Paris-only: Summer Program

A One-Week Fashion Immersion

Dive into the heart of fashion with our Paris-Only Program, designed to offer intensive workshops and cultural experiences in the world's style capital.

Paris-Only
June Summer program 2025

Spend seven days exploring Paris, the birthplace of haute couture. This program focuses on sustainable fashion practices, industry networking, and portfolio development while immersing you in Parisian culture.


Why Business Education Matters in Fashion?

The Power of Business Education in Fashion:
Fashion is not just about creativity—it's about making an impact in a competitive industry. A strong foundation in business skills is essential for navigating the global fashion market, from managing brands to launching your own collections. Our program ensures you’re equipped with these critical tools to thrive.

Core Business Skills You'll Develop:

  • Brand Management: Learn how to position a fashion label, target audiences, and create impactful marketing strategies.

  • Entrepreneurship: Understand how to launch and scale your own fashion business with confidence.

  • Sustainability Practices: Gain insights into the future of fashion by exploring sustainable design and production processes.

  • Portfolio Development: Create a professional portfolio that showcases your technical skills and creative vision—an essential asset for fashion school applications or career opportunities.

Practical Experience Meets Admissions Success!
Don’t just dream about Fashion—be part of it! Experience the thrill, creativity, and glamour of the fashion industry in the city that defines style.

  • June 15–22, 2025

  • Paris centre, Montmartre (France)

  • Double Occupancy: $2,985 per person

What is included
Accommodations:
Stay in double-occupancy rooms in a premium hotel located in the charming Montmartre neighborhood of Paris. Program staff are housed on-site to provide support and foster community building.

Meals: Enjoy group meals featuring authentic French cuisine, including freshly baked pastries, gourmet dinners, and artisanal cheeses. Dietary restrictions and allergies can be accommodated.

  • Breakfast: Begin each morning with a classic Parisian breakfast, included daily for all seven days.

  • Group Meals (Lunch or Dinner): Relish 3–5 group meals, such as a welcome dinner, a farewell dinner,, and lunches during key program activities like museum tours.

  • On Your Own: Enjoy 6–9 chances to dine independently, soaking in Parisian culture at charming bistros, bakeries, and cafes.

Transportation:

  • All local transportation during the program, including visits to museums, fashion ateliers, and cultural landmarks.

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off services are provided on the program’s arrival and departure dates.

Workshops and Activities:

    • Sustainability in Fashion Workshop.

    • Hat Making Workshop.

    • Portfolio-Building Session with expert guidance.

Cultural Experiences:

    • Guided tours of iconic landmarks, including the Le Marais district and the Palais Galliera Museum.

    • Dior Museum tour with exclusive insights from designer Jørgen Simonsen.

    • Visit to the Eiffel Tower and a memorable farewell dinner in Paris.

Language Classes: French language lessons tailored to enhance cultural immersion and communication skills.

Networking Opportunities: Engage with industry professionals and like-minded peers, fostering connections for your future in fashion.

What is not included
Transportation: Students are responsible for arranging their own flights to and from Paris.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is required and must be arranged independently.

Personal Expenses: Optional activities, souvenirs, and personal costs are not included.

Program Highlights

Why This Program?
This program is tailored to pre-college students who aspire to enter the fashion world. By combining professional workshops, cultural experiences, and portfolio development, students will gain the skills, confidence, and global perspective to stand out in the competitive fashion industry.

Paris: The Capital of Haute Couture

Dive into Paris Men’s Fashion Week with show access and pop-up events.

Private guided tour of the Dior Museum led by renowned designer Jørgen Simonsen.

Portfolio-building sessions and workshops on sustainability in fashion.

Explore vintage boutiques, iconic Parisian neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks like Montmartre.

Professional Development

Build a standout portfolio with real-world insights and projects.

Network with top industry professionals and gain mentorship opportunities.

Gain global perspectives to enhance your understanding of fashion business and culture.

Our on-site Team

Ilyssa Wexler

CEO & Educator

Ilyssa Wexler is an educator, entrepreneur, and visionary leader who seamlessly blends business expertise with a passion for fashion. With over 20 years of entrepreneurial success and a dynamic background on Wall Street and in international business, Ilyssa has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between education and real-world fashion experiences.

In 2016, she founded Fashion for Futures (FFF), an organization designed to empower students with immersive fashion programs that combine practical skills, industry insights, and global exposure. As a professor of economics at New Haven University and the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in Florence, Ilyssa imparts her extensive knowledge of global markets, branding, and merchandising to aspiring professionals.

