NEW YORK PARIS MILAN
A platform advancing the future of fashion.
Rise Fashion Events was founded by designers and creative directors trained in New York’s fashion ecosystem and committed to elevating emerging talent with industry-level standards.
We produce private runway showcases in New York, Paris, and Milan, presenting designers whose work reflects clarity, intention, and cultural vision. Our mission is to protect fashion’s integrity by maintaining a global standard rooted in craft, purpose, and authenticity.
Beyond the runway, Rise serves as the flagship program of American Fashion Lab, the nonprofit organization overseeing designer development, mentorship, and long-term creative advancement. Through this structure, emerging designers receive strategic guidance, production support, and intentional development designed to prepare them for global fashion markets with confidence.
Our Purpose
We align with designers who create with intention and approach their work with discipline.
Our purpose is to provide structure, visibility, and access to a curated audience of industry observers and cultural decision-makers, while preserving an environment where emerging designers can present without distraction.
Rise is guided by innovation, editorial precision, and controlled production environments. Each invited designer enters a space where their work is respected, protected, and presented to professional industry standards.
The Visionaries Behind Rise
Lena Timmons
Executive Producer & Designer Liaison
Lena Timmons holds a BFA in Fashion Design from the International Academy of Design and Technology. She brings expertise in garment construction, creative direction, and editorial runway presentation to Rise Fashion Events. Her leadership has been recognized by Inc. Magazine for her work in elevating independent designers.
Christopher L. Jones
Executive Director, Marketing & Brand Development
Christopher L. Jones holds a BFA in Graphic Design with a minor in Marketing from the International Academy of Design and Technology. He oversees PR, brand direction, creative design, and show production for Rise Fashion Events. Christopher is also founder of Phantom X Group, a creative agency that develops visual campaigns and production services for fashion, media, and lifestyle brands.
Ebony Everette
Lead Hairstylist
Ebony leads Rise Fashion Events’ hair department, creating cohesive, runway-ready looks that complement each designer’s vision. She ensures every style aligns with the platform’s high-fashion aesthetic while elevating the overall backstage experience. Her expertise was recently cited in Allure Magazine, where she shared insights on pre-shampoo treatments for curly and textured hair
Emily Jacobs
Director of Production & Operations
Emily Jacobs applies her expertise in visual merchandising and event operations to elevate Rise Fashion Events’ internal production. She ensures each showcase runs seamlessly by coordinating designer logistics, supporting creative teams, and maintaining the efficient backstage systems that power the platform’s high-standard presentations.
As Seen By
