This is very common and doesn’t only happen in fashion roles. It has happened to me multiple times when applying for roles in Government and private companies when they asked for a presentation. Initially I was shocked but stupidly spent hours on it only to never hear again. I’m a single mum, I don’t have time for this rubbish so started saying no when requested. My time is money and I know the people on the panel are using these ideas. It still goes on today!

Actually most of my girlfriends have gone from one relationship or marriage to another without untangling themselves from their partner/husband. None of these relationships worked. Taking the time to consciously separate and be on your own again makes total sense to me