Let me guess, you’re scrolling through Instagram, drooling over the front-row looks at Fashion Week, and thinking, How on earth do people get invited to this? And the worst part? It seems like you have to be an influencer with a million followers to even get a sniff of an invite. Let me put you on how to get invited to fashion week without being an influencer.
Well, I’m here to tell you that’s not true. You don’t need a massive online following to score a ticket to Fashion Week. I’ve done it myself (without the influencer clout), and I’m about to spill all the insider tips on how you can do it too.
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How to get invited to fashion week
Fashion week has started with Paris couture week in January. And everyone is wondering how do I get an invite without being an influencer? These tips are great options on how to get invited to fashion week just a spectator.
Fashion week is not all about the runway shows which are not free. There are free things to do attend in fashion week like pop ups’ and stalls or even brand events for their customers. But you really want to be part of the runway shows, these tips will come in handy.
Work in the Fashion Industry (Even in a Small Way!)
Fashion Week isn’t just for influencers and celebrities—it’s actually a trade event. Designers, brands, PR agencies, journalists, stylists, buyers, and photographers all play a crucial role. If you work in any part of the fashion industry, even in a minor way, you have a solid shot at getting an invite.
I mean, if you work in retail, you can reach out to brands you carry and ask about attending their shows. If you are a writer (even for a tiny blog!), pitch yourself to publications and request press credentials. Even if you are a stylist or buyer, connect with designers whose collections align with your work.
It’s all about positioning yourself as relevant to the industry, even if you’re not a big name!
Become a Freelance Fashion Writer
Okay, this is a hack that actually works. Most brands and PR agencies give Fashion Week invitations to journalists and media professionals. But here’s the secret: you don’t have to work for Vogue to get access!
I remember my early days when I used to reach out to smaller fashion websites and offered to write for them even if it was unpaid at first. Well, it helped me build some writing clips. Once I had some articles published, I applied for a press pass for Fashion Week. And guess what? I got in!
Yes, you can do it too! You can start by writing a few fashion-related pieces for online platforms like your personal blog, medium, or small fashion websites. Then, use those samples to apply for media credentials through the official Fashion Week websites.
If you love fashion, you can create your own fashion blog too. I know right. Blogging is a fun way to do what you love while getting rewarded for your effort. I talked about it in depth on how I balance blogging with my day job.
Furthermore, pitch yourself to brands and PR agencies, letting them know you’re covering the event. Boom! You’re in!
Network, Network, Network
If you want to attend Fashion Week, you need to start knowing the right people. And no, I don’t mean you have to be besties with them, but building relationships in the industry can unlock doors you never even knew existed.
To network, you should start by attending fashion-related events in your city. It is also helpful to engage with fashion PR reps, journalists, and designers on LinkedIn and Instagram (comment thoughtfully, don’t just like and ghost!).
If you have friends who work in fashion,you should also ask them if they know anyone who can help. Additionally, join fashion Facebook groups or Clubhouse chats where people discuss industry opportunities.
The more people you know, the better your chances of securing an invite!
Contact PR Agencies Directly
This might sound intimidating, but trust me, it’s totally doable. PR agencies handle guest lists for most shows, and if you can prove that your attendance adds value, they might just send you an invite.
Start by making a list of PR firms representing brands at Fashion Week (Google is your best friend here!). Find their contact emails (usually on their websites under ‘Press’ or ‘Contact’).
Then, send a short but compelling email introducing yourself, explaining why you’d love to attend, and how you’ll add value (e.g., writing a blog post, networking with industry professionals, or offering social media coverage). Make sure to follow up if you don’t hear back!
Volunteer at Fashion Week
If all else fails, volunteer! Fashion Weeks need tons of backstage hands like ushers, dressers, production assistants, and more. You won’t be sitting front row next to the celebrities, but you’ll still be there soaking up the energy and possibly rubbing elbows with industry insiders.
I recommend that you look for volunteer applications on official Fashion Week websites. You can also check out local fashion schools (they often have insider connections to backstage gigs). It would also help to reach out to event production companies that help organize Fashion Week.
Once you’re in, use it as an opportunity to network like crazy. Who knows? Next season, you might be sitting in the audience instead of dressing models backstage!
Enter Contests and Giveaways
This one might seem like a long shot, but it actually works. Many brands and media outlets give away Fashion Week tickets as part of promotions.
You can find these if you follow fashion brands and publications on Instagram (they often host giveaways!). You can also find them on newsletters from brands and PR firms. If I were you, I would also keep an eye on Twitter for last-minute opportunities.
Buy a Ticket (Yes, That’s a Thing!)
Okay, let’s talk about the least glamorous but most guaranteed option: buying a ticket. While major shows are invite-only, some brands offer paid access to their presentations or after-parties.
Eventbrite and similar platforms are popular for ticketed fashion events. You can also check smaller designers that sell standing-room tickets on their websites.
I would also recommend that you consider attending Fashion Week-adjacent events like showrooms, pop-ups, and parties where you can meet people who might get you into official shows.
You don’t need 100K followers or a blue checkmark to get invited to Fashion Week. You just need a little creativity, some strategic networking, and the confidence to put yourself out there.
I’ve done it. Others have done it. And you can too! So go send those emails, pitch those articles, and start planning your Fashion Week outfit because you’re about to score that invite!
