Too long! Haha! No, the answer is actually that it depends…
Fashion shows typically last anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes.
The length of any fashion show depends on a couple of factors, including the number of looks a designer is showing and the extent of the pageantry and spectacle being served up.
Another contributing factor to a runway show’s length, is whether or not it starts on time. In my experience, they never do.
Why? Well, first of all, getting fashion show attendees to sit down is like herding cats. People are catching up with friends (or enemies) they haven’t seen in a while, trying to find a seat that’s better than the standing room assignment they received or just generally milling about attempting to be seen.
Also, there could be any number of logistical nightmares happening backstage. A model is late because they just had to walk in a show (or stand in a presentation) elsewhere. Something goes wrong with the video, audio or lighting. Hair and makeup hasn’t been finished.
All told, from in the door to out the door, you can bank on about 30 minutes.
Photography by Robin West
