Fashion Forward Week Returns to NYC With a Powerful Message: Fashion Is for Everyone
Photography: Joshua Sim
New York City once again became a hub for innovation, inclusivity, and storytelling as Fashion Forward Week returned for its highly anticipated second edition. Founded by Jordana Guimaraes and Christopher Hunt, the four-day experience took place February 2–6 at 2 Park Avenue, Midtown’s iconic Art Deco landmark reimagined as a modern creative and event space.
More than a fashion week, Fashion Forward Week is a movement designed to elevate emerging and scale-up brands in an industry where access and visibility are often hard-earned. By intentionally pairing next-generation designers with established names, the platform creates space for collaboration, mentorship, and shared influence—proving that fashion thrives when opportunity is expanded.
Photography: Joshua Sim
A Headlining Moment: Nicole Miller Through the Decades
One of the most defining moments of the week was an archival runway presentation by legendary designer Nicole Miller. The show traced decades of her career through iconic looks, offering both a celebration of fashion history and a glimpse into what’s next. In partnership with Perfect Corp, guests were also able to virtually try on select archive pieces using augmented reality, seamlessly blending heritage design with cutting-edge technology.
Emerging Brands With Purpose
Throughout the week, Fashion Forward Week spotlighted a diverse lineup of designers driven by sustainability, craftsmanship, and personal storytelling, including:
SDN Brooklyn, redefining waste as wearable art through upcycling
RELEVE, founded by Emily Burnett, integrating social technology into couture
Harry Berry Jewelry, known for energy-infused designs and signature angel wings
Intuition Kicks, Italian-made sneakers rooted in manifestation and mindfulness
Rebel Roots, merging Western and Indian influences for a global audience
La Bottega di Layla, blending Italian and Egyptian heritage through art-driven design
Richard Alexander Cooke, a Brooklyn-based sustainable brand where no two pieces are alike
Leatheracci, delivering elevated leather with edge and craftsmanship
Bhavna Kanakia and Elizabeth Carson, representing a creative collective based in Tampa, Florida
Photography: Miguel Pichardo
Art, Innovation, and Impact
Art and philanthropy were central to the experience, with live painting performances by Jason Naylor and Mira (Miami). Their works were auctioned to benefit The Mental Health Coalition, founded by Kenneth Cole, reinforcing the event’s commitment to purpose beyond fashion.
Innovation was further highlighted through PATCHWORK, a supply chain technology platform showcasing how transparency and efficiency are shaping the future of the industry.
Moving Fashion Forward
Fashion Forward Week continues to redefine what a fashion week can be—one rooted in collaboration, accessibility, and meaningful storytelling. By placing emerging designers alongside iconic brands, Guimaraes and Hunt are reshaping the industry’s landscape and proving that fashion moves further when everyone is invited to the table.
As the final moments unfolded at 2 Park Avenue, one thing was clear: Fashion Forward Week isn’t just advancing fashion—it’s opening the doors wider than ever before.
Photography: Miguel Pichardo
