Bowling Green Fashion Students to Participate in New York Men’s Day
Bowling Green, Kentucky – Eight students from Western Kentucky University (WKU) are preparing for an exciting opportunity as they volunteer at New York Men’s Day during New York Fashion Week, scheduled for September 5-7. This biannual event highlights emerging brands in contemporary menswear and genderless collections, aiming to support and nurture new talent in the fashion industry.
What is Fashion Merchandising?
Fashion merchandising is a dynamic field that involves managing and showcasing the latest products and trends to a buying public that is increasingly conscious of fashion. Students in this area often find work within retail operations or directly for designers and fashion labels.
Seth Howard, who teaches fashion merchandising at WKU and serves as the trip’s advisor, noted that New York Men’s Day occurs at the start of Fashion Week, making it a significant event in the fashion calendar. This will be Howard’s fourth time taking students to attend the event.
Student Roles at the Event
During the New York Men’s Day, WKU students will assist in a variety of roles. These roles include helping designers set up their presentations, checking in and guiding guests, assisting guests in navigating the venue, and distributing event programs. This hands-on experience is invaluable for students who are looking to make their mark in the fashion industry.
Connections and Opportunities
Kyle Hawkins, a junior majoring in fashion merchandising, has attended New York Men’s Day before and describes it as “one of the best experiences” of his life. He emphasized the importance of networking at the event, stating that being present among industry professionals opens up many doors for future opportunities.
“My participation in this event will heavily boost my credentials in the fashion industry,” Hawkins said, stressing that even a brief introduction can lead to invaluable relationships within the fashion world.
Aspirations in Fashion Journalism
Another student, Grace Ash, is a sophomore who aims to become a fashion journalist after graduating from WKU. She shares her passion for fashion and its influence on her identity. Ash expresses excitement about the opportunity to attend the event, stating that the entire process of fashion creation fascinates her.
“I love putting on a cute outfit, whatever the occasion is … It makes me feel good about myself,” Ash said. She added, “The construction of clothing and events like this is so interesting to me. I love learning how it’s all put together, so I’m eager to see how it’s all done at the show next week.”
Looking Ahead
The students’ participation in New York Men’s Day not only offers them a chance to gain practical experience but also to develop connections that can influence their future careers in the fashion industry. As they prepare for the event, excitement builds, and they look forward to immersing themselves in the vibrant world of fashion.
This initiative reflects the commitment of WKU to provide its students with the necessary experiences and opportunities to thrive in competitive industries. Such events help bridge the gap between education and the professional world, paving the way for successful careers for the students involved.
