Behind the Scenes at New York Fashion Week
As a college student passionate about fashion, stepping into the world of New York Fashion Week (NYFW) felt like a dream come true. As an intern for Pham Fashion House, I had the incredible opportunity to witness the industry's magic firsthand, where creativity, craftsmanship, and business all come together. My experience as a Producer Assistant for an NYFW show showed me the real work behind the glitz and glamour, from garment production to the runway and beyond.
Experiencing the Fashion Industry from the Inside
Before this internship, my idea of fashion was mostly shaped by what I saw on social media and in magazines. But once I stepped backstage at NYFW, I realized the amount of coordination, planning, and attention to detail required to bring a collection to life. Working as a Producer Assistant meant juggling model fittings, ensuring designers’ visions were executed perfectly, and handling last-minute chaos, like missing accessories or unexpected wardrobe malfunctions.
Pham Fashion House gave me the chance to connect with designers, stylists, and industry professionals who emphasized not only the importance of a strong brand and cutting-edge style, but also the necessity of best-in-class apparel manufacturing. Seeing the intricate work that goes into each piece, how every stitch, fabric choice, and fit affects the final look, gave me a whole new appreciation for the craftsmanship behind fashion.
The Journey from Garment Production to the Runway
One of the biggest takeaways from my internship was understanding the deep connection between garment production, apparel manufacturing, and the final presentation on the runway. Many of the pieces showcased at NYFW were produced in Vietnam, a powerhouse in the Vietnam garment industry known for its skilled artisans and commitment to quality. Before this experience, I had never thought about where the clothes on a runway were actually made, but after seeing designers work closely with manufacturers to perfect each garment, I saw how crucial this process is to the fashion industry we all know and admire. Choosing the right manufacturing and production partner is just as important as having the right designer or stylist.
As an intern, I worked closely with the Pham Fashion House team, ensuring that every garment was tailored perfectly for models and looked flawless under the lights. It was fascinating to see how the same piece that started as a fabric swatch in production transformed into a stunning statement piece on the runway. The fashion activations didn’t just stop there. After the show, these garments would be featured in lookbooks, on websites, and eventually reach consumers, tying together the full journey from production to purchase.
Lessons from NYFW: Fashion Beyond the Runway
Fashion is fast-paced, and NYFW is even faster. This experience taught me how to think on my feet, solve problems under pressure, and work as part of a dynamic team. I gained hands-on experience not just in event production but also in understanding how the garment production value chain shapes the success of a collection.
More than anything, I learned that fashion isn’t just about style. Fashion is about storytelling, collaboration, and craftsmanship. The hard work that happens behind the scenes, from manufacturers all over the world to stylists and runway producers in New York, is what makes those breathtaking moments on the runway possible.
Looking Forward
This internship solidified my passion for working in the fashion industry. Whether it’s through event production, brand strategy, or apparel manufacturing, I now see fashion as a space where creativity and logistics blend seamlessly.
NYFW gave me a front-row seat to the industry I’ve always dreamed of being a part of, and I couldn’t be more grateful for this experience. From late-night fittings to high-energy backstage moments, I’ve come to appreciate every part of this incredible world. This is just the beginning of my journey, and I can’t wait to see where fashion takes me next.
Valery Najac
Intern, Pham Fashion House
