Ahead of the Columbus Fashion Week season, we sat down with the ultimate expert of all things fundraising, the brand’s cheerleader, and its driving force, Thomas McClure, Executive Director and Founder. We chatted with him about the energy of the season, why Columbus and what we can all expect to launch during an thrilling week of October 3-10.
1. What do you think of the fashion market in Columbus? industrial paragraph brand.We have some really incredible ones mode talent here in Columbus! At every Fashion Week we have produced over the last six years, I’ve been really impressed with the designers that were showcased on our runway. Columbus is ranked the #3 country for fashion designers, and adding apparel manufacturing as a final pivotal part in creating a sustainable fashion industry here is something I hope will occur in the next few years. 2. What is your biggest surprise about Columbus compared to other fashion cities?Columbus is a diversified, eclectic, locally driven city with an amazing arts and music scene. I believe people from the larger fashion city are surprised by how friendly the people here are. Also, Martinis are only $8-12 here compared to $18-20 in NY or LA! 3. What was your proudest moment during your ED?An enormous amount! As Executive Director and Founder of Fashion Week Columbus, my proudest moment is seeing the success of the designers we showcase on our runways. When they get picked up by major shops or boutiques – or when they win a national fashion design competition. Also, seeing the models that have walked our runways is great. Recently one of our former male models did a print campaign with Aeropostale. His face filled Time Square! Knowing we had a small role in helping him get to where he’s is a proud moment for me. 4. For newbies to Columbus, what’s one of your recommendations for getting to know the city better? Events to attend? People must meet?Fashion Week, obviously! But also, look at events in local Alive publications, go to Highball, Gallery Hop, Pride, Village Lights, and Crew games. Walk from the Hilton to 5th Street (or further) in Short North. Meet bartenders, gallery owners and boutique owners. There’s so much going on in our Arts District. It is where you’ll feel the heartbeat of the city. Then explore from there to other amazing spots like Gay Street and the Columbus district like German Village and Grandview. 5. What would you like New York and LA fashion gurus and bloggers to know about cbus and its designers? Broad or specific statements are fine!Columbus ranks #3 in our country for fashion designers, and we have some incredible fashion designers here putting out some incredible collections. 6. Favorite brand for shopping and favourite local brand?I love all our local boutiques! GLAM356, Tiger Tree, Artisan De Luxe, Rowe, Ladybird, Happy Go Lucky Her, Royal Factory, Thread, and Samson A Men’s Emporium…I am unable to just choose one. My favourite items: J Brand Denims from Artisan De Luxe and Giuseppe Zanotti shoes from SAKS at Polaris. Alongside a week of shows, social events, and meet and greets, Fashion Week Columbus has partnered with fashion brand development boutique PR firm, IL Moda PR to welcome some of the hottest boutiques, and department store shoppers, industry professionals, and more for one-on-one events. private peek to be held on Friday 9th October at Mind Market at CCAD. This is where shoppers and media can get a closer look at brand goods and potentially buy wholesale for their stores or host some media interviews for mainstream media in the room. Event producers such as Steve Leff of NYFW, will join the day for industry advice and feedback on brand development. |
