I just got back from Paris for Fashion Week!
Paris is not an easy city! Trust me, I lived there for almost two years and know how complex and difficult the city of lights can be. I heard grumblings from some of my fellow black influencers and new media owners about going to Paris Fashion Week. One young lady allegedly vowed never to attend again. Why? Paris is not like other cities for Fashion Week. One French publicist put it bluntly, “In Paris it’s not about hard work or meritocracy, it’s about who you know.” So while we might get front row at a show in New York based off of our following and influence, we’re lucky if we get a response to an invitation request in Paris. C’est la Vie.
I’ve noticed that in Paris, the bulk of invites tend to go towards traditional media, celebrities, stylists, and big spenders.
This season, out of dozens of shows, I went to a handful, along with a couple presentations. We get it: some black influencers are not getting the same love as we do on our home turf (do we ever?). It can be ego and soul crushing. But you should still go.
Why? While it’s easy to justify the reasons not to go (the expense, the non welcoming and confusing Parisian based PR companies), like anything in fashion, if networking is necessary, go network! You can’t make connections or meet people from the comfort of your home. And boycotting won’t work. Paris is one of the shining jewels in the global crown of luxury, and their fashion train is not stopping anytime soon (LVMH, Hermes, Chanel anyone?).
Another easy reason why you should go: CONTENT. Because of my slick photos by the Eiffel Tower, slow motion videos through Place Vendome, and storytelling from my days schlepping it in Paris to now, I gained thousands of organic followers and doubled my impressions. Paris is a gorgeous backdrop for content any time of year. Use PFW as an excuse to be creative and meet new photographers, makeup artists, and hairstylists.
Lastly, you just never know who you may meet while there.
True story. A friend invited me to the bday dinner of a socialite. I went, and ended up sitting next to the head of PR for a well known fashion house. Turns out he was a hoot and could dance his butt off! We exchanged numbers and who knows? Maybe I’ll be in the building for their show next season. But if the French are about connections and seeing/meeting people, then GO. See! Meet!
Randomly lucky and fortuitous things tend to occur when you shoulder your misgivings, put a pin in your ego, and just GO. You won’t regret it.
If you love fashion, Paris is a must. And I might just go to Milan also…
There’s always next season. See you guys then!
Love & Light,
*Leave a comment if you’d be down to attend an FBD dinner in Paris next season. 25 people max. If so, I’ll get to WERK!
**Thank you to Kilian Paris, Rick Owens, Jitrois, Tony Ward, Givenchy, Loewe, and Akris for graciously inviting me to your shows, parties, resees, and presentations!
***Makeup by Sublimee by Andree, an amazing Parisian makeup artist!
****To have me wear your brand, email Book@clairesulmers.com
