FBI Fashion College offers students world class on-the-job training through the pioneering FBI Workplace Training Program. The program is offered on a international scale, with opportunities at Fashion Companies in New York, London, Paris and Tokyo.
FBI arranged an International Workplace Training placement for FBI Student Katherine Owen in Paris during Haute Couture Fashion Week. An aspiring Fashion Buyer and Business owner, Katherine learnt the ropes of Luxury Fashion Public Relations working with Parisian company Public Image PR. She also worked with Chinese Haute Couture Designer Guo Pei – the visionary behind Rihanna’s infamous 2015 Met Ball gown.
What is a typical day like interning in Paris?
The day starts off with picking up a coffee and croissant on the way to the office, very French! At Public Image PR I met with European designers in their studios and helped them set up their collections in the showroom. I assisted stylists choosing the clothes and accessories they wanted to use for photo shoots. I also helped with front of house for a client’s Haute Couture Fashion Week show. Interning for Guo Pei I helped out on photo shoots all around Paris – from the Eiffel Tower, to the Arc de Triomphe and on Parisian roof tops.
How is interning overseas different from here in Australia?
The Fashion industry in Paris is much larger with a greater International population than Australia.There are a lot of people from all over the world based in Paris. In most Parisian offices at least two or three languages are being spoken to cater for the diverse population. Completing International Workplace Training has given me a foot in the door for further work in Paris. I now have contacts in many different fields of the Fashion Industry.
What was the highlight of your International Workplace Training experience?
The highlight would have to be the photo shoots all over Paris with the Guo Pei team, in particular shooting Rihanna’s yellow met ball gown on the Champs-Élysées during the middle of the night. It was so much fun being out in the city with such a high energy, talented and friendly team.
