I am not one to pretend that I know everything about fashion or the fashion industry. I really have more opinions and critiques about it than actual knowledge of what goes into creating pieces and promotional events. That said, I do think that it is worth analyzing what gets presented to us, especially since I’ve noticed that they tend to be severely lacking. Just last week I attended the Modamix and Addition Elle fashion event at Lord & Taylor in the city and while it was great seeing pieces first hand, styled by the very person who designed them, it left much to be desired. The murmurs that I heard from where I stood assures me that I wasn’t the only one that expected a little more. With that in mind here are just three things that I’d like to see happen at these kinds of events:

Note: Please know that this is not an attack directed at Nadia Aboulhosn, Addition Elle or even Lord & Taylor,  instead I am using this event as a point of critical discussion.

1.) Size, shape and height diversity in models

Whether you’re plus size or not, everyone is well aware that the hourglass shape is truly the “acceptable” plus size/curvy body type.  In fact this is what has lead many to criticism as to how the term “curvy” is defined. This is not to say that the models at this event weren’t beautiful and that the clothes didn’t look amazing on them, but I would have liked to see the pieces on a body similar to my own so that would give me some kind of insight as to how they would potentially look on me. Now I know that someone will say that I just need to try on the clothes for myself, and granted I should before purchasing anything,  yet it should be common practice to showcase models that look like the market that you are attempting to reach!Thinking out-loud here, I would love to attend an event that recruits models straight from those attending the event. I know if I was invited to strut across the stage, I totally would! Who wouldn’t want to play model for an evening? Get your face and hair done right on the spot, put on an outfit from a new collection and walk the runway. Not only would this help to ensure that the audience is given a chance to view the advertised pieces on a body type much like their own, but it fosters the idea that the brand actually cares for their customers.

2.) Creating memorable events

Now this is going to sound a bit more snarky and ungrateful than I intend. Having gone to a couple of these fashion events, I’ve noticed that there is a lack of standards when it comes to coordinating said events. Not keeping to the start times, as well as fumbling through what is scheduled to occur is expected, however, often times these events have a clumsy end, which tends to be less, “Thanks for coming!” and more, “You can go home now.”

I’ve mentioned in a previous post that I volunteer my time for a nonprofit organization and part of what I do there is help organize events, so I know a bit about what it takes to get something big off the ground. It’s a lot of work with much planning needed to ensure that everything is set and ready to go smoothly. Obviously non-profit events are different from promotional events, yet the level of significance is there. You want those attending to leave wanting more, not feeling like they were being appeased. This can be done simply by announcing an upcoming event or even hinting at a collection that is in the works. It can even be something as simple as giving those attending a chance to win a gift card or piece from the collection. (An attendee-only discount is another welcome option.) Just give us a reason to feel that it was worth attending and not just a waste of time.

3.) A chance to provide feedback

I think it would be beneficial to have those attending actually be able to comment on what they just took part in. Open dialogue should be encouraged, not just from bloggers like myself, but from all attendees. Whether or not it is done as an online follow up survey or even on site, it would definitely help with any future endeavors. After all, hearing back from an audience ensures what steps should be taken to create a greater product that will inevitably result in greater profits as well. Its a totally win-win situation.

So what do you think? Was there anything I missed? Have you ever attended a plus size fashion event that did or did not meet your expectations?

About this series: “My Two Cents” is a personal opinion series dealing with observed industry practices as well as society’s accepted concepts on body/self love and standards of beauty. It is meant to spark discussion on issues which I have deemed in need of addressing. Any ideas for discussion are welcomed and may be made in the comments or via the contact page.
Thanks for reading!