Friends Through Fashion (attn Zealot)

[PyroBlaze]

Sunrise smiled to herself as she watched yet another mare strut down the catwalk in a great-looking outfit. Really, she liked coming to these fashion shows. It helped her stay in touch with the fashion world at large and also gave her a better idea of what was popular for her more generic designs.

Well, generic as in they were meant for pretty much anyone to wear. Those weren't her favorite designs to make, but that's what she had to do for her job. At least she got a chance to make her favorite designs, the ones where she designed it specifically for the pony that was to wear it.

In fact, she was currently wearing the new dress she had made for herself, showing off her tattoo while accentuating her features as a whole. The dress was subtly fiery, as if it were caught ablaze by still flames. If she so wished, she could wreath herself in flames, a benefit of the process she had taken with her dresses, allowing her to use her fire magic on it with no ill effects on the dress. Really, it created quite the effect, though she rarely used this ability.

Still, her attention was currently on the models, her eyes darting over the outfits, analyzing the fashion on display before her.

[Zealot]

The arrival of Lady Rarity was marked by the usual polite requests for assistance as the white unicorn navigated the crowd. "Pardon me dear, excuse me. Thank you," she said as one by one, stallions and mares shuffle out of her way as she edges forward to her pre-arranged seat. Unfortunate as it was that Rarity seemed to be turning up late when she had been personally invited by the designer, she was not. No, Rarity had been at the show for a while assisting the lead designer with some last minute advice. It just so happened that she lost track of time and had to suffer the embarrassment of appearing to be late. 

 

It was no matter though, she knew she had helped and that was that. "Excuse me, thank you. Pardon me," she said with a smile as she made her way through the gathered crowd. Rarity was wearing an elegant blue dress for the occasion with a gold trim. The dress, she had made herself and hugged her form with a nice tight fit. One would find it elegant, slimming, and well made. The fashionista had not wasted an ounce of the time she had spent on the dress, and perhaps she even looked a little better than the models on the stage. Not that she would compare herself to them of course. Still, at least she looked presentable, even if it seemed like she was late and forgetful. 

 

Finally, the pristine unicorn arrived at her designated seat and sat down. Finally, she'd caught a break and could simply enjoy the show instead of helping her friends. Still, for all of the ten seconds she'd spent looking at the models she could tell it was going to be a good show. She smiled as she saw the dazzling display before her. Indeed, her friend had done good work. Only time would tell if it would pay off. 

 

Rarity spared a glance towards the mare sitting next to her, wearing a fiery dress and sporting a fine tattoo. It seemed as if Rarity had been given a spot next to an equally well dressed mare. In fact, the stitching and fabric was sublime. Curious as to why she'd not seen such a dress before she decided to ask about it, giving the mare a kindly smile. After all, the designer who had constructed such a lovely pattern deserved the credit. Perhaps the mare was a designer like herself, or simply a follower of fashion. She did not know. "Darling. I apologize, but I couldn't help but admire the pattern on your dress. It's exquisite, and I confess that I don't think I've seen it before. You must tell me whom is responsible for your attire, I do not think I have seen the pattern before." For now, her eyes were on the mare beside her and not the ongoing show. After all, it didn't hurt to talk to the ponies one was sitting next to.

[PyroBlaze]

Sunrise smiled to herself as she continued to watch the models walk up and down the catwalk. These were some nice designs she was looking at. Looks like the industry was still going strong, and she had to admire the creativity of this designer.

Soon enough, she saw a pony out of the corner of her eye taking the seat beside her. Casting a glance to the newcomer lead her to look again, and look over the mare's outfit. She smiled at the mare's words, listening as she continued examining the dress on the white unicorn.

"Why thank you! It's always nice to hear somepony compliment my work." She said, giving a warm smile at the mare. "And might I say, your dress looks wonderful as well, especially on you." She added, returning the compliment her new neighbor had provided.

