Fashion For Futures
Your access to the world of Fashion
Our Mission
At Fashion for Futures, our mission is to provide high-quality, immersive experiences that give students exclusive access to the ever-evolving and challenging fashion industry. We aim to equip our alumni with the skills and insights needed to secure positions at top fashion houses, launch successful brands, and drive sustainable fashion practices forward. The confidence, expertise, and networks our students build through this immersive approach are a testament to both the quality of our programs and their dedication to excelling in the fashion world.
Who We Are
Fashion for Futures is an innovative organization that provides students and emerging fashion talents with hands-on experiences, immersive education, and unparalleled access to the fashion industry. Our programs are designed to coincide with major Fashion Weeks around the world, offering exclusive backstage access and invaluable networking opportunities with industry leaders. We focus on fostering creativity and providing participants with the practical skills and real-world exposure needed to succeed in the competitive fashion landscape.
Student Programs: Fashion Week Access & Portfolio Building
Fashion for Futures goes beyond traditional education, offering precollege and university programs designed to give students firsthand experience during Fashion Week in New York, Milan, and Paris. Through these programs, students get behind-the-scenes access to prestigious runway shows, off-calendar events, and one-on-one guidance from seasoned mentors and chaperones.
Participants have the unique opportunity to build a portfolio that showcases their work with top-tier designers and real-world fashion experiences, helping them stand out when applying to fashion schools or launching their careers. Students also build critical business and life skills while forming invaluable networks during and beyond Fashion Week events. Our holistic approach ensures students are equipped with the technical expertise, creativity, and business acumen required to succeed in the fashion world.
Elevate Your Hair Styling Career: An Unbeatable European Experience
At Fashion for Futures, our Professional Program for hair stylists is designed to push you beyond your comfort zone and immerse you in the heart of the fashion world. Led by our Hair Director, Juan Lino, whose styles have been featured in Vogue for Maxhosa, this exclusive program offers an unbeatable cultural and professional experience across two iconic European cities: Milan and Paris.
Participants will train alongside top hair professionals and receive on-site guidance during Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks, gaining backstage access to major runway shows. You'll work directly with renowned designers, hone your skills with professional hair sponsors, and collaborate on cutting-edge styles featured on the global stage.
This immersive experience isn't just about technical training—it's about stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing the cultural richness of Europe's fashion capitals. From hands-on workshops to intimate networking events, you'll immerse yourself in the creative pulse of these cities, with curated itineraries that blend education, exploration, and industry immersion.
By the end of the program, you will have built a world-class portfolio, strengthened your international network, and gained the creative and business skills needed to take your salon or career to the next level. With the guidance of Juan Lino and the prestige of Fashion for Futures, this European journey provides unmatched exposure to the global fashion industry.
CEO, GUIDE and Educator:
Ilyssa Wexler
Fashion for Futures was founded in 2016 by Ilyssa Wexler, a former New Yorker now based in Florence, Italy. A passionate educator and visionary leader, Ilyssa brings a unique blend of business expertise and fashion knowledge to the table. With over two decades of entrepreneurial success and a strong background in Wall Street and international business, Ilyssa's mission is to bridge the gap between education and real-world fashion experiences, empowering students to thrive in the competitive fashion industry.
As a professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in Florence and a former top sales leader on Wall Street, Ilyssa combines her creative passion with deep business acumen. She has also taught at prestigious institutions such as the pre-college program at Columbia University, helping young talents develop the skills and confidence necessary to succeed.
Ilyssa's approach goes beyond just teaching technical skills—she focuses on building professional portfolios, honing business strategy, and preparing students to launch their own fashion careers or brands. Her programs provide students with the essential tools to navigate the ever-evolving fashion industry, from backstage access at major global events to one-on-one mentorship that helps them develop critical business and creative skills.
Under Ilyssa's guidance, students benefit from years of real-world insights and mentorship that prepares them for success in top fashion houses, launching their own brands, or securing a place in the fashion world. Her focus on portfolio building and entrepreneurship ensures that each student is equipped with the business knowledge and creative vision necessary to make a significant impact in the fashion industry.
We invite you to embark on a transformative journey with Fashion for Futures. Whether you are a student seeking unique backstage experiences aligned with Fashion Weeks or a professional aiming to enhance your skills, our programs provide a supportive environment that fosters creativity, access, and industry immersion.
Together, let's shape the future of fashion and help you make a lasting impact on the industry.
