Fashion weeks around the globe are among the most talked-about events in the fashion calendar, and for good reason — they are where designers debut their upcoming collections and where modelling careers can truly take flight. For models, stylists, and industry insiders alike, knowing the key fashion week terms helps you understand both what’s happening on the runway and what goes on behind the scenes.

Behind every show — whether in New York, Paris, London, or Milan — lie countless hours of preparation, from designing the clothes to casting the perfect models to fit each look. A model agency often plays a central role in organizing castings and fittings, helping connect designers with the right talent months in advance.

Fashion weeks aren’t just about breathtaking dresses and striking accessories — they come with their own vocabulary. Below, we break down the terms industry insiders use daily so you can speak the fashion language with confidence.

See Now, Buy Now

Traditionally, collections shown at fashion week are previewed for buyers and editors months before they hit stores. But with the “see now, buy now” trend, some brands have begun making items available for purchase immediately after they walk the runway. This shift started as a reaction to the fast-paced demands of modern fashion and the changing landscape of retail.

Front Row

The front row at a runway show is reserved for VIPs — including celebrities, influential editors, and industry leaders — whose reactions often make headlines. For many models, stepping into the limelight beside such guests can be an unforgettable highlight of fashion week.

Show Notes

Show notes are the printed or digital guides provided at shows that offer insight into the collection’s inspiration, materials, and creative concept. Editors, buyers, and even models often refer to them to better understand the vision behind each designer’s work.

Line-Up

Just before the show begins, all models and their looks are arranged in the line-up backstage. A line-up helps the creative and styling teams ensure that every outfit flows seamlessly on the runway. For a model agency coordinating several talents, mastering the line-up is a crucial part of show logistics.

Opening Look

The opening look of a runway show is often the most symbolic piece of the collection — the outfit that encapsulates the season’s theme. For the model wearing it, opening a show can be a major milestone in their modelling journey.

Closing Look

Just as important as the opening piece, the closing look wraps up the show. Traditionally the most elaborate or dramatic outfit, it leaves a lasting impression on audiences and media alike — and requires models who can embody the finale with poise.

Re-See

After the runway spectacle concludes, select editors and buyers may attend a re-see, a closer viewing of the collection. This is especially useful for fashion editors writing reviews or buyers deciding what pieces to bring into stores.