“How’d you like the show?” Calvin Klein Collection’s Francisco Costa asked us last night after the FIT Future of Fashion Show. “Amazing, right?” No kidding. The graduating class of 2015 presented 72 store ready looks including 9 critic award-winning looks in children’s wear, intimate apparel, knitwear, special occasion, and sportswear. Color us impressed.
Each year the production of the show also improves: This time around, Nicole Richie served as host, the front row seats were more comfortable (yes, we noticed), and the front row included Bryan Boy, Nicky Hilton, The Blonds, Lorraine Schwartz, and Sonja Morgan. Never too early to get that front row filled with celebs.
The critic award winners were chosen from judges such as Reem Acra, Nicholas K, and Phillip Lim. The names to know? Anjani Yarlagadda, Esmerelda Fyhr, Ting He, Chanan Reifen, Lisaneyla Almonte, Sofia Menasse, Luis Peralta, Veronica Romero Schon, and Jose Camacho. For the first time, a People’s Choice Award was presented, which went to Caroline Vagnone. Judges such as Anne Keane and Colleen Sherin initially checked out 190 looks created by 160 students to find runway-worthy contenders.
Calvin Klein presented the show, with Costa, an alum himself, telling us why the school is near and dear to their heart. “It speaks directly to the city. It’s a public school so it appeals to a broad audience,” he explained. “You have Michael Kors and Calvin who came from here. We hire a lot of people from FIT. It’s a dear school to us. Coming from Brazil, I came here and felt very engaged. The resources are gigantic, and they’re all here.” Per usual it was miniature Karlie and Gigis who provided the ‘awwws’ and hilarity as they walked down the runway, filled with sass, some with their hands on their hips. “The kids always steal the show! No matter what!” Costa said.
