Behind the Scenes: Volunteering at Milan Fashion Week

One of my professors, with whom I was fortunate to have a class both last semester and this semester, shared the contact information for three agencies that are typically involved in fashion show production. I sent out emails to all of these agencies and received responses from Miss Maltese both semesters. Miss Maltese is an agency run by Eliseé Nzuzi, the founder, CEO, and Creative Director, as well as an alumna of NABA. Through Eliseé and her incredible organization, I was able to work on three events last semester.

I emailed a LOT of sources and agencies for both Fashion Weeks, and I suggest that if you can find contacts, begin reaching out. While I didn’t receive responses from everyone, I will always advocate for putting yourself out there. Before you go emailing people, though, I do have some advice on the structure of your applications and messages and what to include.

First, make sure your resume is fully up to date with relevant information. Keep it clean and concise, and make sure that it looks professional. My resume, although in my opinion is somewhat boring to look at, has gotten me this far. I also included my fashion portfolio. Since I’m a student in the beginning stages of my career, take me as proof that you don’t need to have graduated to get hands-on experience.

Next, the way you format your email is also crucial. It can be tough to figure out what will catch the attention of people, especially when their inboxes are likely filled with countless others like you. I’d advise you to be more creative than I and try to come up with an attention-grabbing subject line. At the end of the day, “Fashion Week Inquiry – BRAND NAME HERE” did garner me some responses.

For the actual body of the email, the advice I was given and will pass on to you is to keep it short and sweet! After my greeting, I typically lead with, “My name is Mickey Wilson. I was directed to your contact to inquire about my request.” While I didn’t have much experience to mention, the next part of my email was about my former internships. So, if you have worked on any events that are somewhat adjacent to what they would need you to do, definitely mention it.

After experience, I followed with the fact that I am currently residing in Milan and would be able to work for Fashion Week, adding, “If assistance isn’t required at this time, I would be excited to attend the show as a guest. I am also available for any shadowing opportunities that may become available.”

I had the best time volunteering during Milan Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2024! I was lucky enough to participate in different types of events, each one offering a unique experience and perspective.

At the Tokyo James show, I got to dive into the backstage hustle. I helped dress the models and made those last-minute adjustments, jumping in wherever I was needed. It was a whirlwind, but so exciting!

The Black Carpet Award show was a completely different vibe. I was stationed at the entrance, checking in guests, which gave me the chance to meet influencers and designers from around the globe. It was so cool to chat with so many creative minds in one place!

At the Mastewal Alemu Exhibition, I noticed a few similarities with the Tokyo James show (let’s just say I steamed a lot of garments at both events!). However, this one felt a bit more personal as I had the chance to work side-by-side with the designer to help carry out her vision. I was involved in setting up and taking down the exhibit, dressing the mannequins, and even guiding guests as they explored the presentation.

Recently, I was able to work at a model casting call for two amazing designers, Edis Pala and Astarte, who have exhibitions showcasing this week. It was incredible interacting with over a hundred models eager to make their mark during Milan Fashion Week.

Plus, I’m so excited to be part of the Showroom exhibitions with Edis Pala on February 27 and Astarte on February 28. Being involved in preparing for such events is thrilling, and I can’t wait to see how everything comes together and the designers’ visions come to life!

Being in my second year of university, it’s incredible to me that I’ve already been able to gain firsthand experience with such incredible parts of the fashion world. As I go forward and expand my studies, I can’t wait to see what else awaits me.

Buona fortuna!