Trust in the process and let your creativity flow.
New York Fashion Week is a spectacle of elegance, precision and high fashion, but behind the opulent runway moments lies a world of controlled chaos. This season, I had the privilege of working with designer Sergio Hudson and his team, witnessing firsthand the whirlwind that unfolds backstage. The energy is electric — an intoxicating mix of adrenaline, creativity and split-second problem-solving.
From last-minute fittings to the rush of models lining up just before stepping onto the runway, every second counts. The production process is a delicate balance of artistry and logistics, where even the smallest detail can make or break a show. Fashion is not just worn — it’s orchestrated. And despite the chaos, there’s an undeniable thrill in being part of it; a feeling so addictive that once you step into its realm, you never truly want to leave.
I had the incredible opportunity to interview three mentors from my internship with Hudson about the exhilaration, adrenaline, fears and overall experience of New York Fashion Week. While working there, you never know what will happen — from late deliveries to abrupt production issues, or the last-minute rush before the show. At one point, I was sprinting to catch the elevator, racing to deliver accessories just minutes before the models walked. But it’s in these chaotic moments, the trust, the adrenaline, the small wins, that the show truly comes together. For those who want to pursue fashion, production or anything involving a show, I hope you embrace the little things: the imperfections, the drive and even the fear that holds many back. NYFW taught me fear doesn’t disappear; rather, tenacity and teamwork overcome the doubts that lie within the grandeur.
What makes a production so exciting for you?
Michael Ippolito: There are a few things that make a production — whether it’s a photoshoot, a show, market appointments or behind-the-scenes moments — so exciting for me. I have always loved this industry, so getting to be a part of it is something I constantly cherish and always want to perfect. I also crave the energy that comes along with it; there is this intoxicating energy that surrounds what we do. An overall feeling of excitement and anticipation that evolves with every second and every season. Those feelings make me continually want to be in it.
Trenez Scott: What makes production exciting for me is the element of unpredictability. Since I work remotely in Atlanta while the clothes are being made in New York, I often don’t get to see them until the week of Fashion Week. At times, that adds to the thrill, but as the show approaches, the excitement shifts into high gear. Despite the challenges, the most rewarding part is seeing the final presentation come together after all the hard work.
Rhenique Cooper: What makes production exciting from my job’s perspective is seeing the clothes and vision, once just a sketch, come to life and create a story. Every detail adds to the overall result and definitely makes a difference.
What part of the process is the most rewarding?
Michael: To me, the most rewarding part is the journey leading up to the finished product. In whatever project you are working on, there are dozens of different tasks. Some seem smaller than others, but in actuality, each task is necessary and vital to keeping the production moving. So whatever aspect I get to be a part of, when that finished product comes together, it is so rewarding to know that I played a crucial role in helping that flower bloom. Seeing the result of so many people’s hard work and dedication never gets old.
Trenez: What makes the process truly rewarding is witnessing everyone in their element, striving for success. It’s inspiring to see such passion and dedication to their craft. But above all, the most fulfilling part is seeing the designer satisfied with the final production.
Rhenique: The most rewarding part is seeing the women who wear the clothes and how they style them.
There are times when production and behind-the-scenes work get really stressful. What grounds you in trusting the process and not backing out from fear?
Michael: Production and behind-the-scenes work can definitely get extremely stressful, but to pull from the first question — that’s all part of this industry. When things get hectic and seem out of control, I like to take a step back from the tasks at hand and analyze my priorities. What needs to be done right now, and what can wait a minute? What is vital to this project, and what can I give a little space to ensure I stay on track? That usually helps me realize everything is not happening at the same time and that as long as I stay organized, everything will work out. Organization and preparation are huge — they eliminate a ton of obstacles before they even present themselves. But if you back out from fear, you’ll never know if you could have succeeded.
Trenez: Behind the scenes can get incredibly stressful, but what grounds me in trusting the process — and not letting fear take over — is reflecting on past seasons’ challenges and how we overcame them. For me, the key is learning to delegate and recognizing that help is an asset. Stress often comes from trying to handle everything alone rather than leaning on the team for support.
Rhenique: What grounds me is laying out in my head what needs to be done and working through it from there. Staying calm is always needed when times get stressful.
For Richmond designers and creatives looking to host shows and productions, what advice would you give on tackling such a long process?
Michael: To start off, I know the fashion industry can feel like this big bubble that’s really hard to get into. In some ways, it is, but there are so many access points. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and go for what you want. On the more specific side of staying motivated during the production of shows or shoots, I remind myself that this is what I love — it’s supposed to be fun. It is no easy feat to get to this place, but once you do, it’s so rewarding. You don’t want to let all the hard work you put in go to waste. So I always tell myself to give it my all because I love it, and I’ve worked so hard to get into the spaces I’m in. In short, be your biggest supporter, and continually remind yourself, “You got this. You can handle it.”
Trenez: The best advice for anyone stepping into a new field or pursuing a goal is simple — just start! You don’t need all the tools, and you won’t have all the answers, but taking action will guide you toward your passion. Along the way, you’ll experience both wins and losses, but each lesson will help you find your place and grow into your purpose.
Rhenique: Don’t be afraid to reach out to people who have done projects similar to what you’d like to create. Stay organized and stick to your vision.
Aside from work alone, a strong team is crucial. What’s your favorite part about working with those around you?
Michael: The mutual respect and sense of community. I admire the people I work with for their knowledge, talent and how they’ve embraced me as part of the team. When you genuinely like and trust the people around you, and enjoy spending time with them, it makes the job 100 times easier.
Trenez: I love working with my team because each of us brings a unique perspective to the table. While we may see business and fashion differently, we share a common goal — to succeed! Too often, we try to be the sole “brain” in the room, but true progress happens when we recognize that our collective strengths contribute to the success of the business.
Rhenique: My favorite part is that the team is real and working for the love of the company and fashion.
Lastly, what are six words that sum up New York Fashion Week for you?
Michael: Fast, Fabulous, Surprising, Beautiful, Statement, Genius.
Trenez: Chaotic, Motivating, Energetic, Sexy, Evolutionary, Revolutionary.
Rhenique: Bold, Different, Hectic, Fast, Fun, Consistent.
I’d like to give my biggest thanks to Sergio Hudson’s team: Charles, Trenez, Michael, Rhenique and Sergio for giving me such great hospitality and knowledge throughout this entire process. They’ve only given me kindness and the confidence to push forward with what I want to do.
I’d also like to thank Ink Magazine and Jessica Clary for opening this opportunity to me.
Graphics by Selah Pennington