Fashion Week MN (FWMN) is back for a week of runway shows, interactive exhibits and conversations.
New this year are pop-up shops with every event.
While some shows previously hosted a sales component, FWMN co-founder Sarah Edwards said the organization is committed to offering pieces from local artists to help create sustainable business models for the more than 90 designers whose work is featured in the week of shows.
At the same time, the pop-ups give eventgoers a chance to shop one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories — including pieces straight off the runway following the show — from local designers and businesses in real time.
“It was a conscious effort,” Edwards said. “Part of the ethos of Fashion Week MN is to make sure we have a place for designers to sell their work. I also think it’s exciting that people can see what’s on the runway and shop it there.”
This spring’s lineup includes six runway shows — from an event featuring models 60 years old and older to a show produced by the University of Minnesota student lifestyle publication. The shows will also include discussions of topics of our times, such as ethical fashion and mental health.
“All of our producers, designers, creatives care deeply about different issues and a lot of our shows aren’t the typical ‘Just show up and just see fashion,’ ” Edwards said. “I’d say it’s about community even more than fashion. It’s really about bringing people together from all walks of life and having fashion be kind of the center point.”
Tickets and information about Fashion Week MN events can be found at fashionweekmn.com.
