Fashion Fix: Grit behind the glitz

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town starts today. Deon Redman, technical and casting director, tells us what it's like to work behind the scenes

Fashion weeks are always glamorous events. What is it like on the days leading up to the first show?

Fashion may have an inherent glamour for most, but when you see a model walking out onto the runway, it is a culmination of very considered business decisions.

How much time does it take to prepare?

Planning starts months ahead.

How do you ensure that shows happen seamlessly?

What most guests attending the shows don't see from their seats at a show is a carefully coordinated and structured backstage set-up that involves entire teams of people across various departments. From top show producers, stylists, photographers, models, their agencies, and hair and make-up partners to dressers, backstage managers, technical teams, crew and co-ordinators, our well-oiled machine really is made of excellent parts.

How many people are involved?

I did a rough estimate of the all the people involved in Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town, and it translated to about 4800 people.

What happens when something breaks, models don't show up or there aren't enough seats?

There is always going to be an element of the unexpected. Often some of the best fashion "moments" are the real, spontaneous ones. If you work with the best available people across all departments, you're equipped to deal with these situations.

How do you choose who to cast in these shows?

I think we're past a "prescribed" aesthetic. Certainly a distinct and interesting look will always inspire a designer, but designers also select models who speak not only to their brand's identity, but also to their consumer. Individuality, charisma and confidence are always attractive qualities in any model.

Do designers bring their own stylists?

Some designers do, others have in-house advice on styling. There really is no single template.

• For more information on the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town see afi.za.com

Runway hair

Where do you get inspiration for fashion show hairstyles?

We receive a brief overview and theme from the designer. Considering fashion trends, we look at colour, clothing, textures and patterns, and then create a complementary hairstyle.

Does each show have a specific hair idea?

Yes. Some designers share models and it is crucial they keep their identity. We are challenged to ensure the designer's identity comes across beautifully, despite time constraints.

How do the models change hairstyles so quickly between shows?

The stylists have to work fast and efficiently to ensure a flawless changeover.

What are the current hair trends?

Big, bold looks, texture, volume and sleek lines for movement.

How important is hair to the overall look of a show?

Immaculately styled hair completes a look, which is why there is a close relationship between catwalk trends and hair trends. It complements the garment and portrays the vision of the designer.

• Rebelo works with GHD