5 dos and don'ts for attending fashion week like a pro

KARACHI: Let us all admit that we do a little happy dance as soon as we receive our fashion week invites, especially us fashion-obsessed beings. I know everyone loves the glitz, glamour and gorgeousness of a fashion show... that's all well and good, but how many of you know there's a certain set of unspoken rules expected of fashion week attendees? Judging from my personal experience, not many.

While some learn the protocol by observation, others don't learn at all. That's where I come in. So, let's stop with the happy dance and talk etiquette.

1. Be on time

PHOTO: ROSEWOOD

I don't know about you, but I can't stand people who don't value time. It's okay to be 'fashionably late' (excuse the pun) but arriving an hour after the show begins is never okay - emphasis on the word NEVER. All you have to do is plan your day ahead and keep a check on the clock. It not only sounds simple, it is simple!

2. Sit where you are seated 

PHOTO: ROSEWOOD

Why would one possibly want to sit on their assigned seat? It's crazy of people to expect that, right? Wrong! You may not believe it, but seating arrangements are made for a reason. So, please do everyone a favour and not take someone else's seat as it messes with the planning and timing, causing unnecessary distractions and delays.

Designer Deepak Perwani told me how he once had to publicly call out the person who refused to get up from his reserved seat. Well, that's embarrassing... save yourself the humiliation and just sit where you are seated.

Also, what is it with people battling it out for the front seats? Calm down. You won't suddenly become cool if you're in the front row, honey. And here's a little secret, the view from the third row is much better.

3. Poker face

PHOTO: AMAZON

While the above-mentioned rules are somewhat common sense, I feel like this one in particular is not known by many. I know you are at the event to check out the clothes and yes, you may not be able to contain your excitement... but you must. Don't give yourself away and show exactly how you feel about the collections, especially if you dislike them.

4. Round of applause

PHOTO: ROSEWOOD

It's one thing keeping a straight face, it's another not appreciating the designer's work. I know cellphones have taken over the world but I'm sure you can put them down for a sec to acknowledge the designer's collection, one they've spent months creating. Give them the round of applause they deserve.

5. Be respectful

PHOTO: ROSEWOOD

Focus strictly on the fashion. This is not the time to sit by your 'besties' and chat over relationship problems, neither is it the place for vigorous hand-waving to your 'friends' sitting across from you. While you may be at the event just for the fun of it, others are actually there to contribute to the business of fashion.

Their view is quite sacred so don't block it - wear the least obstructive clothing you have, hold cellphones close, stay away from the ramp and do not stand during the show, especially in front on the photographers' pit.

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