Things to keep in mind backstage at Fashion Week.

theatelierntwrk
Dec 9, 2025
2 min read

No music, no lights, no applause. Just a quiet hum of urgency, hands adjusting hemlines, voices calling out look numbers, brushes flicking across cheeks. But make no mistake — this stage has an audience.

The PR director, the designer, the head stylist. They’re watching. Not always directly, not always with a clipboard, but always with a memory. They’re clocking who’s holding it together, who’s keeping the energy up, who understands the rhythm of backstage — and who doesn’t.

People assume it’s chaotic back there. That no one will notice if you sit down for a second. Sneak a coffee. Light a cigarette. “Everyone’s too busy,” they think. But here’s the truth: they notice. Maybe they don’t react immediately, maybe they don’t say a word, but in that moment — quietly, decisively — you’ve been labeled: the lazy one. And at fashion week, labels stick.

How to Make the Best of Backstage:

🔹 Always Stay on Your Feet: Even during downtime. It shows you’re alert, engaged, and ready to jump in.

🔹 Anticipate, Don’t Wait: Notice when someone needs help before they ask. Initiative is everything.

🔹 Speak Less, Observe More: This isn’t the time for small talk. Tune into the room’s energy and absorb everything.

🔹 Stay Off Your Phone: Unless you’re capturing behind-the-scenes with permission, keep it tucked away. It signals presence and professionalism.

🔹 Dress the Part: Comfortable, all-black, and functional. You’re part of the crew — not the show.

🔹 Keep Calm, Even When It’s Chaos: How you handle pressure is what they remember.

🔹 Follow Up: If someone noticed your work, don’t be shy to reconnect later. That’s how long-term careers start.

Backstage is its own kind of performance. One where hustle, humility, and presence speak louder than any resume. If you’re doing a good job, you won’t get applause. You’ll get something better — a thank you in the form of another gig. An invite back. A door that opens.

So the next time you’re behind the scenes, remember: the show isn’t just happening on the runway. It’s happening all around you. And someone is always watching.