What’s hitting the runway at Philly Fashion Week 2023

The runways are set for this year’s Philly Fashion Week, which takes place now through Sept. 24. 

Currently in its 18th year, the occasion will host a variety of free and ticketed runway shows, activations, workshops and networking opportunities that will showcase over 70 local and international designers. 

 “This year’s lineup is a testament to the incredible talent within our city and beyond,” said co-founder Kevin Parker in a statement. “It’s a celebration of fashion in all its forms.”

Philly Fashion Week is partnering with Fab Scrap and Fashion District Philadelphia for its 5th year in a row to give local students the chance to present their latest designs for the opportunity to win $1,000, plus, an educational session with industry professionals with the “Next Up Student Design Competition & Trend Show.”

As a release states, students from Moore College of Art, Jefferson University, Drexel University, Harcum University, University of Delaware and Albright College will be competing at Fashion District Philadelphia on Thursday, Sept. 21 at 5:30 p.m. for this specific event, which is free and open to the public.

“From our Student Design Competition & Trend Show to our Youth Runway Show, we are committed to fostering emerging talent, and this year is no exception,” said co-founder Kerry Scott in a statement. “Designers, models, industry professionals, and fashion enthusiasts alike can expect an unforgettable experience that celebrates diversity, creativity, and innovation.”

Philly Fashion Week will also host the Avantgarde Ball on Friday, Sept. 22, aka the “can’t miss” party and kick-off event for the weekend runway shows. This event will boast live entertainment, fashion activations and local food, and the attire calls for your “couture” best while guests mingle with industry professionals. The ball will take place in the courtyard at Two Commerce Square, and tickets can be purchased online for $82.22.

There will also be three runway shows this weekend for Philly Fashion Week.

As a release states, the Runway l show will take place on Saturday, Sept. 23, at 7 p.m. and will highlight designers Suede Square, Kovid Kapoor, Nasheli Juliana, Chamberlin Brand, Mind of Cool Rumors, TRTL Collective, Wonesh Designs, Fruitful Rooster, Andy Yu, Lewis Beilharz, Autumnlin and Closet by Christobal.

The Streetwear/Youth Runway show on the other hand will take on place on Sunday, Sept. 24, at 1 p.m., and will highlight designers IVAT, LREVERE, LE MORE, Mister Sir Brand, Visionaries, Atelier H, Ethyl.B, 7GODXX.

Designers Rabbit 3, Paragon Charisma, Mont Brown, Radicaltz, Nagaya Cloth, Zipporaa,O’Livis Couture, Yasmine Ings, D’Marsh Couture, Tygerian Lace and Dell Scott Collection will then be highlighted at The Runway ll show, which will take place on Sunday, Sept. 24, at 7 p.m.

 “Our runway shows are guaranteed to inspire and showcase the most creative and talented designers in the game,” finished Parker in a statement. “This is truly an experience that you do not want to miss.”

Tickets can be purchased online at phillyfashionweek.org for $50. More information can also be found on the site.