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NYFW’s Exclusive Roots: How Public Access Changed the Game and Why We’re Keeping It Private


Rise Fashion Events private NYFW showcase

Photo: Rise Fashion Events


New York Fashion Week (NYFW) has long been a cornerstone of the global fashion industry, a showcase where trends are born and designers make their mark. But while NYFW has always been synonymous with exclusivity, the past decade saw a dramatic shift: the once-private affair became increasingly open to the public, driven by the rise of social media and the demand for accessibility.


For many, it felt like a democratization of fashion. For us, it revealed the challenges of balancing inclusivity with the needs of emerging designers.


 

The Original Intent of NYFW


When NYFW began in 1943, it was a tightly curated event designed to serve the industry’s core players—buyers, editors, and tastemakers. These were the people who determined what trends would hit stores and dominate culture. The exclusivity wasn’t just tradition; it was functional. Designers could debut collections in an environment focused on business and creativity, not spectacle.


But fashion is nothing if not adaptive. Over the years, especially in the mid-2010s, NYFW began to loosen its gates. The rise of platforms like Instagram and TikTok created a new type of fashion consumer: one who didn’t just want to wear the clothes but wanted to experience the runways themselves. Public shows became more common, promising designers more visibility and brands a chance to go viral.



 

Our Experience With Public Events


We’ve lived this shift firsthand. Our open-to-the-public NYFW events attracted crowds of 300+ people, filling rooms with energy and enthusiasm. The vibe was electric—attendees from all walks of life, eager to immerse themselves in the spectacle. For many, it was their first time attending a fashion show, and the excitement was palpable.


But behind the scenes, it became clear that these public events weren’t always serving the designers. For emerging talent, the goal isn’t just to create a buzz; it’s to make meaningful connections with the buyers, editors, and collaborators who can elevate their careers. Public shows often lack the focus and intimacy required for these crucial interactions. Amid the selfies, live streams, and general chaos, designers’ messages sometimes got lost.


 

Why We’re Moving Back to Private Showcases


After much reflection, we’ve decided to return to NYFW’s roots with private, invitation-only events. This isn’t about shutting people out; it’s about creating the right environment for designers to thrive. A private setting allows us to curate an audience of industry professionals who are there to engage with the work—not just to watch the spectacle.


The switch also gives designers more control. Private showcases mean fewer distractions and a chance to present their collections to the people who can turn creative visions into commercial success. For emerging designers, these opportunities are critical.


Model posing on the runway in AVNAH at Rise Fashion Events


Public vs. Private: Striking the Right Balance


Public fashion shows have played a vital role in opening up an industry historically known for its exclusivity. They’ve invited a wider audience into the conversation, fostered excitement, and made fashion week a cultural phenomenon. But for those at the start of their careers, the chaos of public events can overshadow the work.


Our move to private events is about focus and intentionality. We still value inclusivity, which is why we’ll continue to share runway moments and behind-the-scenes content online. But for the live experience, we’re prioritizing spaces where designers can shine without distraction.


NYFW has evolved, but its original purpose remains relevant. Sometimes, to move forward, you have to revisit the past. By reclaiming privacy, we’re creating room for designers to do what they do best: create, innovate, and inspire.




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