[Zealot]

Well that was a surprise. Most ponies Rarity met at these events were simple followers of fashion, or magazine journalists. There were few designers at events like these, though in truth they were there of course. After all, what pony who spent their life making dresses didn't like a good fashion show. Still, Rarity had meant her praise. The pattern was lovely and very well made. In fact, she would go so far as to say it was perfect for the pony. Clearly she was talking to a pony who knew a thing or two about style, a promising designer if there ever was one. Still, it was troubling Rarity that she had not heard of this pony. She didn't recognize her from the fashion world, so perhaps she had yet to really make her mark.

 

"Your ensemble is your own?" she asked, seeming slightly surprised, though happily so. "Then indeed, I am glad I could pay you the compliment. It is truly a marvel. You should be proud." Rarity smiled as the pony complimented her dress back and nodded in appreciation. "Why thank you dear. It is one from my personal wardrobe, and I think it fits me quite well. Though I may add an extra sparkle if I get the opportunity. I believe it is missing a little something," she smiled again and turned back to the models. They were putting on quite the show. The fashion was very creative and Rarity had to give the designer her credit. The poor dear had been very nervous about the show, and Rarity had happily offered her guidance and support. That was why she appeared to be late.

 

Nonetheless, she found her attention wandering back to her new friend. "Oh but forgive me, I have not introduced myself. I am Rarity, fashion designer." She smiled again, offering a hoof for the stranger to shake. "Again I beg pardon, but I do not believe I have seen your work. Are you a designer as well perhaps?" After all, she may just be a hobbyist. Still, she would definitely like to know who was responsible for the magnificent dress.

[PyroBlaze]

"Yes, it is indeed." Sunrise replied, smiling at the other mare as she continued speaking. She gave a nod at the words about how she should be proud. Then came the talk of the mare's own dress, as she spoke about how she thought it needed something more.

 

"Hmm... Well, I think your dress is wonderful as it is, but you could be right about it needing a bit more." She said, humming to herself for a second or so. As the mare introduced herself, Sunrise smiled at her, shaking the offered hoof. Before she got a chance to respond with her own name, Rarity continued with more questions.

 

"Yes, I am a designer. My name is Sunrise Skies, it is a pleasure to meet you." She said with a warm smile. "I believe you have yet to seen my work because my more widespread works have been just general designs, ones that I designed for the company I work for. My more personal designs, such as the one I'm wearing, are my favorite to design, however." She added, still smiling.  

 

"It's always nice to meet new ponies, especially ones that share my desire for fashion." She finished.

[Zealot]

Rarity smiled as the pony confirmed her suspicions that she did design the dress, then later shuffling under the returned praise. Indeed, her dress was very stunning and she had made it especially for herself. She'd hoped to impress somepony at least, then they might be more inclined to buy her dresses in the future. After all, fashion was something that everypony should have access to. Everypony should have the opportunity to look as pretty as her, and this pony was certainly living up to that ideal. But still, yes, it could use something more. Perhaps some sort of sparkling diamond sequins, or even an accessory. That would go quite the way to improving it. Perhaps then she would have to work on the look. Still, she felt it worked as it is and smiled in agreement with her neighbor.

 

That was when they were introduced, the other pony telling her that her name was Sunrise Skies. No, Rarity hadn't heard of her but gladly shook her hoof. If she worked for a company then they would likely brand anything she made as their own. That struck Rarity as a bit of a shame, where was the appreciation for artistic talent? Where was the maker's stamp of achievement? Still, at least she could express herself with her personal designs. After all, Rarity felt it was nice to be allowed creative freedom. When she worked on her own dresses, she always felt the best part was allowing that pony to shine in their own special way, and Rarity loved that she was able to help them do that. "I see, well I may have seen it yet dear, even if your name was not at the forefront." 

 

She again gave Sunrise a smile, she did like this pony and felt the two of them could get along. Rarity put her hoof on her chest and chuckled, "I too love designing something personal. Letting a pony shine is what fashion is all about after all. I fear not many here understand that," she says a little forlornly, placing her hoof on the seat once more. "In fact, I believe most of my orders are personalized outfits nowadays. It is a very rewarding process. But fret not, your time will come soon dear. Especially if you can work to such high standard."

