I enjoy accounting, chemistry, number crunching and equations. I have a methodical mind. However, I do have a constant desire to fill that creative outlet I have and fashion gives me that. I also have a desire to make a difference in some way, even if its minuscule. I want a job that helps someone else-not a job that necessarily brings in the $$$.

I guess it's important to see what I like and I don’t. Haute couture is not for me. Somewhere like Gap is. It’s more down to earth. It’s not quite as pretentious. It’s about practicality and affordability with quality for the mass consumer. I’m a homey person. I like my suburban town. I enjoy family time. I like going to stores like Forever 21, Macy’s, Anthropologie, and H&M. I am excited about deals and look for sales. I do not need a designer name. Sure I appreciate their quality but the name I could do without. And the price tag is purely astronomical when comparing to how much the majority of inhabitants of the world make per day—approximately $1. It just gets ridiculous. The hype of it all is not worth it.

In essence—fashion merchandising is the perfect career path for me—I’m just learning that couture and high fashion is not where I envision myself.

But then again I never know where God may take me…

Anyway—enough of that rant there. My apologies :)

So today was again fairly relaxed again. Slept in just a little, wrote one of my papers, bought some much needed socks to get me through the rest of the trip, ate a demi-baguette, went to class, presented on WWII and the fashion industry, went to Lourvre for free, enjoyed the Egyptian, Roman Empire & Greek Exhibits, and finally went to WOS Bar with a bunch of the girls.

While I had a good time tonight, my nightly grumpiness kicked in at about 12:15 am. I knew it was time to leave.

Early morning wake up call again! We have to meet at the school at 8:20 for the Who’s Next trade show. I’m really excited! I am sure there are going to be some unique up and coming designers—let’s see if I can pick them out.

Good night!

Countdown: 9 days.

Day Nineteen: "Panic Attack"

What did I do with my life today?

Wake up late again: Check.

Go to Printemps: Check.

Do not eat baguette: Check.

Walk 5 miles to shop: Check.

Spend too much money: Check.

Avoid Starbucks: Check.

Eat Sushi: Check.

Work on my final papers: FAIL.

Overall, one failure in my day is acceptable. In which case I would have to say that today was a SUCCESS. It was certainly a very relaxed day. I walked about 2 miles to Printemps and browsed the store for a couple of hours. I made a big purchase for myself as well.  I decided a ring would be a good keepsake. I wear them a lot and it would be a nice reminder of my memories in Paris every time I look down on it. I had seen the ring my first week here. I decided to go back today and see if I still felt the same way about it. I did!

However I did forgot how much I HATE spending money. As I was about to pay, I broke out into a slight panic attack. I began to sweat and developed a rash across my chest as my face drained to a porcelain white (well, whiter than I already am). Quite humorous actually. The saleswoman even asked if I was okay. Oh no, just a brief moment of buyer’s remorse (before I even bought it).

It’s a from Thomas Sabo, you like?

The picture doesn't really do it justice but I'm too lazy to take an original photo-the online one will have to do.

It’s pretty simple but it will match with practically anything which is perfect.

After, I made the wise choice of going up the fine jewelry floor. Wow. That made me feel so much better about my purchase! When I saw similar looking rings for 4,000 Euro, I knew I had made a good choice. I can’t wait to wear it!

On another note, fashion week has started! I will be attending a trade show on Saturday and hopefully working a menswear show on Sunday. I just want to say—because I’ve been hearing a lot of complaining—I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to attend any show at Paris Fashion Week in general. It doesn’t matter to me who it is or how many. One is more than enough and I can’t wait to experience it! I also can’t wait to tell you about it either!

Side note: 10 more days! Ah can you believe it? 

Tomorrow I have a lunch date with my professors. I should probably work on the papers as well. 

Maybe...

Day Eighteen: "Found It"

Once again, I am exhausted.

Totally exhausted.

Today we went Montmartre as I mentioned before and climbed  over 300 stairs to the top of Basilique du Sacre Coeur. 

Check out these views...

 "HI!"

It was stunning.  Like I’ve said before Paris scenes always continuously blow my mind.

On our walk around the town we found this little gem. Sorry to torture you.

Then we went to look for the Café where the movie Amelie was shot. 