A former top sales leader on Wall Street, Ilyssa brings a unique perspective to the creative industries, combining analytical precision with entrepreneurial vision. Her dedication to fostering young talent extends to teaching at Columbia University's pre-college program, where she has helped countless students develop the confidence and skills to succeed in the competitive fashion landscape.

Ilyssa’s innovative approach and commitment to education continue to inspire and equip the next generation of leaders in the fashion industry.

Juan Lino

Stylist and Educator

Juan Lino is a seasoned hairstylist, barber, and educator with 19 years of experience in the beauty and fashion industries. Originally from Austin, Texas, and now based in Colorado Springs, Juan excels in cutting, coloring, and extensions while passionately mentoring the next generation of talent.

As the Director of Education for two salons and a Cutting Educator for the global brand Kevin Murphy, Juan elevates industry standards through comprehensive training and mentorship. His foundational training from Toni&Guy and modern approach to styling inspire professionals at all levels.

Juan has been a dedicated member of Fashion for Futures for several years, where he serves as the Director of the Hairstyling Program Backstage. He guides and mentors hairstylists during Fashion Week programs in Milan, Paris, and New York. His expertise and hands-on experience at top fashion events allow him to provide unique industry insights while fostering growth and creativity among students.

Juan’s commitment to creativity, empowerment, and community shines in every role he undertakes, inspiring others to excel and reach their full potential.

Itinerary at a Glance

  • Arrival and Orientation in Paris.

  • French Language Class

  • Le Marais Tour and Palais Galliera Museum.

  • Dior Museum Tour with Jørgen Simonsen.

  • Workshop: Sustainability in Fashion.

  • Hat Making Workshop and Portfolio-Building Session.

  • Eiffel Tower and Farewell Dinner.

  • Departure.

*Please be aware that We may require minor adjustments to the final program. However, Fashion for Futures guarantees an unforgettable experience with exclusive access to highly sought-after fashion opportunities.

Please note: we do NOT accept American Express.

Why Choose Fashion For Futures?

Why Choose Fashion For Futures?

Since 2016, we’ve been leading innovative programs, connecting students with top-tier professionals and preparing them for success in the fashion industry.

This comprehensive pre-college program offers students a unique opportunity to explore the fashion capitals of Paris while developing their skills, building their portfolios, and immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of this iconic city.

How to Enroll

  1. Visit our program website:
    www.fashionforfutures.com/milan-paris-summer-program

  2. Complete the online application form.

  3. Submit your $1000 deposit by March 15th, 2025, to secure your spot.

  4. For more information, email us at info@fashionforfutures.com.

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

Testimonials

  • Paris was everything I imagined and more. I left inspired and ready to pursue my dreams in fashion.

    Emily T.
    2024 Participant

FAQs for Parents

FAQs for Parents

    • Central City accommodations (double occupancy).

    • Daily breakfast, group lunches, and dinners (specific to each city).

    • Transportation:

      • Unlimited metro passes for program-related travel.

      • High-speed train travel from Milan to Paris (for combo participants).

      • Airport Transfers: Students will be picked up at the airport by program chaperones upon arrival.

    • All workshops, industry visits, and portfolio materials (sketchbooks, mood boards, design tools).

    • 24/7 supervision with trained staff and fashion industry professionals.

    • Flights to and from program start/end locations.

    • Personal expenses, such as souvenirs, snacks, or meals during free time.

    • Travel insurance (strongly recommended).

  • The program is fully supervised by experienced chaperones, educators, and fashion industry professionals. Students are accompanied at all scheduled activities, meals, and transportation.

  • Jørgen Simonsen is a world-renowned fashion designer with over three decades of experience working with iconic luxury brands, including Chanel, Valentino, and Versace. His designs have been worn by global celebrities like Madonna, Nicole Kidman, and Sarah Jessica Parker.

    Why is this opportunity unique?

    • Jørgen offers personalized portfolio-building sessions, providing feedback on sketches, mood boards, and creative concepts.

    • Students will have sketching opportunities and one-on-one mentorship to elevate their creative work to a professional level.

    • Jørgen’s experience gives students real-world insights into what top design schools and luxury brands are looking for.

    This is an exclusive chance to learn directly from a leading industry figure and refine your portfolio to stand out.

  • Participants in the Milan & Paris Combo Adventure will travel via high-speed train from Milan to Paris.

