Eight WKU fashion merchandising students will volunteer at New York Men’s Day during New York Fashion Week, Sept. 5-7. This biannual event features “emerging brands in contemporary menswear and genderless collections” and aims to nurture upcoming talent in the fashion industry, according to NYMD’s official website.

Fashion merchandising can be described as a “dynamic field” for skilled managers to showcase their latest products and trends to an “increasingly fashion-conscious buying public.” Some fashion merchandisers work within retail operations, and others work directly for designers and fashion labels, according to a Southern New Hampshire University article. 

Seth Howard, fashion merchandising instructor and the trip’s advisor, said that NYMD occurs at the beginning of Fashion Week. This is Howard’s fourth time taking students to this event. Howard explained that students will participate in various roles during the event, including helping designers set up presentations, checking in and guiding guests, assisting guests in navigating the space and distributing programs.

This is the second year Kyle Hawkins, junior fashion merchandising major, will attend NYMD. He described it as “one of the best experiences” of his life. Hawkins explained how this event is filled with individuals who are connected to the fashion industry, which allows students to make valuable connections with professionals in the field.

“My participation in this event will heavily boost my credentials in the fashion industry,” Hawkins said. “Just a brief introduction could spark a life-changing relationship that connects you to the world of fashion.”

Grace Ash, sophomore, intends to become a fashion journalist after graduating from WKU. Ash said fashion considerably influenced her personal identity because she connected with it. Ash explained that she loves wearing fashion, learning about fashion, and hoped to one day live in New York as a Vogue writer.

“I love putting on a cute outfit, whatever the occasion is … It makes me feel good about myself,” Ash said. “The construction of clothing and events like this is so interesting to me. I love learning how it’s all put together, so I’m eager to see how it’s all done at the show next week.”

News Reporter Abigail Vickers can be reached at [email protected].