Michelle Reuss and Kaleigh Kramer, seniors in apparel, merchandising and design, were among several ISU students who had the opportunity to participate in New York Fashion Week this month. Students volunteered with BCBG Max Azria, a women’s apparel company.

Kramer first heard of this opportunity during a field study trip in New York City. Adviser Ann Thye also presented this volunteer option to students. Thye keeps in close contact with BCBG’s human resource department.

The application process is far from intimidating. BCBG asks that interested students send their résumé and availability to their human resource director, Christina Chiaro. Additionally, Reuss chose to include a paragraph explaining why she would be an outstanding asset to the BCBG team.

Kramer was able to participate for the entire week, while Reuss spent two days in New York.

“If you do plan on volunteering I would recommend going for the full week, that way you are given more responsibilities and have a better chance to be noticed by the BCBG employees,” Kramer said.

Each student’s experience varied. Reuss assisted with model callbacks and setting up photo shoots prior to the fashion show. The day of the show, Reuss was assigned to ensure the makeup and hair was done correctly for the models. She also organized the models with their specific outfits. Reuss was one of 10 ‘dressers’ who was assigned to a model and expected to get them dressed and ready to be on stage in time.

“There was a lot I enjoyed working with BCBG, like seeing all of the beautiful clothes and knowing I was part of creating a great show,“ Reuss said. “But my favorite part of being there was being in the office and observing how everyone works together. This is because I will be starting my first job soon and it is important for me to work for a company I will be happy at.”

Because of the length of time Kramer was there, her experience differed. While there, she worked closely with Kimiya Ayubi, special events manager. Together they organized the elite client event and BCBG fashion week after party.

“I also learned a ton from working with Kimiya in the short time that I was there. She took the time to explain the little things to me, which is something that not all people do,” Kramer said.

The elite client event was a private show held in their flagship store. BCBG’s exclusive after party was held in one of New York City’s high-end hotels, The Standard. Bloggers, celebrities and elite clients attended the event.

Kramer also had the opportunity to experience chief creative director of BCBG Max Azria Group, Lubov Azria, present her resort and spring lines. Azria also discussed the inspiration behind each garment.

“My favorite part was seeing all the events come together,” Kramer said. “It’s very rewarding to be able to see people enjoying and appreciating all the hard work we put into these events.”

Reuss encouraged all who might be interested in an experience like this one to check out BCBG in the future. 

”I think [BCBG] is a great opportunity for anyone who is serious about making it [to] New York or L.A. and if you want to work with BCBG this is a great in,” Reuss said.