[PyroBlaze]

Sunrise returned Rarity's smile as the mare spoke. She really did like this mare, perhaps they could be friends. That would be nice, having a friend in the same business as her.

"Why thank you!" She replied with a warm smile at Rarity's words about her time coming. "I agree, making personal dresses is very rewarding, that is why they are my favorite designs to produce. And while the designs for the company aren't as much fun, they do tend to pay the bills." She finished, giving a small chuckle. "I suppose that's what I get for living the high life in Manehatten."

She did enjoy her lifestyle, but it did have its drawbacks, such as the cost that required she work for an actual fashion company. Oh well, it could be worse. At least she was able to do what she loved all the time.

[Zealot]

Well, they were getting along famously. Rarity nodded in agreement as Sunrise told her that working for a company could pay the bills. Rarity herself had done similar work when she first started off. Freelancing for companies was a little tiresome, but one did what one had to do to get by. Still, if the customer liked what she made then it was worth it. She'd spent her time to help somepony, even if they'd told her exactly what she needed to do. Still, she found this Sunrise to be quite agreeable. Perhaps they could be friends. It would be nice to know another pony in the world of fashion, somepony like her. Of course, her other friends were wonderful. She didn't really know another designer though. Getting together to swap ideas and work collaboratively with a friend would be brilliant, and perhaps that pony would be Sunrise.

 

But what was that? She lived the high life in Manehatten. Rarity had always wanted to do just that when she'd been growing up in Ponyville. To live among the ponies with real class and to socialise with the very best. She smiled at the memory. Living the high life would be brilliant, but as she knew it would mean leaving behind her friends in Ponyville, and she couldn't do that for all the high brow parties in Equestria. They were too dear to her. Still, the odd trip wouldn't hurt, right? "You live in Manehatten?" she asked with another smile, a slight twinkle in her eyes. "I always wanted to live there, it must be nice to live up a little. My place is in Ponyville though, with my friend," she said with a confident nod.

 

Rarity turned her attention back to the show and the models, smiling at a particularly elegant silver dress that had apparently been inspired by Rarity's own designs. Of course, she would do anything for her friends which was why Rarity herself had decided to help the designer. Perhaps she had gone a little too far, perhaps not. "Tell me dear, what company do you work for? Perhaps I have heard of them," she said, trying to figure out if she would have seen this pony's designs anywhere. "Don't tell me it is one of those large fashion conglomerates. Such a shame for somepony with your talent to waste away without getting a little spotlight." Now there was a thought. Rarity has quite a few high brow clients, and she had more every day. Many more than she could handle. Perhaps it was time she expanded her boutique, or even help another designer with their big break.

[PyroBlaze]

"Yes, Manehatten is a wonderful city, I enjoy living here." Sunrise responded with a warm smile before Rarity spoke of her living in Ponyville. "I have been there once. It has beautiful scenery, though it is not for me." She said, smiling a bit still. She then turned back to the show, smiling at the silver dress that she saw. Truly an elegant design. Perhaps she could be friends with Rarity. It was always nice to work with somepony who understands what she is doing, and she was quite pleasant to be with. She looked back to Rarity when she spoke though, listening to her questions.

"Well..." She paused a little, blinking as Rarity continued. "Well, it is rather big. I don't mind much, however. I still sell personalized designs on the side, and I mostly work for the company to pay for my lifestyle... Truthfully, I would like to be able to focus more on the personal dresses, though I cannot do that at this point." At that, she sighed slightly before looking back to the fashion show, though she was paying more attention to her thoughts than the outfits on display. She really did wish she could be without the company, but she would rather stay than lose her way of life... At least without some other alternative.

