Maddie Clews - Fashion

As much as I value academic learning, I was eager to get a real taste of the fashion industry. I started drafting countless emails and cover letters, refining my CV, and constantly checking fashion-focused job sites. After months of not finding work, not hearing back from and receiving rejections from various brands, I finally got the "yes" and that made all the effort worth it.

I loved how culturally diverse the event was. Working alongside volunteers from different countries and backgrounds with varying experience levels and aspirations helped me develop strong communication and listening skills. It pushed me to be adaptable and collaborative, skills I know I'll carry into any future role in the industry, as well as inspiring me to learn French alongside my studies.

Every time I visit Paris, I fall more in love with it. I honestly can't remember where my obsession with the city began, even as a child, I was drawn to its elegance and artistic flair. Paris has always been the backdrop to my mind when imagining my future in fashion, and this experience at Fashion Week only solidified that. Everything, from the architecture to the style, the originality and the work ethic inspired and uplifted me.

As an intern, I supported the general operations of ELIE SAAB's showcase. My tasks ranged from dressing models and ensuring the stylist's vision was executed, to transporting and organising the collection. It was hands-on, fast-paced, and incredibly insightful. I got to see how all the different teams, from designers to stylists, buyers to merchandisers, come together to make a show happen. It gave me a much deeper appreciation of how a brand functions behind the scenes.

I'm originally from Nottingham, where I first studied fashion at Nottingham College. I'm now continuing my education at Nottingham Trent University. While my international fashion experiences have been some of the most impactful of my life, I feel really fortunate to have access to such a strong fashion education close to home. My love for fashion has always been deeply rooted in the history, storytelling, and cultural influence clothing can hold. That's what continues to drive me.

My internship took place from the 8th to the 16th of March. My fascination with French fashion and Parisian culture began when I was young, and it became a driving force behind my determination to secure a role at Paris Fashion Week. Honestly, I almost talked myself out of applying. I think I was scared of rejection, of stepping outside my comfort zone. But saying yes to the opportunity turned out to be one of the best decisions I've made. I loved every second of the experience and learned so much.

At ELIE SAAB, I had the chance to observe how different departments operate, but it was the design team that really captured my attention. Hearing about the creative process behind the FW25/26 collection was incredibly inspiring. It reaffirmed my own passion for design and solidified my goal of one day being part of a team that brings collections like that to life.

Whilst at Nottingham College, I enjoyed getting to build upon a wide range of fashion-related and industry relevant skills; CAD, visual communication and professional practice to name a few. This has supported my confidence levels when thinking about my future career plans and place within the industry.