Austin Fashion Week 2025: Celebrating Innovation and Diversity in Fashion
As Austin Fashion Week enters its 17th year, it continues to solidify its status as the largest and longest-running fashion event in Texas. This vibrant celebration of style not only showcases the creativity of independent and emerging brands but also serves as a platform for designers who are eager to sell directly to consumers. Ranking as the fourth largest fashion week concept in the United States, Austin Fashion Week is set to make a significant impact once again this spring!
Scheduled for May 8-10, 2025, in partnership with The Domain, this season promises an exciting lineup of events that highlight the best in fashion innovation and community engagement. The festivities will feature approximately 50 runway designers and 10-15 pop-up brands, with most shows taking place on the streets of The Domain, where the area will be transformed into a bustling fashion hub.
Kickoff with INCUBATE
The week will kick off on Thursday, May 8, with the INCUBATE show, presented by the ACC Fashion Incubator. This event will spotlight five exceptional brands from the incubator alongside seven other emerging talents. Notably, nine of the brightest University of Texas 2025 seniors will present their four-look Capstone collections, while twelve spectacular graduating designers from Austin Community College will showcase one look each, setting the stage for a dynamic start to the week. Preston James, Co-Founder and CEO of DivInc, will be walking the runway as the show’s Style Strutter in partnership with Macy’s to support DivInc’s incredble mission.
Celebrating Black Designers
On Friday, May 9, the Black Designer Showcase, presented by the Austin Area Urban League, will take center stage. Now in its fourth year, this event celebrates the incredible contributions of Black designers, primarily from Texas. This spring’s showcase is set to be the largest yet, featuring 19 runway designers and over 130 stunning looks. The event will be graced by Style Strutter Dr. Melva K. Wallace, President of Huston-Tillotson University, with a portion of ticket sales benefiting the university’s impactful missions.
Sustainable Fashion on Saturday
Saturday, May 10, will be a highlight of Austin Fashion Week, beginning with the SUSTAIN show at 1:00 PM, presented by Goodwill Central Texas. This groundbreaking event marks the first collaboration between Austin Fashion Week and Goodwill, featuring 30 local fashion designers and stylists who will present a fully sustainable fashion show. All garments showcased have been sourced from Goodwill and then upcycled for the runway. The show will include three Style Strutters: Jennifer Carter from Goodwill, Ashley Sauls of Tribeza, and Allison Miller from CBS Austin, with a portion of ticket sales donated to Goodwill Central Texas.
Following SUSTAIN, the EMERGE show at 3:30 PM will feature 15 emerging fashion designers from across the United States. This event will also highlight Style Strutter Michael Torres, CEO of the Center for Child Protection, who will walk the runway in partnership with Macy’s, with ticket sales supporting the Center’s vital work.
A Grand Finale with LAUNCH787
The week will culminate with LAUNCH787 at 8:00 PM on May 10, celebrating local Austin talent. This exciting finale will showcase 18 outstanding local brands that embody the spirit of Austin, alongside a special presentation of drag fashion designers. Style Strutter Paula Bookidis, CEO of Girl Scouts of Central Texas, will grace the runway, with a portion of ticket sales benefiting the Girl Scouts of Central Texas.
Austin Fashion Week Spring 2025 promises to be a remarkable celebration of creativity, diversity, and community involvement. With its commitment to supporting independent designers and promoting sustainable practices, this year’s event is set to inspire fashion enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this vibrant showcase of talent and innovation! Tickets are still available. Purchase yours today!