"This is where the magic happens"

Two words sum up my day……. Vogue Italia!!! Today we were blessed with the remarkable opportunity to see the inner workings of Vogue Italia. I have been a long time follower of Vogue and walking into the doors of their offices today is a moment I hope to never forget. All I kept thinking in my mind was a saying from MTV’s Cribs “this is where the magic happens” when we entered their offices. As we walked through the hallways of their office I observed Mac computers placed on simple white desks with some of the most fabulously dressed individuals working feverously behind them. However, there was one image that stuck out in my mind more than any of the others. As I peered over into one of the offices I saw a gentleman wearing a very debonair outfit with big plastic glasses and his hair slicked back. He had his iPhone in one ear and his desk phone attached to his other ear while staring and working on his Mac. But the amazing part was that he did not look stressed be rather excited and enthusiastic. For me this image summed up the corporate culture of Vogue Italia quite perfectly. Our tour guide Sara Maino (a fashion editor) was more than welcoming and provided us with important information regarding the company. One of the most memorable pieces of information she gave us is when she said that they may work 10 hours a day but they don’t mind it because they love what they do. When asked if the pressure ever gets to be too much, she answered with it is a pleasure to work there and they don’t find it stressful. One of the main things I look for on company visits is if the people working their truly love what they do and the company they work for. My goal in the future is to find a company where love what I do and where I work.

 -Franca Sozzani, Editor in Chief at Vogue Italia

             Following our company visit we were invited to attend a Vogue photo shoot at International European Design (a graduate school in Milan).  The students who were involved had to style a shoot around the theme of denim. It was thrilling to see the behind the scenes process during a photo shoot. Being able to see the photographer set up the lighting, viewing the pictures less than a minute after they were taken, and watching all of stylist working together with the common goal of getting the best possible shot. 

            After the shoot we all headed over to a Tommy Hilfiger party. Once again a big thank you to Maria Chiara Arona for inviting us to this event! I enjoyed looking at all the clothing along with the music and the atmosphere that was surrounding us.

Visual display at Tommy Hilfiger Party

            Today was a truly inspirational day for me. It proved to me that the people who work at Vogue Italia are normal people just like you and I but who have worked very hard to be where they are. This experience showed me that if I truly have a passion for something that I can make it a reality with hard work, dedication, and passion.