Introduction
Our project is a volunteer initiative aimed at supporting two key fashion events in St. Petersburg: St. Petersburg Fashion Week (SPBFW) and the AUXI show. We strove to contribute to the organization of professional fashion shows, assist designers and organizers, and gain valuable practical experience in backstage operations and audience interaction.
Set Goals
Navigation and Support:
Ensured seamless movement for everyone present—guests, models, and designers—directing those who needed assistance.Backstage Management:
Monitored order backstage, including garment preparation (steaming), checking for model attendance, and verifying the completeness of looks.Team Assistance:
Supported designers and stylists by promptly providing necessary accessories and clothing elements.Model Handling:
Served as dressers, assisting models with changing, preparing for appearances, and garment care afterward.Organization:
Coordinated rehearsals and guest seating.Rapid Response:
Quickly resolved any unforeseen issues, from minor losses to delays.Essentially, our main goal is to be part of the team and do whatever is necessary for a successful presentation—from highly technical tasks to quick decisions during high-pressure moments.
Workflow: How the Days Went at SPBFW (October 16–19)
Day 1 — Introduction and Immersion
The first day focused on establishing a workflow rhythm and familiarizing ourselves with the organizational details. We received the necessary passes and uniform—t-shirts—met other students, and studied the layout of key areas: dressing rooms, the press center, as well as entrances for guests and participants. We were assigned initial, straightforward tasks, mostly related to navigating visitors to the press conference and providing reference information. Given that there was only one show, the adaptation process proceeded smoothly.
The first show of the «VAL» fashion week
Day 2 — the first real behind-the-scenes look
Our second day kicked off early, at 9:00 AM. First, we handled the welcome reception for all SPBFW guests: models, designers, and partners. Our responsibilities included distributing wristbands, guiding attendees around the venue, and assisting with belongings.
Once preparations began, we joined the EL EGOISTO team. Our support involved:
• Dressing the models. • Preparing garments (steaming). • Monitoring the timely arrival of the models. • Fulfilling any requests from the dresser as needed.
It was then that we first experienced the frenetic pace and palpable intensity of a real fashion show.
Backstage
Excerpt from the «The Egoist» showcase
Модели после показа
Day 3 — Educational Program and Trainer Work
The day kicked off with an immersion into the world of fashion through an educational program by SPBFW. We then resumed working with dressers, this time for the FFANCY CHOICE brand. Our task covered the entire model preparation process: from makeup and hair styling to forming the final look and checking every detail. We coordinated the models before they walked the runway. After the show, we assisted the brand with unpacking the garments and photographing the looks on the models.
Educational Program
Backstage of «FENSY CHOIZ»
Excerpt from the «FENSY CHOICE» show
Day 4 — Final
This day turned out to be the easiest—just one show and minimal hassle. We focused on wayfinding: assisting guests, designers, and models in navigating the territory. At the end, we organized the seating for visitors in the hall. Although the day was simple, it helped us strengthen our ability to confidently manage the movement of people.
Backstage
AUXI Help
Day 1 — Fittings and Rehearsals
November 30th was dedicated to fittings and rehearsals. Before the brand representatives arrived, we focused on organizing the space and managing participant movements. Once the models and designers appeared, we supported the brands with clothing fittings, finalizing costume details, adjusting fits, and overseeing the progress of the runway rehearsals.
Rehearsal
Rehearsal and Fitting
