How to Volunteer at London Fashion Week

At the Fashion Retail Academy, many of our students have had the incredible opportunity to volunteer at London Fashion Week. We highly encourage getting involved to gain behind-the-scenes insight into the fashion industry ad experience sone of the world's most iconic brand catwalks.

What is London Fashion Week?

London Fashion Week, organised by the British Fashion Council since 1984, is one of the most renowned fashion events in the world. It takes place twice a year, in February and September, with its main venue at 180 The Strand, as well as additional events hosted across London. The next London Fashion Week will take place from 20th February to 24th February 2025. There are also men's fashion weeks, taking place in January and June.

Most London Fashion Week shows are invite-only and tickets are not available to buy. The schedule is a combination of digital and physical events that showcase outstanding British fashion designers.

What Happens at London Fashion Week?

This February, London Fashion Week will be celebrating UK-based brands, focusing on nurturing emerging talent and shaping the future of the industry. Featured designers this season include newcomers like Jawara Alleybne and George Keburia, alongside established brands like Burberry, EDEM and Richard Quinn.

London Fashion Week celebrates London's global influence as a cultural and creative hub while supporting the next generation of creatives. 

How Can I Get Involved?

At the Fashion Retail Academy, we share volunteering opportunities with students through a dedicated resource. When opportunities come up, our Careers Team ensure they're forwarded to relevant groups as soon as possible.

If you'd like to find your own opportunities, here are some tips:

• Download the official London Fashion Week schedule: Identify the brands participating and search for their PR or production teams on LinkedIn. Reach out directly, as they often look for extra help and volunteers for their shows.
• Follow brands on LinkedIn and Instagram: Many brands post last-minute opportunities for interns and volunteers so keep an eye out closer to the time! 

The Benefits of Volunteering at London Fashion Week

Volunteering at London Fashion Week is a fantastic experience. While it typically lasts just one day, it offers a unique glimpse into the fashion industry behind-the-scenes, the chance to support some of the best runway shows and networking opportunities with industry professionals. It's a great addition to your CV - adding even one day experience shows your commitment to a career in fashion.

What's It Like to Volunteer at London Fashion Week?

Fashion Week volunteers play a vital role in helping events run smoothly. Roles typically include general backstage activities to ensure everything goes to plan, such as assisting as backstage dressers, where you'll be assigned to a model and helping them change into two or three looks during the show. 

Student Experience

One of our Level 3 Fashion Retail students, Resha Storm Katalia, volunteered at the last London Fashion Week. She took the initiative to research brands and agencies hosting events, contacting them directly through email or social-media. She explained her interest in the fashion industry and how she is currently studying at the Fashion Retail Academy, making sure to add any other relevant experience in where possible.

Once selected, she was added to a WhatsApp group, where all the event details were shared. The event was split over two days - the first for model fittings and rehearsals and the second for the shows. She described how fast-paced the industry was:

Resha highlighted how valuable the experience was for both networking and learning. She had the opportunity to speak with industry professionals and designers, gaining insights into their personal journeys and experiences in the fashion world. Additionally, she expanded her knowledge by learning new garment techniques and discovering the extensive preparation needed to execute a successful fashion show.

Resha also had the chance to watch parts of the shows, which she described as her favourite part of the experience.