
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.
This two-day experience offers backstage access, industry meet-ups, hands-on workshops, and a portfolio-building session to help students prepare for college and business school applications.
Pre-College Only
New York
Fashion Week September 2025
Your Gateway to the Fashion and Business Industries Before College
Step into the world of high fashion, join us in New York City for a once-in-a-lifetime two-days experience, guided by industry experts and tailored to give you real-world insights and invaluable hands-on experience in the fashion industry.
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 two-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.
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Saturday, September 13th & Sunday, September 14th, 2025
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No Hotel Stay Included – Parents are responsible for drop-off and pick-up or may arrange a carpool.
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$875 per student
Please note: This fee does not include transportation to and around NYC.
Included:
Portfolio Course – Learn how to document and showcase experiences for college applications.
30-Minute Evaluation & Critique (via Zoom) – Personalized feedback session after the program.
Exclusive Backstage Access – Behind-the-scenes experience with a major fashion brand.
Chaperones – Supervision provided throughout the program.
Backstage Food – Meals provided while working backstage.
NYC Sewing School Activity – Hands-on workshop to develop technical skills.
Visual Merchandising & Vintage Workshop – Learn key styling and branding techniques.
Light Lunch with Guest Speaker from Teen Vogue – Insight into fashion media and career pathways.
What is not Included?
Transportation – Students/parents are responsible for all Ubers, taxis, metro fares, and other city travel.
Hotels & Accommodation – No overnight stay included.
Additional Expenses – Any extras or meals not explicitly listed above.




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
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8:30 AM – Arrival & Orientation
Location: OXFORD School, Chelsea (Near FIT)Welcome session & introduction to the Fashion for Futures NYC Experience.
Portfolio-building workshop led by industry professionals.
Insights into backstage roles & responsibilities for the day.
11:00 AM – Runway 7 Backstage Experience at Sony Hall
Location: Sony Hall, Times SquareHands-on Experience: Assist emerging brands with:
Dressing & styling models, Garment steaming & preparation, PR & social media coordination, Tech setup & show organization and Networking: Interact with designers, models, and fashion insiders.
7:00 PM – Attend a Runway Show
Location: Sony HallEnjoy the final show of the day, seeing the backstage work come to life on the runway.
Discuss learnings from the day with peers & mentors.
9:00 PM – Pickup & End of Day
Location: Sony HallWrap-up discussion on backstage experience & key takeaways.
Transport provided back to central location.
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9:00 AM – NYC Sewing School Sustainability Workshop
Location: NYC Sewing School, BrooklynHands-on project: Learn about sustainable fashion techniques.
Work with vintage materials to repurpose and upcycle designs.
12:30 PM – Group Lunch & Guest Speaker
Location: BrooklynSpecial talk from Teen Vogue Guest Speaker on fashion journalism & sustainability.
Q&A session & industry insights.
2:00 PM – Vintage Merchandising Workshop
Location: NYC Sewing School, BrooklynExplore how vintage fashion plays a role in sustainable retail.
Learn the essentials of curating, pricing, and merchandising vintage clothing.
4:30 PM – Reflection & Goodbyes
Location: NYC Sewing SchoolGroup discussion on experiences & career applications.
Certificates of completion & networking opportunities.
5:00 PM – Departure
Location: BrooklynOfficial end of the program.
Students depart for their next destination.
*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.
FAQs for Parents
FAQs for Parents
Notes & Key Information:
All meals & drinks provided throughout both days.
Comfortable, professional attire required for backstage & workshops.
Be prepared for a fast-paced, immersive experience in NYC’s fashion industry.
Chaperones will be present at all times throughout the program.
Teamwork is emphasized through structured group activities.
Certificates will be awarded upon completion of the program.
Looking forward to an unforgettable Fashion for Futures NYC Experience!
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Fashion for Futures is designed to provide real-world experience in the fashion industry, allowing students to work backstage at a live fashion show, build their portfolio, and gain insights into sustainable fashion and merchandising. The goal is to expose students to industry professionals and hands-on opportunities that will enhance their future careers in fashion.
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Yes!
Safety is our top priority. Students will be in supervised environments at all times, and chaperones will accompany them throughout the experience. Security measures are in place at all venues, including Sony Hall and the NYC Sewing School. -
Absolutely!
This program isn’t just for students pursuing a fashion career—it is a unique hands-on learning experience that builds valuable life skills such as teamwork, organization, time management, and problem-solving. Colleges and employers look for applicants who have real-world experience, leadership skills, and the ability to adapt to fast-paced environments. The Fashion for Futures program helps students develop these essential skills while working in a professional setting with industry professionals. It is an excellent resume and college application booster, demonstrating initiative, creativity, and practical experience in a dynamic field. -
Yes! Business schools value applicants with real-world experience, leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities. This program provides students with firsthand experience in event management, marketing, public relations, brand development, and logistics—all of which are essential business skills. Working behind the scenes at a live event like Fashion Week demonstrates a student’s ability to manage high-pressure environments, work collaboratively, and execute professional tasks—all key attributes that business schools and future employers look for.
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The portfolio created during this program serves as a visual resume showcasing a student’s hands-on experience in a professional setting. It can include:
Project documentation (backstage work, merchandising, marketing contributions).
Personal reflections & insights on teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.
Photos & testimonials from industry professionals.
Business schools value applicants who can demonstrate initiative, creativity, and hands-on experience. Including a portfolio with college applications shows admissions officers that your child is proactive, adaptable, and able to apply theoretical concepts in a real-world setting. It strengthens applications by showcasing practical accomplishments beyond standard academic achievements.
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Emergency contacts will be collected before the program begins. Staff members will be available at all times to assist students, and venues have designated first aid stations. Parents will be contacted immediately if needed.
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Students are expected to arrive at the OXFORD School in Chelsea at 8:30 AM on September 13. Transportation between venues will be provided during the program, and students will be picked up at 9:00 PM from Sony Hall on the first day and 5:00 PM from NYC Sewing School on the second day.
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Dress Code: Black attire for backstage work (comfortable shoes recommended).
Materials: A notebook, phone/camera for capturing experiences (if permitted), and any personal essentials.
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Complete the registration form. Spaces are limited, so early registration is recommended.
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The program fee covers all workshops, events, meals, and materials. Additional personal expenses, such as transportation to and from the program, are not included.
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This experience is designed for students, but parents are welcome to attend the final reflection session on September 14 at 4:30 PM.
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.
Juan Lino
Hairstylist and Cutting Educator
Juan Lino is a highly skilled Hairstylist and Barber with 19 years of experience, originally from Austin, Texas, and now based in Colorado Springs.
As a specialist in cutting, coloring, and extensions at Hairdressing Co., Juan Lino brings a modern, professional approach to his craft. In addition to his work behind the chair, he serves as the Director of Education for two local salons, where he mentors and develops emerging talent. As a Cutting Educator for the global brand Kevin Murphy, Juan Lino shares his expertise with a broad audience, demonstrating his passion for advancing industry standards. With foundational training from Toni&Guy and mastery of various cutting and coloring techniques, Juan Lino is dedicated to empowering fellow stylists. His work goes beyond aesthetics, fostering a sense of community and elevating the art of hairdressing.
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
Questions?
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Reach out to us!
Fill out the contact form, and we'll be happy to guide you.