Who does what, from the first fitting to the designer’s bow.
By Shreya S · Last reviewed 1 November 2026
How is a fashion show made?
- The collection: the design studio develops the clothes over several months.
- Casting: a casting director chooses models through “go-sees” with agencies.
- Styling: a stylist works with the designer to build each look and the running order.
- The set: a production company builds the venue, lighting and seating.
- Music: a show soundtrack is created or chosen to set the mood.
- Hair and make-up: lead artists design the beauty look and lead large backstage teams.
- Fittings: each model is fitted in their look, often the day before.
- The show: usually 10 to 20 minutes, ending with the finale, when models walk together and the designer takes a bow.
Who are the key people behind a show?
Beyond the designer: the casting director, stylist, set designer, producer, music director, lead hair stylist and make-up artist, and the PR team, who manage invitations and seating. Some, such as the producer Alexandre de Betak or the make-up artist Pat McGrath, are famous in their own right.
What happens backstage?
Controlled chaos. Hours before, models go through hair and make-up; dressers are assigned to each model for fast changes; photographers shoot backstage; and the designer makes last-minute changes to looks.
Read on Ayerhs: The Business of Fashion Week: What Goes On Behind the Scenes · Models and casting · Who sits in the front row