The crazy activity backstage to pull off a successful fashion parade
ON the David Jones runway tonight, the quiet chirp of whip birds, rolling thunder and models’ confident footsteps are the only things guests will hear.
Confidential
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ON the David Jones runway tonight, the quiet chirp of whip birds, rolling thunder and models’ confident footsteps are the only things guests will hear.
But behind the scenes, the show’s stylist Kimberly Gardner admits its “organised chaos”.
“It’s fast, it’s furious but its extremely organised,” Ms Gardner said ahead of the main event.
Scores of male and female models rush to change into new looks before their next meticulously timed runway reappearance, and not every one makes the deadline.
PICTURE GALLERY: On the David Jones red carpet
With four high profile guests walking the runway this season — Victoria Lee, Jessica Gomes, Czech model Karolina Kurkova and Anwar Hadid, brother of Gigi and Bella — a large changing room has been curtained off for each, while the lesser known beauties are assigned their own clothing rack brimming with new season wares.
Lee, who earlier this year was announced as the retailer’s newest ambassador, revealed it was a novelty having some privacy.
“I feel very special,” she said, “but having this many changes it is necessary because I’m literally flinging things everywhere so it really is nice to be able to do that and not take up space of someone else. “
Ms Gardner, who has worked with David Jones for years, said the worst possible thing that could happen backstage was an ambassador or special guest not getting changed into their next outfit in time.
“But that’s not going to happen tonight!” she exclaimed.
Lee said it was tough trying to change between ensembles within such a short time frame.
“A run through is extremely beneficial,” she said. “Just knowing that (a particular outfit) is a really tight change, I should have my shoes ready and my earrings there to throw on and I know I’ll be in line in time. You want to make sure it’s seamless.”
Crates of bottled water are spread around the backstage area, while volunteers and models are given an assortment of food options, including bowls of pasta and salad, to keep their energy up between the rehearsal and main event.
Ms Gardner said despite the chaotic moments, everybody involved really enjoyed being part of the seasonal show.
“They all really want to do this show, so that’s a bonus for us,” she said.
“The energy is high and it’s very loving, and lovely. Everyone works so hard out front, back production, marketing; the whole way through everyone’s on board.”