[Zealot]

Rarity looked over once more to listen to Sunset. Indeed, Manehatten was a wonderful city, she couldn't agree more. The dazzling streets full of life and the high class of ponies. The parties alone were worth going to, though the city itself was quite magnificent as well. Besides, what fashionable pony wouldn't want to live in a city with such a high presence in the fashion world. No doubt there were many more companies and boutiques there than Rarity could name. Indeed, Manehatten was to Rarity what Ponyville was for Sunset. Nice, but not perfect. It was that small town charm that kept Rarity in Ponyville, as well as her friends. The latter was of course the most important factor. Wherever they went, she was home.

 

Still, what was that? The company was a large one. Well, that explained that then. If it was a large fashion company then Sunset would never get the credit. A shame. Rarity believed quite strongly in celebrating talent. Still, she had her personalised designs that she sold on the side, like she had mentioned before. She did what was needed to pay the bills, and that was quite understandable. Still, if she wanted to focus on her personal dresses then Rarity felt she should help.

 

"Well dear," she began with a sweet smile. "I myself run an independent boutique, and it is not as impoverishing as it sounds. One simply needs to build up a clientèle with steady orders and for clients to be attracted, all one needs is to be able to get one's name out there. A reputation," she said enthusiastically, smiling as she presented her idea. "I myself have gathered a number of important clients and I can pay for a good standard of living, enough to indulge in the high life from time to time.

 

Rarity then reached into her small saddle bag, fumbling with the flap for a moment before taking out a small case of business cards. "Perhaps I might help, if you were interested of course," she enthused. "I would very much like to see some of your designs after all." With that Rarity passed Sunset her business card, putting the case back in her saddle bag. It was an elegant card which detailed Rarity's business, 'Carousel Boutique' and gave her address in Ponyville.

[PyroBlaze]

Sunrise sighed slightly as she watched the show. She wasn't sure what to do... She wanted to get out of the company job so she could focus on what she loved doing, but she couldn't without sacrificing some things that she was really not prepared to sacrifice at the moment. When Rarity began speaking again, she looked over quizzically, not sure where she was going with what she said.

She ran an independent boutique, good for her. She was happy that the mare was successful with her business, but it didn't seem to have much bearing on the conversation. Sunrise blinked a bit as she was handed a business card, which she took and examined before looking back at Rarity.

"My apologies for not understanding, but are you saying you might want to hire me for your boutique?" Sunrise asked, a little puzzled still. She appreciated that Rarity was trying to help, or at least she thought that was what the white unicorn was doing, but she wasn't sure how going into what was essentially a smaller company was going to help at all.

[Zealot]

Indeed, that was a question. Did Rarity want to hire Sunset for her boutique? Perhaps, perhaps not. Either way, she definitely wanted to help. She was looking for an assistant to help her finish some of her designs, but she felt that was probably a little below Sunset's ability. Perhaps she should seek to hire an intern for her Boutique. No doubt she could share her knowledge with them if she did, then she would be helping a pony learn as well as getting some help. Twilight was always talking about the joys of learning after all, perhaps she could partake with her own little endeavour. 

 

Still, she would love for Sunrise to be part of her boutique, but she felt that it wasn't what Sunrise wanted. Well, Rarity wasn't the kind of pony who would put somepony's happiness over her own gain. Not by any means. "Well, not quite," she began as she shifted in her seat, her attention fully away from the show for a moment. After all, this was no doubt a bit of a complex situation that she was trying to suggest. She didn't really want to hire Sunset, though she would if the mare wanted to be hired. No, instead she just wanted to give the mare the opportunity to showcase her work.

 

Such things were usually left to talent showcases. Perhaps Rarity could run one? Well, that was another matter. No, her idea was perhaps a bit more complex. She wanted to introduce Sunset to a high profile client or two. Rarity had plenty, and she couldn't do them all. Perhaps they could be persuaded to go for a less famous mare than her. "I would gladly hire you if you wanted to be hired," she began smoothly. "Though that was not what I had in mind. In order for one to earn a good wage as an independent designer, one must have a steady client base. I, well. Not to sound out of turn, but I have acquired a semblance of popularity among the fashion world. I am getting orders from new clients that I just simply can't complete. You however, sound like you might appreciate some of the attention. So. I wish to see some more of your dresses. If I am satisfied with your work, and I think I will be, I shall recommend you to my newer clients. That should give you some more business, enough to build you a bit of a reputation. Then, who knows? Maybe you'll get a better offer from another firm, one that will let you indulge your creative talents." Rarity smiled at this, turning back to the models. It was an idea, and the mare was only trying to help.

