The second week of my fashion internship at Company magazine involved a lot of call-ins for a shoot in LA. This meant contacting a number of PRs, telling them about the looks the fashion director wanted to achieve and then enquiring to see whether they had anything suitable to send to us.
Then, the PRs sent in samples which we had to unpack, label correctly, categorise into what company they’re from and hang up ready for one of the girls from the fashion team to assess whether they were suitable or not. I also liked doing the call-ins because I got to see brand new items which haven’t hit the stores yet and preview next season’s looks which was really exciting – I’ve seen so many AW14 pieces already!
Apart from call-ins, there were still lots of returns to do. I didn’t mind doing them at all because it kept me so busy and it gave me a chance to brush up on my knowledge of designers, high-street brands and PR companies.
As it was the week running up to the Easter break, the office had a great atmosphere because everyone was looking forward to their bank holiday plans. The office was also sent some lovely Easter-themed gifts which kept us all going – from hot cross buns to Creme Eggs to cake pops. Working at a magazine would be so difficult if you’re watching the calories as they get inundated with foodie treats everyday!
On the Wednesday, there was an amazing beauty sale which only happens a couple of times a year. There were huge crates full of beauty products which were split into make-up, haircare, skincare, tanning and nail categories. The idea was that you had a rummage through everything, paid bargain prices (I’m talking £1 for the latest MAC lipstick) and the money went to charity. I managed to get ALL this for £19. Wow!
The Claire’s PR team also sent in a big box of goodies to the fashion team. Much to our delight, the fashion interns which allowed to choose accessories out of it for themselves. I chose these two lovely statement necklaces amongst a few other bits including a floral head piece which has been featured in Miss Vogue and a pair of retro frame sunglasses. I haven’t shopped in Claire’s since I was a little girl so I was pleasantly surprised at how grown-up the necklaces were.
I also got to style some rings for the Company magazine website which was fun. Here’s one of the looks using different styles and sizes of rings. Obviously I can’t show all of looks as it would ruin Company’s piece. But it was a good way to spend an hour – I even got to paint my nails especially for the task! How many workplaces give you permission to paint your nails on the job?! I could get used to this!
All in all, it was another great week at Company. Working in London was such a brilliant experience – I didn’t want it to end!