One only has to experience London for a short while to realize that the English seem to have some special edge when it comes to dressing themselves. Are they born with a natural instinct or just have different expectations about what and how to wear clothes?

Given the opportunity to travel beyond the yellow brick road of Kansas to one of the fashion capitals of the world, London, in pursuit of studying fashion at American Intercontinental University and the experience to work for the London Fashion Forum, I knew I was in for a few surprises and firsts. From the moment I arrived at Heathrow airport I was instantly aware of obvious differences between American and English style. Being a student from the United States, more specifically the midwestern state of Kansas, known for “The Wizard of Oz” and its ruby red slippers, I am accustomed to people relying more on conservative, comfortable clothes. As a whole the Midwest just isn’t as trendy or dramatic when it comes to dressing themselves as what you would see on either sides of the coast, let alone London.

During my first two weeks in the UK, I was able to participate in an extraordinary event, Profile 2, put on by LFF and sponsors. The event showcased around 30 talented ladies wear and accessory designers as a trade show and ten finalists were previewed on the catwalk. For many of them this was an exceptional opportunity to be involved in. Similar to me, it was a first for some of them; they were able to take part in an actual exhibition and catwalk showcasing London fashion. In addition, the retail sponsors, House of Fraser, selected a winner, Michelle David, who will receive space at their flagship store.

My favourite part of the day was the catwalk finale, it was extraordinary to watch. The models brought the collections to life, enhancing each label’s profile. It demonstrated exactly what fashion is all about fun, quirky street-style brought to a prestigious location full of beautiful people enjoying what they do and what they wear

The entire day was full of glamour and unique style. As one of the 900 plus observers of Profile, the event seemed overall successful not only for the young talent but also for the LFF staff. The professional atmosphere created a great PR and networking environment for everyone to gain exposure and contacts.

The opportunity to be involved in the planning and production of the event was a great learning experience that I will use in my chosen career path. The LFF staff, along with sponsors, put a lot of hard work and effort into making sure the event was as successful as the first Profile.

My favourite part of the day was the catwalk finale, it was extraordinary to watch. The models brought the collections to life, enhancing each label’s profile. It demonstrated exactly what fashion is all about fun, quirky street-style brought to a prestigious location full of beautiful people enjoying what they do and what they wear.

Though my time here is limited and I am not quite ready to click my ruby-red slippers to return back to Kansas, events like Profile 2 will make my time in London a memorable and cultured experience that I can bring back to the states. As they would say in the movie, “There is no place like home,” which is true, but in this case the fashion is in London.