[PyroBlaze]

Sunrise blinked a bit in confusion as Rarity began talking again. So she wasn't offering a job? Well, the fiery mare wasn't sure she would want a job with Rarity. The mare was delightful, but she didn't want a new job if it meant having to move and leave her life behind.

When Rarity clarified what she was offering, Sunrise blinked again, not sure she had heard right. Rarity wanted to give her some customers from her own customers? Why would she do that?

"Well... If you're certain, I would appreciate the added business. After the show, we can go to see my designs, if you want to." Sunrise said, still a little confused as to why she would do this for a pony she had just met, but she wasn't going to question a gift from a mare like Rarity. "Thank you for the offer."

[Zealot]

Rarity nodded happily. Indeed, that was the plan. Give Sunrise one or two clients who were, well, they were important but they weren't Rarity's core clientèle. Just a few new clients who were high brow themselves, but not quite as high brow as her others. Not that she didn't value their business and want to help them, oh gosh no. There was a light chuckle from the white unicorn, stretching slightly in her seat, turning her attention to the models once more. After all, she really should divide her time between her two friends. The designer had put a lot of effort into the show, and Rarity had done her part. It was probably good if she was seen to be paying attention. She'd hate to have a falling out with her friend over something so trivial. 

 

Still, her thoughts did drift back to Sunrise. "If you have some designs nearby, I'd be more than happy to take a look," she commented with a sidelong glance at her. "Don't fret my dear. I am certain. In fact, I have plans to open up a Boutique in Canterlot soon. I will have one or two understudies then to help shoulder the work. Even so darling, I have too many offers and not enough time. I will be happy knowing that those ponies are getting to look their best, even if I do not have a hoof in their attire. After all, if I can't shoulder the burden to somepony else. Well, they would either have to wait a considerable amount of time, or I would have to decline the order. Time is a premium after all."

 

The white unicorn nodded affirmatively at that, shuffling in her seat. Indeed, it would help her retain some professional courtesy and it would mean that Sunrise could get some more business. Hopefully, even some recognition. Not to mention the clients would hopefully be satisfied. It was a win, win, win.

[PyroBlaze]

Sunrise listened to what her new friend had to say, nodding a bit in response. She supposed it all made sense, if Rarity did not have time to complete all the orders she was receiving. In that case, it made sense that she might wish to share the wealth with her friends. The fiery mare smiled a bit before turning back to look at the models. She had come here for the fashion show, it would be rude if she were to ignore the great designs on display.

"Oh, I brought some with me for just such an occasion." She said, smiling a bit as she continued to watch the show. This was a pleasant turn of events. Not only did she make a new friend at this wonderful fashion show, she was most likely going to get more business on the side of her job that she enjoyed the most. Truly, this had been one of the best trips she had taken in a while.

(I'm assuming they are not in Manehatten. If they are, they could just go back to her workplace or whatever.)

[Zealot]

Rarity nodded at that, well that was that. She'd get a little breathing room for her orders and Sunrise would get some interesting jobs that gave her all the credit. It was definitely a win win. It felt good to help somepony. Of course, she was helping herself as well but Rarity didn't really see it that way. She was giving Sunrise an opportunity to shine and give other ponies the joy of having a pretty dress or a dashing suit. The white unicorn had once thought of the fashion industry as glamorous, a place where she could make her mark and shine like a star. Granted, she did just that quite a lot of the time. Over a while though she'd found it hadn't really mattered. Her friends were what was important and while Rarity had dreams of her own she'd always put her friends first.

