“V” is for Volunteer

Why you should volunteer for Toronto Fashion Week - and what to bring!

Tips for a successful - and less stressful - Fashion Week

If you hope to make it in the fashion industry, you should consider volunteering for special events, like Toronto Fashion Week. Clocking volunteer hours is a great way to gain experience and elevate your resume. Also, paid gigs are scarce, especially for a current student or fresh graduate. So offering free labor may be your best option to getting your foot through the door. Volunteering for fashion shows is also a great trial run for anyone who’s considering heading down the production route. It’s never a terrible idea to make sure you truly are cut out for a fast-paced career such as this. (You’d be shocked how few, if any, souls return for some of the most important fashion events because they found it...a little challenging.) Many industry magnates attend events like this, and meeting them will help you establish important connections you can tuck up your sleeve for future employment. And best of all? YOU GET TO WATCH FREE FASHION SHOWS!

If you’re heading to the track (runway track, that is) you’ll need some riding gear. Consider wearing something with a few deep pockets, as they are your best friends while running around. If you don't have any, or you’re pocket-less outfit was too gorgeous to swap out (we’ve all been there), a small cross-body or fanny pack works too, but a bag may get in your way. Limit your luggage because volunteer lounge areas aren't always secure. The less you have, the easier it is to keep all your things with you. And with that, here are the top five things you should always bring to Fashion Week:

1. Event pass (duh). When you work your first shift, you’ll be given an event pass. Do not lose this. It is your key to gaining access to all those exclusive V.I.P. areas.

2. Phone and charger (double duh). If you didn’t post it on Instagram, did it really happen? Of course, don’t let the Gram distract you from what you came there to do. Be productive! (But also - do it for the Gram, fam!)

3. Debit or credit card (in case the pizza disappears before you get a slice). While this may thwart your plan to avoid those fab finds at the pop-up shop, you may need an impromptu snack. Plus, volunteers are like vultures. By the time news reaches you that the pizza has arrived, it will have already left the building!

4. Energy bar, or another compact snack. If you’re one of the smart ones who likes saving money, you could also bring your own snacks. I suggest protein or granola bars as they are flat and easy to slip into your pockets.

5. A winning attitude. Fashion Week can be stressful, especially for all of the event planners, designers, models...basically everybody in attendance! So learn to grin and bear it, and don’t take any yelling that may come to heart.