21. THE TENTS

the film documents the fashion industry.  in the years prior to '94, designers showed their lines at random nyc locations, meaning their guests had to drive uptown, downtown and all around town.  apparently there were many issues with elevators and unsafe locations as well.  in an effort to consolidate the shows into a more organized system, the cfd (council for fashion design) chose to erect tents in bryant park.  all the designers showed in this location; spring and fall.  we see behind the scenes; hear interviews with many designers, editors and stylists.  i learned the impact of these shows on all those involved.  by 2010, the tents were no longer serving the need, since SO many more people were attending the events.  this year saw that last fashion week in "the tents" of bryant park; fashion week is currently held in lincoln center.  i think one of my most enjoyable juxtapositions in this film is carolina herrera and betsy johnson.  the footage flips back and forth between the two designers, who are on the opposite ends of the fashion spectrum.  since i've long been a fan of project runway, i have learned some of the ins and outs from that show, so those parts weren't totally new to me.  also because of that show, i have a basic knowledge of many of the fashion players, so it was fun to hear their views and often see footage of them in early years.  all in all, fashion week is here to stay, bigger every year.  does it effect me and my life in any possible way?......no, it doesn't.