Written by Brooke Finnerty
University Fashion Group (UFG) members embarked on a trip to the Big Apple for New York Fashion Week (NYFW) in February. Over the five nights spent in the city, members gained unforgettable experiences in the fashion industry, navigated the New York lifestyle, and built friendships with each other.
“Going with the UFG group brings such a joyful and exciting energy to New York that can sometimes be lost within the stressors of city life,” third year textiles and apparel design student Faith Mcnabnay said.
Volunteering with various brands including Global Fashion Collective, Monse, and Art Hearts, gave UFG a glimpse into the fashion world. In the chaotic backstage environment, they assisted with everything and anything from the beginning to end of production. Members dressed models for fittings and quick changes, facilitated organization, and assisted with hair and makeup.
“It’s incredible to see how much goes into a fashion show,” Faith McNabnay said. “The MONSE show that I worked lasted 20 minutes, but we were working for about 8 hours that day.”
UFG members described their experience at shows as a big step in their future career from hands-on experience in the professional fashion world. Fourth year radio television and film student Ethan Rodarte worked on the social media team at the Global Fashion Collective show.
“I got to take photos of the models walking down the runway and having those photos will be amazing for my portfolio as a photographer,” Ethan said.
According to NYFW, the shows provide a platform for designers around the world to showcase their collection and impact culture and the evolution of American Fashion. Second year textiles and apparel student Hannah Thai connected with designers David Tupaz, Baby The Stars Shine Bright, and Alex Yu while working alongside them.
“It was amazing to listen about their life stories and muses of their collections,” Hannah said. “As an Asian American it was heartwarming to see the representation in an industry that has come along way in inclusive diversity.”
UFG navigated the Manhattan neighborhoods and saw all the scenes New York offers. Members tried delicious dining, saw Broadway shows, and the whole group took a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
“My favorite part was getting to see everything I’ve seen online and in movies in real life,” fourth year psychology student Brooke Conner said.
UFG built friendships off core memories during the New York Fashion Week trip. Members of different majors and ages, some who were strangers before the trip, feel appreciative of the people they met with and grew closer to.
“In such a short period of time these people have become a home to me,” first year corporate communication studies and textiles and apparel student Heather Javech said. “Getting to become closer with such a passionate, talented, and truly fabulous group of individuals was so special.”
Although UFG said goodbye to the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, they carry the experiences, memorable moments, and new relationships back to Austin. In September, UFG heads back up north to New York City for another incredible season of fashion week.
“Honestly everything about this trip was amazing and I made a lot of new friends while getting to have a real experience of NYC for the first time,” Ethan said. “I instantly fell in love with the energy of the city and want to go back as soon as I can.”
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