NY FASHION WEEK: Pre-college program

Immerse yourself in the fashion industry during Fashion Week before college—gain real-world experience, build your portfolio, and network with industry insiders.

Pre-College Only

New York
Fashion Week September 2025

WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?

We are thrilled to present an unparalleled opportunity for your aspiring fashionista! Our Pre-College Fashion Program is designed to ignite creativity, foster industry connections, and provide hands-on experiences that will set your child on the path to success in the dynamic world of fashion.

Join our four-day Pre-College New York Fashion Program for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience New York Fashion Week from behind the scenes.

This program offers exclusive backstage access, hands-on workshops, and an online master class that prepares students for their backstage roles during Fashion Week. Perfect for fashion students, aspiring designers, or anyone with a passion for fashion, this program offers practical skills, insider knowledge, and portfolio-building opportunities to help launch your future in fashion.

  • TBA

  • 3 Nights, 4 Days itinerary (Manhattan, Chelsea)

    Arrive: Starts 12 pm 
    Depart: Ends 4 pm Sunday

  •  $1950 for quad room/ Single BEDS
    (Payments are made directly to Travel Designs, the official travel agency of Fashion For Futures.)

Included Activities:
Midtown Manhattan Hotel,
Starbucks Breakfast card,
Full-day supervised access and training backstage Runway Fashion Week Show (with food & drink during the day included),
Mood Designer Fabrics: Project Runway competition workshop,
Sewing Workshop Upcycling,
Group welcome dinner,
Broadway Show Ticket,
3 industry professional visits (past visits have included Sam Edelman, Hearst Magazine, Larriucci, Ferragamo),
Learn about Makeup and styling workshop.

What is not included?
Flights
Travel Protection
Meals and tours not otherwise stated in the itinerary.
Spending money, Ubers, taxis, or personal expenses.

Program Details &
Benefits

Your child will have the extraordinary chance to be part of the excitement during Fashion Week, rubbing shoulders with renowned designers, attending exclusive runway shows, and gaining insights into the pulse of the fashion industry.

Fashion Week Immersion

Your child's safety is our top priority. Our program is carefully curated with experienced chaperones and supervision to ensure a secure and supportive environment. You can have peace of mind knowing that your child is in good hands while exploring their passion for fashion.

Expert Chaperones and Supervision

Connections are crucial in the fashion industry. Our program facilitates networking with industry insiders, providing your child with the chance to build contacts that could lead to internships, mentorships, and future career opportunities.

Networking Opportunities

Learn from Industry Experts

We bring the industry to the students! Your child will have the incredible opportunity to learn from fashion experts, including designers, stylists, and professionals who have made significant strides in the fashion world. This firsthand knowledge will shape their understanding of the industry's intricacies.

Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Access and Training

Ever wondered what happens backstage at a fashion show? Your child will get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, learning about event production, model fittings, and the intricate details that make Fashion Week a globally celebrated spectacle.

Portfolio Building with FIT Professor

Stand out in the competitive world of fashion school admissions! Our program includes personalized guidance from Fashion for Futures CEO and guide Ilyssa Wexler, a professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) to help your child build a standout portfolio. This expert assistance increases their chances of securing admission to top fashion schools.

Cultural and Global Perspective

Our program is not just about fashion; it's an immersive cultural experience. By attending Fashion Week in NYC city, your child will be exposed to diverse cultures, influences, and perspectives that will enrich their understanding of the global fashion landscape.

Hands-On Workshops and Projects

Practical experience is at the core of our program. Through hands-on workshops and real projects, your child will hone their design skills, gain a deeper understanding of the fashion process, and create a portfolio that showcases their unique talent and vision.

Sample
Itinerary

    • Industry visit to a top NYC fashion brand.

    • Vintage styling workshop.

    • Welcome dinner.

    • Visits to three leading fashion brands, including a high-end fashion house, sustainable fashion studio, and luxury accessories brand.

    • Watch the runway as VIP guests

    • Group reflection and Pizza/game night

    • Full-day backstage immersion at New York Fashion Week.

    • Hands-on experience with show production and designer prep.

    • Food included all day

    • Sewing workshop at a NYC sewing school.

    • Final portfolio-building session with expert feedback.

*Please be aware that Fashion Week events may require minor adjustments to the final program. However, Fashion for Futures guarantees an unforgettable experience with exclusive access to highly sought-after fashion events and opportunities. Get ready to fully immerse yourself in the fashion world as you learn, network, and create unforgettable memories throughout this extraordinary journey with us.

Please note: we do NOT accept American Express.

For assistance with flights and customization for your trip, please contact our official travel agency, TRAVEL DESIGNS. +1 443-244-7124.

Our on-site Team

Ilyssa Wexler

CEO & Educator

Educator and leader, blending business expertise with fashion knowledge. With over 20 years of entrepreneurial success and a background in Wall Street and international business, she aims to connect education with real-world fashion experiences. A professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in Florence and former top Wall Street sales leader, Ilyssa combines creativity with business acumen. She has also taught at Columbia University's pre-college program, helping young talents build the skills and confidence to succeed.

Lawrence Cooper

Show Producer, Runway 7

With over six seasons at New York Fashion Week, Lawrence Cooper is a seasoned show producer at Runway 7 Productions. He has worked with 200+ fashion brands, bringing their visions to life with flawless execution. Lawrence also mentors Fashion for Futures students, guiding them in fashion production and helping them grow in the industry. Known for his passion and expertise, he consistently pushes the boundaries of runway production.

Ready to take the runway?

Ready to take the runway?

Sign up for the Pre-College New York Fashion Program and get exclusive backstage access to Fashion Week along with specialized master class training!

Upon submitting your application, you will be seamlessly redirected to a scheduling page to arrange your interview with llyssa Wexler, the founder of Fashion for Futures.

Still have questions? Contact us at info@fashionforfutures.com
or +1 917-791-1023. We're here to help!

Testimonials

  • The backstage access and workshops gave me experiences no one else in my class had. It’s something colleges notice, and it helped me get into my dream school!

    Emma K.
    Pre-College Program Participant

  • Fashion For Futures created a safe environment where I could personally connect with the fashion industry and create everlasting bonds with my peers. The program was the most amazing experience that solidified my love for fashion and gifted me so many opportunities, where I met so many talented amazing friends on the way! Working alongside Ilyssa was such a pleasure!

    Michaela Rose Aellis.
    New York Fashion Week Program Alumna

  • The portfolio I developed during the Pre-College Program was the centerpiece of my fashion school application. The hands-on workshops and guidance gave me the confidence and edge I needed to stand out.

    Sophia L.
    Pre-College Program Participant
    Admitted to Parsons School of Design

FAQs for Parents

FAQs for Parents

Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
Find everything you need to know in our FAQ section.

Questions?

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