Runway 817: Empowering North Texas Student Designers in Fort Worth

The Genesis of Runway 817

• 💡 Runway 817 was inspired by a desire to shape Fort Worth into a fashion powerhouse by empowering the next generation of designers.
• 🚀 The concept emerged from a blend of modeling industry experiences and a vision for 'fashion with a purpose,' aiming for upward mobility for young talent.

Mentorship and Collaboration

• 🤝 Professional designers like Liza Fay mentor upcoming student designers, creating a unique intermingling of experience and fresh talent.
• ✨ Liza Fay expresses that mentoring young designers is a dream come true, allowing her to showcase her own work while encouraging others.
• 🎯 The program collaborates with Fort Worth ISD and Dallas ISD, fostering a supportive environment for student designers.

Fashion with a Purpose

• 💖 Beyond showcasing designs, Runway 817 emphasizes an altruistic purpose, supporting the local nonprofit Beat Kids Cancer.
• 🌟 The initiative aims to fill a perceived gap in the DFW area's fashion scene, striving to make it a "fashion metaplex."
• 📣 Runway 817 provides a much-needed platform for both student and professional designers who work hard but may lack visibility.

Student Designer Experience

• 🎓 Student participants express deep gratitude for the opportunity, finding the experience fun and exciting as they build looks for the runway.
• 🌱 The program offers valuable learning experiences and a chance for students to grow within the fashion community.