What really goes on behind the scenes? Industry experts share their knowledge

Former model Leila Yavari is fashion director and buyer at Stylebop.com, one of the largest online designer retailers, which stocks a wide array of labels from hip new brands like Ostwald Helgason right up to the heavy-hitters like Valentino and Chloé. She is currently bracing herself for the shows in September. 

You get street-style-snapped a lot? What sort of outfits work best on camera?
There are so many photographers outside the tents that I think show-goers get photographed no matter what they're wearing. What distinguishes women like Giovanna Battaglia and Miroslava Duma, who have made a lasting impression on street-style photographers and fashion enthusiasts alike, is that they are beautiful, confident women with a distinct sense of style.

If you were only allowed to wear one designer or label for the rest of your life, which one would you choose?
I would definitely choose Céline. I'm a huge Phoebe Philo fan because I love how she crafts effortlessly stylish clothing for working women that are both wearable but artful.

What’s your favourite trend for autumn/winter 2013?
I am planning to embrace the texture trend this fall. With subtle accents and tactile elements, designers highlighted the sense of touch through personal yet incredibly profound separates like chunky knitwear, felted zig-zag, and Sherpa-inspired shearling.

 What are you hoping to see at the spring/summer shows?
I am always interested in seeing how designers push their signature aesthetic to the next level. I hope to see new innovations in textile use and silhouettes that push preconceived notions. 

Which shows are you most looking forward to?
I love London and Paris Fashion Week. London always reveals the next wave of sartorial innovators like Mary Katrantzou and JW Anderson, while Paris offers classic femininity at shows like Valentino.
 
Your hair is so shiny. What’s your secret?
I am devoted to sulfate-free shampoos from brands like Wen.

Do you have a place that you go to get away from it all after fashion month? 
There’s always an endless amount of work after fashion month is over that it’s impossible to find time to get away. A relaxing break at an eco-luxe resort like Ahau in Tulum, Mexico would likely do the trick!

Do you still go shopping in the real world? Or do you always buy online?
I do most of my shopping online but there's nothing more fun than a day of shopping on avenue Montaigne followed by lunch at L'Avenue.