 

Still, what was that? She had some designs with her? "Wonderful," Rarity cheered with a happy chuckle. "We can head back to wherever it is you are staying and I can take a look at some of your designs," she confirmed with a nod, taking a look at the show once more. "I must say it will be quite a treat to see another's designs and talk through them with somepony. Alas, some of my friends are bereft of the finer knowledge of fashion. I rarely get to talk shop, and when I do it is simply direction-less rambling."

 

With that, Rarity turned her full attention to the show. She did need to pay a little more attention to the dresses in front of her. Her friend had gone to a lot of work after all, and while Rarity had seen some of the designs backstage she'd yet to see them in the limelight. She spent a few moments in silence, simply watching the models on the catwalk as the show started to come to a close. 

[PyroBlaze]

Sunrise gave a small giggle, directing a knowing smile over at Rarity for a few seconds before turning back to the show. She knew exactly how that was.

"Believe me, I am no stranger to that feeling. That is one good thing about my job, most of my coworkers know as much about fashion as I do. Still, it will be nice to get out from there more than I already am." She said, smiling to herself as she watched the models continue to display the dresses. It did seem to be wrapping up however.

"Well, that was certainly a wonderful show. The designs were fabulous." She said, turning her gaze back to her new friend.

[Zealot]

Rarity politely bent an ear towards her new friend and listened to the remark as she watched the show, nodding in agreement. Indeed, some of her friends hadn't the slightest interest in fashion while the others only really had a small interest. Still, she was grateful for them. If she did start talking nonsense to them then at least they had the good manners to politely listen in silence until it was over. She didn't mind that, though was careful not to bore them with it. "I can imagine," Rarity responded.

 

Still, the show ended as the last dresses made their way past the curtain. Rarity stood to stamp her hooves in approval as the lead designer walked out onto the catwalk to take her bow. There was a short speech as she cited her inspiration for her new line and thanked a number of friends and family for their support, Rarity being among one of the names states. The unicorn simply smiled, passing it off. After all, she'd not done a lot to warrant such praise. The unicorn had helped out just before, that was that though. Still, she was grateful for a little kindness in response to her efforts. 

 

Once the designer had left the show was officially over, Rarity turning to her new friend. "Yes, a wonderful show. Always a treat to see such talent, and exquisite use of pre Luna-rift patterns. I must say, historical dresses are definitely making a comeback. Mind you, royalty is all the rage at the moment, so I suppose that is quite understandable." Rarity turned, starting to meander away and lead Sunset out of the hall. "Come come, let us be off. I'm sure my friend will be fine from her on out, perhaps we can slip away."

[PyroBlaze]

Sunrise stood and showed her approval as well once the show ended and the designer stepped out onto the catwalk. The mare certainly had skill in designing, she looked forward to seeing more of her work. The fiery mare stayed to listen to the speech, remaining at her seat until the show had officially ended and the designer left the stage.

 

"Yes, she did a wonderful job with these designs, I look forward to seeing more of her work in the future." She said as she followed Rarity out of the hall and towards the exit. "I suppose she wouldn't mind you slipping away, we do have business to talk about." The fiery mare smiled to herself as they left the hall, happy she had decided to attend this show. Not only had she been able to see such wonderful dresses on display, she made another friend in the fashion industry and she could possibly have more business coming her way on the side of her job she enjoyed the most.

[Zealot]

Rarity smiled at that, heading away slowly and minding her dress on the steps. Indeed, that was true, business needed to be discussed. Rarity's friend would be too caught up in talking to her potential clients anyway. There were a few business ponies and high society socialites in the audience that the white unicorn knew would be vying for a dress from this designer. Why get in the way of all that? Besides, Rarity could always nip back later and talk to her then. Best to let her enjoy her moment for now.

 

"Quite," Rarity responded with a nod, looking back to see if Sunrise was following her. Indeed, she couldn't wait to get back to the hotel and see what the mare had for her. This was proving to be quite a nice way to spend the day so far. This trip was proving to be a great idea. She'd helped a friend, and now she was meeting another friend. Definitely time well spent. 

 

"I am sure you'll be seeing more of her after this show. It was an impressive line. Still, let's head back. I can't wait to see what you have," Rarity said again with a smile.