Just a Girl in Denver's Fashion World
How To Break Into Your City’s Fashion Scene
Breaking into a city's fashion scene might seem like an impossible dream, but I’m here to tell you it’s not only achievable—it’s something I’ve done myself over the past year in Denver. In this article, I’ll share my personal journey, from starting as a complete newcomer to now working as a fashion assistant, marketing director, and volunteer coordinator for a fashion show—all within Denver’s dynamic fashion community. I’ll also give you actionable tips on how you can do the same in your city, no matter where you are or how much experience you have. When I first stepped into Denver’s fashion world, I didn’t have a million contacts or ten years of experience under my belt. What I did have was curiosity, determination, and a willingness to get involved wherever I could.
Marketing Director - Glowin’ & Growin’ Show
Last summer, I stumbled upon an Instagram ad for the Glowin’ & Growin’ Show, a creative festival in Denver featuring a fashion showcase. Without hesitation, I sent a confident DM introducing myself and expressing my interest in helping with the show’s marketing. To my surprise, the founder responded, and soon after, we scheduled a meeting to discuss my background and enthusiasm for the project.
Sending that one message led to my initial role as Social Media Manager, and eventually, I was promoted to Marketing Director of the Glowin’ & Growin’ Show. This opportunity marked my first foray into the Denver fashion industry, where I quickly discovered just how interconnected the community is—everyone knows everyone. Tapping into that network became my ticket to breaking into the scene.
Fashion Assistant - The Denver Ginger
Through my work with Glowin’ & Growin’, I landed another incredible opportunity: assisting a Denver-based fashion designer who was presenting in Denver Fashion Week. Her styling was featured in Glowin’ & Growin’ Season 2, and after meeting her at a promotional event for the show, I was struck by her talent and couldn’t resist approaching her to express my admiration for her work. I had no idea that this conversation would eventually lead to a role as her fashion assistant.
Working alongside her has been an exhilarating whirlwind of fabric, fittings, and behind-the-scenes coordination. The experience not only taught me the importance of adaptability and learning on the fly but also gave me invaluable insight into the immense effort that goes into a fashion show from a designer’s perspective. She’s become a fabulous mentor, and my time with her has deepened my understanding of both fashion and the dedication it requires.
Volunteer Coordinator - Paper Fashion Show
I truly believe that once you start putting yourself out there, the universe begins to align opportunities in your favor. That’s how I found myself stepping into the role of Volunteer Coordinator for the Paper Fashion Show. It wasn’t something I actively sought out, but through the connections I made and the reputation I built from previous experiences, this opportunity practically landed in my lap. And thank goodness it did.
As Volunteer Coordinator, I quickly realized that leading a team was about more than just delegating tasks—it was about creating a cohesive, motivated group capable of delivering under pressure. I learned the delicate balance of managing different personalities, keeping morale high, and problem-solving on the fly to ensure that everything ran like clockwork, even when unexpected challenges popped up. This experience deepened my confidence in leading teams and coordinating high-stakes projects—skills that have been invaluable as I continue to grow in the fashion industry.
These experiences taught me a crucial lesson: you don’t need prior experience to get started in fashion. You just need the willingness to learn, network, and say “yes” to new opportunities—even if they push you out of your comfort zone. Here’s what I’ve learned & how you can get started…
Make the First Move
Don’t wait for opportunities to find you—take the initiative and create them yourself. Reach out to people you admire, even if it feels intimidating, because one message or conversation can lead to unexpected opportunities. Make a habit of showing up where the action is, whether it’s at local fashion shows, industry events, or even the right boutiques. Being in these spaces puts you in front of the people you want to work with and increases your chances of making valuable connections that can propel your career forward.
Leverage Every Connection
The fashion industry is all about connections, and once you start making them, you’ll see how intertwined everything is. Build genuine relationships by showing interest in others’ work, and be proactive in offering your skills to help them out. Stay in touch with your network by following up and maintaining communication. Leverage your existing connections to meet new people and always be present at industry events. The more you engage with the community, the more opportunities will come your way. Remember, the key to a strong network is reciprocity and genuine interest.
Embrace The Unexpected
Don’t shy away from opportunities just because they weren’t part of your original plan. Embracing unexpected roles can lead to personal growth and open doors you never anticipated. These experiences often teach you new skills, introduce you to different aspects of the industry, and expand your presence in the fashion community. By stepping out of your comfort zone, you not only diversify your expertise but also increase your value within the industry. Stay open-minded, and you might discover a passion or talent you didn’t know you had.
Keep Showing Up
Persistence is crucial in the fashion industry. Success doesn’t happen overnight, so it’s important to keep showing up and staying active within the community. By consistently engaging with events, projects, and people, you gradually build a reputation as someone reliable and dedicated. This steady presence not only helps you grow your network but also positions you as a go-to person for opportunities. Over time, your perseverance will pay off as more doors open, leading to new roles and collaborations that further your career. Keep pushing forward, and the results will follow.
Making your mark in the fashion world is about creating opportunities, not waiting for them to come to you. My experience in Denver’s fashion industry has shown that success comes from bold moves, seizing chances, and embracing every unexpected turn. When you take the initiative, doors begin to open, connections blossom, and opportunities you never imagined become reality. Keep putting yourself out there, stay curious, and let your passion lead the way. The fashion industry is a vibrant, ever-changing landscape, and it’s full of possibilities for those who are willing to dive in. Your dream career isn’t just possible—it’s waiting for you to claim it. You got this.
XO,
𝒇𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