How to Go to Fashion Week on the Internet
By Ramona Helin
Be a former fashion ‘editrix’ fresh out of rehab, looking to make a comeback after a humiliating Page Six piece. Think you hate social media sites until you have your old intern teach you how to Twitter. Learn that if you type #NYFW into the search field, you can find out real time news. She helps you follow other industry people, and teaches you how to “@”.
On your own, you figure out how to steal gossip and Twitpics from lower-level bloggers and pretend they’re yours. Constantly reply to old colleagues at parties from your bed, saying “Where are you? I can’t find you!” Compliment outfits from elements you see in street style photos the next day: “I’m dying over your new PS1, so chic” etc. Complain about being tired, and anything mundane, always followed by #NYFW. Feel happy to not be stomping in the snow in your Lanvin stilettos. Live for live streaming shows.
Start a tumblr and reblog inspiration posts by talented teenagers all day long. Reference Diana Vreeland’s legendary Harper’s Bazaar column in your copy. Begin with “Why don’t you…wear a skort?” Realize you’ve made all these new Internet friends, outside the New York industry. Realize you have more creatively in common with them.
Get noticed for your active online presence. Harper’s Bazaar contacts you, saying they’re looking for a new web person to handle their tumblr and social media. They love your Vreeland references, they think you can bring the brand up to modern engagement, and would you want to be in charge? Take it.