For quite some time, Howard has been known for his models and modeling troops. Each troop of models takes their time to mold the model and prepare it for big stages like New York Fashion Week (NYFW). Last season, two of Howard’s models had the opportunity to take part in one of the biggest fashion events of the year.
NYFW is a spontaneous and exciting time in New York City. Designers from all over the world exhibit and sell some pieces from the collections they have worked on during the year.
AJ Taylor is a civil engineering student from Miami, Florida, and with little to no experience at first, he walked his first NYFW event last fall. Taylor modeled for the Atlanta, Georgia-based brand A Fairy Tales End. He believes that Models of the Mecca prepared him for this opportunity.
“[Models of the Mecca] It gave me all the necessary tools to walk through NYFW and the attitude and confidence to shine at NYFW,” said Taylor. “I was taught runway etiquette and sound techniques to be professionally well-rounded and ready for anything.”
Taylor recalled seeing the call for the NYFW show, not thinking she had enough experience, she applied anyway. She remembered the feeling of receiving the invitation to walk in the show.
“When I found out I was selected, I was really ecstatic and very honored to be able to make that jump from the start,” AJ stated.
AJ Taylor isn’t the only Howard model who got a chance to walk in the festivities this year. Nyasia Ashford is a junior fashion design and psychology student from New Jersey. She had the opportunity to represent the brand Friskmegood, who was a featured designer on HBO Max’s “The Hype.”
Friskmegood is a sustainable urban fashion brand known for its unique pieces and diverse models. Ashford applied through a casting website and was delighted when she got the call from her.
“I’m pretty sure I cried tears of joy, this was my first time walking in NYFW, and it’s been one of my goals since I put on my first pair of stilettos,” Ashford enthused. “It still feels a bit surreal and dreamlike.”
Ashford is part of the ELITE modeling troop, another of four modeling troops on the Howard campus. ELITE is known for its editorial sessions and collaborations with big brands. One brand that has sponsored the troop is IVY PARK. Ashford was one of the models featured in their schoolgirl campaign. She believes that her modeling organization set her up for photo shoots.
“Howard has taught me how to function successfully in stressful environments,” Ashford said. “He has taught me to always be alert and ready for changes at any time.”
Howard is often considered to be the center of creativity and new talent. Both models were inexperienced, but they were willing to try and their attempts paid off. AJ has the perfect advice for people looking to get into the industry early.
“Get out there, learn sound techniques, and practice as much as you can before applying so you’re ready to walk anywhere, anytime,” AJ enthused. “Ask for the things you find and see what you hear, and always do your research on the company you are applying to.”
Copy edited by Chanice McClover-Lee
Source: news.google.com