Student
Stylist and Student Kinsey Lewis Shares Her Experience Attending NRF Convention in New York
Each year FIDM takes students to New York to attend the National Retail Federation conference—Retail’s BIG Show, the world’s largest retail conference and expo. Over three days, they network with industry leaders, learn about the current retail environment, and attend seminars by key speakers and retail executives. This year, CEOs of Target, Levi’s, and Macy’s were keynote speakers, as well as Chip and Joanna Gaines of Magnolia. Merchandising & Marketing Student Kinsey Lewis, who graduates this month, shares her experience attending this important industry event.
Tell us the value of attending the NRF show and some of the highlights of your experience there: The NRF show really helped to motivate me and jumpstart my career. It was really cool to hear the stories of some of the most successful people in the industry such as the founders of Jo Malone and Bonobos. Being in a room full of successful people who were once in our seat is really inspiring. Some of my biggest takeaways from the conference were the importance of networking and not being afraid to take risks or fail. Criticism is everywhere, but having strong resilience and creating honest relationships can take you far.
Who were some of the main people you networked with at the show? Representatives from American Express, H&M, BJ's, Nordstrom and Kohl’s.
Tell us a little about yourself: I am a passionate and creative individual who believes that fashion is art and authenticity is key. In October 2017, I moved to Los Angeles from Houston, Texas to pursue a fast-paced career as a fashion stylist. Since then, I have had the privilege to assist stylists and fashion editors on sets of on Vogue Hommes, M Le Monde, Vogue, and SAWW Magazine. I have also had the opportunity to intern for celebrity stylists, Jill Lincoln and Jordan Johnson (who is also an alumna of FIDM), and Nicole Chavez, as well as hold the position of Fashion Editor for FIDM MODE. FIDM has definitely taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance, and without it I would not be where I am today.
Why did you choose FIDM? I chose FIDM because I had always wanted to move to Los Angeles and FIDM has some of the most incredible connections and opportunities offered in the industry that are unlike any other school I visited.
What is your biggest goal right now? I want to take time to travel and experience the fashion industry abroad as I finish my Bachelor's degree.
Anything else you’d like to share? I am a big believer in taking advantage of every opportunity you can because you never know where it may lead you. Be yourself and don't be afraid to put yourself out there.
Categories: Merchandising & Marketing Student
