How long is the average catwalk

Across the world people are familiar with the image of tall, slender models, dressed in a designer's latest creations, strutting down a long runway, the audience staring upward with flash bulbs popping all around. The model pauses at the end, turns and walks back as the next comes out. What most people aren't familiar with is the construction of the stage these models walk on, without which there would be no show.

The fact of fashion shows is that there are no specific dimensions required or even average among fashion shows. As with decor, lighting, music and models the runway is most often designed to what most fits the look of the clothes and atmosphere or the show.

Fashion shows are also often designed around the size of the space and the capacity for the crowd, adjusting length and width of the runway around the space available.

One rule of thumb in designing a fashion runway is that the length is generally two-thirds the length of the room. However, length can range greatly due to a number of factors including the type of clothes being show, as some may be easier to take long walks in than other or may require a longer look to fully appreciate, and the amount of models involved, as shows with fewer models may want shorter runways to limit the amount of walking the models may do.

Koizumi featured only one model, and dressers helped her change her bold looks in front of the audience. The basic options in backdrops are drapes or flat panels: One in the center and one on each side. With the centered drape or panel in front of the flanking two, models can enter from either the left or the right of center. On a 6-foot or 8-foot wide runway, take advantage of the symmetry by having two models enter from either side and walk together.

Slightly larger shows might use large screens in front of the flanking panels—inch screens or whopping foot by 9-foot projector screens—to show up-close footage. Position your cameras and screens for best visibility.

With 3D event diagramming software , you can triple-check sight lines throughout the event space from your office and share the evolving design with your client. At the Fall New York Fashion Week, that was Rodarte , whose show featured only photographs in front of an artful backdrop and floral elements. These are those fashion-industry influencers we mentioned above, as well as celebrities, fashion editors, and family and friends of the designer. Start with all the ways that the hospitality industry usually treats people right: For example, look for ways to personalize as you meet their physical needs.

And make the goodie bags, well, good. Then, give them insider access. Consider holding the VIP reception a couple of days before the event. The designers can mingle or can set up trunk shows; a model or two might show off the clothes. You might also take inspiration from New York Fashion Week.

Just before the show, of course, your hair and makeup pros will have their hands very, very full. But if you schedule a reception before the show begins, select VIPs could receive professional attention before that. After the show, you might hold a reception… or you might hold a fantastic reception.

Get some ideas for holding the ultimate event after-party. For more fashion show inspiration, learn how to design an unforgettable event concept. This year was all about bringing the runway out of the box and onto the street in some cases. Behind the scenes at Burberry, the biggest show in London Fashion Week. Share on twitter opens new window Share on facebook opens new window Share on linkedin opens new window Share on whatsapp opens new window. Grace Cook.

Reuse this content opens in new window Comments Jump to comments section. Promoted Content. Close drawer menu Financial Times International Edition. Search the FT Search. World Show more World.