 

Some of the girls have a deep love for it. I will be adding it to the list of movies I have to see when I get home.  While I was there, I got a café decafine. As you can see, much smaller than coffee in America. And MUCH stronger. I love my coffee strong and even I had to add some hot water to tone it down a notch. 

  

"Big Manda want more coffee."-In the words of Tiffany

After that we went here.

 

JUST KIDDING.

But there were plenty of sex stores. It was the red light district. Let’s just say its home to this place…ever heard of it?

   

Enough said.

This evening, one of my roommates made plans to meet up with someone her mom knew—she was 86 and had the energy of 18 year old. Really, she could outdo me any day!  She also was a writer for Women’s Wear Daily. No big deal. She has met a multitude of designers and attended events with some of the most well-known individuals in the fashion industry. Her father’s company worked with acetate when it was first invented and made textile designs for fashion designers like Givenchy and Galliano. Again, no big deal.

She also bought a Gallette. This is type of cake/tart filled with apple. Inside is also a ceramic figurine of some sort. Who ever bites into is considered the Queen or King of the night’s event.

 

And guess who found it? Me.

I knew I would. Because weird stuff happens to me all the time. As I took a spoonful into my mouth I quickly realized what I had in my mouth was not pastry. "Uh found it". I mumbled. I thought it would be small, but honestly having a ceramic milk jug in my mouth was not exactly appetizing, nor was having to spit it out in front of the whole table—very ladylike.

The ride home was interesting as well as we sardined ourselves into the metro. I didn’t even have to hold one, as I was crushed against a bunch of dirty strangers. Gotta love public transportation.

Well going to bed early tonight.

Tomorrow start fashion week! Although I don’t think we have anything going on tomorrow.

Regardless I can’t wait!

 

Day Seventeen: "I'm worried about the waffles and chocolate."

Belgium. . .

  

Home to chocolate. . .

waffles. . .

and beer. . .

 

Oh yeah, and modern fashion. 

In reality though. After wandering the streets not sure where to go, my one roommate replies honestly guys "I'm just worried about the waffles and chocolate". True story.

Fortunately today we did have the opportunity to get a taste of all 4 of these. Despite my chocolate sensitivity, I managed to sneak a few bites from a box of samples I bought. I had a waffle filled with cinnamon apples. And I also tried a little Belgian beer. I am not normally someone who likes beer but I wanted to try some (just to say I did) and it was actually surprisingly good! I would order it again.

As for the modern fashion part, the main reason we went after all—so we went to the MoMu. 

The first floor featured some final projects by first year design students studying there. I am not necessarily the most qualified individual to determine technical design ability, but I would say their work was not too shabby for "first yearers". Okay, I was actually in awe of their talent and their skill n creating such complex and fashion forward dresses.

 

 

 

We got to go to an exhibit by Stephen Jones at the MoMu in Antwerp. I took aver 100 pictures of the designs, that’s how awesome it was. There were SO many different designs and each one was so unique. Some reminded me of  friends, some reminded my sister specifically, some made me a laugh, some made me think, some were just plain bizarre. Here are a few that stood out of me. See if you can figure out the Stephen Jones’ specialty. I think it’s pretty obvious.

[Just a little large don't you think]

 [Yes, those are eggs in a pan]

[?]

 [Uhh]

 [For the artistic minded]

 [A landscape for your head of course]

[I always wanted to wear an amphibian]

 

[Rough walk to class]

[Take a little of the beach with you wherever you go]

[If you want it to be your birthday everyday]

 [Tiff, this one made me of think of you. WHAT THE HECK!?]

[Everyone needs a little black dress]

[Visions of sugarplum danced in their heads]

[Going to the opera. And an angry hat face in the background?]

 [The Mad Hatter meets Frosty]

Now I won’t lie, I of course stopped at Starbucks at the train station before we left Antwerp. I was craving a soy latte but they were out of soy milk! NOOOOOooooo! So I went with my fallback of Vanilla Rooibos. It never fails.

 

Really, I don’t think my day would be complete without Starbucks.

Tomorrow is another free day. I plan on sleeping in a bit, taking a HOT shower, and then going to Montmartre with my roommates:)