  • Yes. Students will be picked up at the airport by program chaperones upon arrival and transferred to their accommodations. Details on arrival times and pickup instructions will be provided closer to the program start date.

  • The safety and well-being of students is our top priority. We have strict safety protocols in place, including:

    1. Mandatory Group Structure:

      • Students must stay in groups of three or more during any free time.

    2. Regular Check-Ins:

      • Students will have scheduled check-ins with program staff throughout the day.

    3. 24/7 Supervision:

      • Program staff and chaperones are available at all times to support and assist students.

    4. Curfew Policy:

      • A curfew will be enforced to ensure students return to the hotel safely each evening.

    5. Emergency Contacts:

      • Students will have access to emergency contact numbers for program leaders and local coordinators.

    6. Hotel Safety:

      • Students stay in secure, centrally located hotels with monitored entry. Chaperones stay on the same floors as students.

    7. Daily Briefings:

      • Each morning begins with a briefing to outline the day’s schedule and safety reminders.

    8. Low Staff-to-Student Ratio:

      • Students receive personalized supervision and attention throughout the program.

  • Yes. Each student and their parent or guardian will be required to sign a release form prior to the program start date.

    What is the release form for?
    The Fashion for Futures Release Form ensures:

    • Program Participation: Students agree to participate responsibly in all scheduled activities.

    • Liability Waiver: Fashion for Futures and its staff are not liable for unforeseen incidents or personal choices made outside of supervised activities.

    • Photography & Media Release: Permission for photos or videos of students to be taken during the program for educational or promotional purposes.

    • Medical Consent: Authorization for program staff to seek necessary medical attention for students in the event of an emergency.

    The form ensures all parties are aligned on safety, participation, and expectations for the program.

    • A €1,000 deposit secures your spot.

    • Deposits are NON refundable 

    • Full payment is due 60 days before the program start date.

  • No, all materials will be provided, including:

    • Sketchbooks

    • Mood boards

    • Design tools

    Students are welcome to bring existing work if they wish to receive personalized feedback.

  • The program is designed for high school students aged 15–18 who are passionate about fashion design, business, and branding.

  • Once registered, families will receive:

    • A welcome packet with detailed program information.

    • Dates for pre-program Zoom calls to meet staff and answer any questions.

    • A detailed packing list and arrival instructions closer to the program start date.

  • Parents will receive contact details for:

    • Program staff (24/7 emergency line).

    • On-the-ground coordinators in Milan and Paris.

    Students will also have scheduled free time to contact families during the program.

    • Work with Industry Leaders: Sessions with Jørgen Simonsen in Paris and the Loro Piana Training Director in Milan.

    • Hands-On Workshops: Opportunities to develop key skills in design, sustainability, styling, and branding.

    • Exclusive Industry Access: Visits to Dior client relations, showrooms, and luxury ateliers.

    • Portfolio Development: Create standout pieces with personalized feedback from top professionals.

    • Sustainability Focus: Learn how luxury brands incorporate sustainable practices into modern fashion.

    • Inspiration Beyond the Classroom: Explore Milan and Paris, with cultural visits and a day trip to Lake Como.

    Is this program suitable for students interested in fashion business as well as design?

    Yes! This program is specifically designed for high school students aged 15–18 who are passionate about the business of fashion while also offering opportunities for creative exploration in design.

    For Fashion Business Students:

    • Gain exclusive insights into luxury brands like Dior and Loro Piana, focusing on branding strategies, client relations, operational management, and sustainability practices.

    • Participate in workshops on topics like supply chain management, luxury market economics, and fashion entrepreneurship.

    • Build a business-focused portfolio showcasing branding ideas, marketing campaigns, and creative strategies for the fashion industry.

    • Learn to develop and pitch business concepts during interactive sessions at industry hubs like L’Officiel magazine.

    For Design Students:
    While the program emphasizes the business side of fashion, students interested in design can also:

    • Work with renowned designer Jørgen Simonsen to receive personalized portfolio feedback and refine sketches, mood boards, and concepts.

    • Participate in hands-on workshops, including a hat-making session and a vintage styling workshop to explore craftsmanship, styling, and curation.

    By blending business-focused education with creative opportunities, students leave with a well-rounded understanding of the fashion industry and a competitive portfolio to showcase their skills for college applications or future careers.

Questions?

Do you have questions or you are unsure which program is right for you?
Reach out to us!

Fill out the contact form, and we'll be happy to guide you.