Now that the shows are over, things are far from done. For the muse-in-waiting, her role has only just begun.
On show day, you must be indispensable. Guard your chosen master like a pit bull regardless of how many PRs there are on duty, and be ready to mop their fevered brow the morning after as they read the reviews. Be their shadow and at their every beck and call; be there for the good times and the bad; be a voice of calm and honesty in a world full of sequins and superlatives.
Being a muse is a role for life—not just for show days. If this is your chosen path, you have to show 365-day dedication to design and to beauty. Any other jobs or aspirations of your own should take a backseat for this divine vocation.
Follow your favorite designer’s lead, and chase any ideas they might scatter, like confetti, in your direction. But also remain your own person—sycophants only last a few seasons. Suggest books, gallery exhibitions, and escapes for inspiration. If Nicolas Ghesquière has your heart, research the Balenciaga archives. If Balmain is where your spiritual style home is, think of what will rock Christophe Decarnin’s world.
Go from markets to museums, formal functions to music festivals. Seek out people and places to introduce and delight the apple of your eye. Look to see what rivals are doing and suggest how he/she could do it better. Look in shops, magazines, and, above all, at what women want. It is your role to bring beauty to your chosen one and inspire mind, body, and soul—just like in the court of Henry VIII. Immerse yourself in creativity with as much energy as you would a love affair. WARNING: Be not jealous. A designer’s great love will only ever be their designs, but a muse for all seasons will always be there for the romance and the adventure, and will be forever fabulous.
How To Survive Fashion Week: Episode 9
Camilla’s insight on how the biggest names (Gisele, Agyness, Linda, and more) got their big break to become the iconic faces of fashion.
How To Survive Fashion Week: Episode 8
Keeping your cool backstage. What to do, who to chat up and how to get invited back next season.
