Interviews

 

Tales of a Fashion Industry Intern During NYFW

Leigh King at Lincoln Center 

As the whirlwind that is New York Fashion week winds down, much of the industry's attention is attuned to what top designers, editors, and stylists are musing about following the Spring 2013 shows. 

Over the past week, however, Fashion Etc. took a moment to highlight an experience that doesn't always make the headlines—that of the fashion industry intern.

Leigh King, a 22-year-old LIM College senior and CFDA social media intern, chatted with us about what the last week was like. Filled with 16-hour workdays, endless chai latte runs, and entry into hot ticket shows like Herve Leger and Jill Stuart, Leigh's Fashion Week experience was one she couldn't be more thrilled with (latte runs included). Here, she shares the excitement and surprises she encountered as she took on Lincoln Center in her Proenza Schouler wedges.

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FEtc: What are your primary duties at the CFDA?

LK: My main responsibilities include assisting our communications manager by updating our several social media outlets. The CFDA has a presence on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Pinterest, Google+, and Instagram. I'm tasked with keeping my eye out for interesting content about our members.

FEtc: What show or event were you most looking forward to? Did it impress?

LK: I was excited about Tory Burch's collection, which I saw online. I interned there for several semesters and I'm a big fan of her designs. Her collection was definitely one of my favorites. The models' fishtail braids were fantastic as well. 

FEtc: Which celebrities or big name fashion personalities did you spot?

LK: I had a few great sightings. I saw Rose Byrne, Sonya Richards Ross (major Olympic crush!), Hamish Bowles, Joan Rivers, Kelly Osbourne, Hailee Steinfeld, and Kelly Bensimon.

FEtc: What was the highlight of your week?

LK: A definite Fashion Week highlight for me was being able to help out backstage at Prabal Gurung. I went early to help with the CFDA Design Manifesto project and I was about to check out the behind the runway action. He is an amazingly talented designer and it was really an honor to be there.

FEtc: What three essentials got you through Fashion Week?

LK: My number one essential was definitely my iPhone. Another was granola bars; I know better than to leave my apartment without snacks! Lastly, I always had a good lip color on hand. This week I was favoring NARS Heatwave. It's lively and bright and the perfect go to shade when you're in a rush. 

FEtc: What was the biggest surprise of the week? 

LK: The Chris Brenz presentation was a great experience. The clothes were amazing, and the loafers earned a special place in my heart. There were also some surprising faces in the crowd that I didn't expect to see, including Paula Abdul, Susan Sarandon, and two fluffy puppies!

FEtc: What looks are you now dreaming about adding to your closet?

LK: Lots of floral-patterned pants, frilly frocks, and tough girl looks a la Boy. by Band of Outsiders. I'll take a few Oscar de la Renta gowns, too!

FEtc: Sum up your experience in three words.

LK: Epic, unexpected, dream.