FASHION had no dealings with . Like I said , we Detroiters are hustlers , and we will find a way or make one . I remember a story she told , while showing me photos from a show she attended , saying that she saw a group of people photographing a particular person , so she joined in , not knowing she was in the presence of Anna Wintour ( editor-in-chief of Vogue ) herself . I still haven ’ t met or seen Anna in person .
Q : Three celebrities you were excited to see on the front row ? A : I don ’ t think I have an exact answer for this question . I am a fighter for the underdogs since I happen to be one , especially as a freelance publicist . A lot of the times I personally represent emerging talents . With that being said , at our shows I try to invite individuals who typically aren ’ t afforded the “ front-row privileges ,” or even get the chance to attend these coveted fashion shows . Of course , I stick to a formula and make sure their credentials are suitable enough to get them in the room . However , I pride myself on finding them a seat at the table . For example , last year , actress Indya Moore was just signing on for her first television acting role . I gave her the opportunity to be a part of the fashion experience , wear the designer clothes and sit in the front row . In just a short timeframe , she has graced the pages of Vogue and other major fashion outlets as a breakout star of Ryan Murphy ’ s FX series , “ Pose .” For me , it felt rewarding to know that simple things could make an impact , and to this day , she thanks me for allowing her the chance .
Q : What was it like to be hands-on at one of the world ’ s most coveted events ? A : I would say that it is re-invigorating to know the quality and effort that goes into such a world-renowned production is priceless - especially knowing that you played a part , regardless how minuscule or significant it was . You will forever be a part of fashion ’ s history . I can Google my clients and relive those moments for years to come .
Q : Fashion weeks have evolved tremendously in the last decade , with major designers choosing to run their own shows . What is your hope for NYFW ? A : My hope is for inclusion across the board . I would also like to see more cohesiveness in where the shows are being held . I missed the days of Bryant Park and Lincoln Center .
Q : Can you share some advice for someone trying to build a career in fashion ? A : My advice would be : Be resilient , open to criticism , study as much as you can , and know your worth . People will place a price tag on you , and if you don ’ t know how valuable you are , then you ’ ll never break through the glass ceiling .
Q : What challenges have you experienced as a minority working in fashion ? A : My personal challenges have been sub-par compared to the overshadowing challenge of the lack of black presence in fashion , overall . We ’ ve seen a flux in the cultural movement for more of a black visibility in Hollywood , and now it ’ s time for a push for an increased presence on the runway , the designers , producers , etc . Also , I would
Dane Young preparing for a show at NYFW .
love to see a day where our people celebrate our people , and decide to wear only black designers in all facets of their lives - rap about them , sing about them , post about them , salute them , and invest in our own .
Q : What do you do for fun ? A : I ’ m quiet and chilled , but what I enjoy most is alone time , when I am able to reflect and focus on the things that make me my greatest self . During this time , I ’ m the most creative , and ideas and plans are manifested . I also enjoy being with my friends , cooking and writing . My future goal is to write a script for a TV series and / or movie . Who knows what the future holds ? But until then , you will see me at New York Fashion Week .
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