The announcement of Christchurch Spring Fashion Festival came nearing the end of NZFW in Auckland, meaning it was only two months away. A bold move from NZFW but it couldn’t have come at a better time, finally putting Christchurch on the fashion map (or the South Island for that matter). 

There’s so much talent outside of Auckland, but it’s often overlooked. Of course it’s the same worldwide – London, New York… you don’t hear Norwich or Maine mentioned much. 

So to have all creatives sent to Christchurch this time around, just felt different. I allocated a full week in Christchurch, to allow me time to network, meet with friends, and of course fit in a few photoshoots. 

What I didn’t anticipate, was meeting the CEO of Glassons..

Something I felt was really lacking at NZFW was a platform to network. Just being encouraged to network feels a lot less invasive than going up to a group of people at the event. CSFF had various panel talks on over the weekend, and I decided to go to the ‘How’d you get your start’ talk. Fashion can feel like such a ‘closed doors’ industry, I thought it would be interesting to hear straight from those who are well regarded in the industry. 

It was fascinating to hear each story, but the underlying theme, was persistence. There is no secret tool or method, just continue showing up, continue meeting people, be a decent human to others, and never give up. Honestly, this panel talk was one of my favourite moments at CSFF. 

What I appreciated the most though, was Murray Bevan’s suggestion at the end of the talk – that we’re all here and free to talk to, if you wanted to introduce yourself. Suddenly it felt like there was ease within the room, and everyone started to chat amongst themselves, introducing each other and making new connections. 

This also opened the doors to being able to chat to the panel speakers, something I had absolutely no expectation or pre-planning for. Before I knew it, I was unintentionally standing next to Juliette Hogan. I didn’t want to just bombard her with questions that would only benefit me/would seem almost rude (i.e. ‘can I shoot for you?’). So like an absolute idiot, I treated her like a human and asked her how her day was, complimented her on the panel talk and asked her if she was watching any of the shows 🤦‍♀️.

I felt even more like a rabbit-in-headlights when it came to meeting the CEO of Glassons, April Ward. Feeling intense imposter syndrome, I just about managed to introduce myself, but didn’t ask anything of value. Which i’m of course annoyed at myself for, but I also know these are everyday people who are probably just as exhausted talking to everyone and want to sit down.. so I guess it’s finding a balance. 

Next time though, I will actually be a bit more prepared, and try not let the imposter syndrome take over.. 

My favourite show, was the Bonnie x Caitlin Crisp show. It brought such a positive, fun energy. Everyone on the runway was having the best time, with cameos from the likes of @lovingelliesbelly and @megurihayasaka with cute little violet who absolutely stole the show.

It was great to see the models i’d worked with over the years, either dressed to the nines to watch the show, or on the runway itself. My only hope for the future is for more networking opportunities. Not necessarily to reach panel speakers, but to connect fashion designers to stylists, photographers to make up artists, modelling agencies to hair stylists and so on. 

I think it’s always important to remember that we do this because we love it, not for looks or financial gain (although getting paid does help pay the bills). The best way to do that? Meet other creatives & network, network, network. 

What did you think of CSFF? Or will you check it out next year?