Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Brooklyn Arts Ambassador Colm Dillane of KidSuper released an open call for emerging fashion designers hoping to showcase five complete looks at a full-service fashion show hosted at Brooklyn Borough Hall this fall. Applications close July 6.
The call for designers is open to all Brooklyn residents ages 18 and above — applications close July 6 at 11:59 p.m. The five selected designers will each be awarded $5,000 grants and mentorship opportunities with Colm Dillane of KidSuper. Interested designers may apply here starting today.
“From streetwear in Bed-Stuy to bridal boutiques in Bay Ridge, people from all over the world come to Brooklyn for the fashion and style that originates here,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso.
“While it’s never been easy for artists, today it’s nearly impossible for young and aspiring designers to get their foot in the door. But a bet on Brooklyn is never lost – and inaugural Arts Ambassador Colm Dillane knows that firsthand,” he said.
“Today, we’re launching our search for five emerging Brooklyn designers who are defining the next chapter of what Brooklyn fashion is and can be – bold, expressive, and rooted in culture. I’m so grateful for Colm’s partnership as we build an artist network based on mentorship, opportunity, and excellence, and I can’t wait to see the work Brooklyn’s up-and-coming designers have to show.”
“Brooklyn is home – and no two blocks ever look the same. You’ve got skaters weaving past strollers, old-school locals trading stories, and kids in head-to-toe looks they styled themselves. That kind of unfiltered, everyday expression keeps me inspired,” said Colm Dillane, the creative force behind KidSuper. “I’m excited to help guide these young creatives as they shape their own version of what Brooklyn looks like now,” said the politician.
If selected, each designer will be invited to show five looks at a special full-service fashion show hosted at Brooklyn Borough Hall during New York Fashion Week in September.
Each designer will receive a $5,000 grant to assist with expenses.
The Office of the Brooklyn Borough President (OBKBP) will not provide materials, tools, or professional assistance with garment construction. The designer collection must be ready 15 days before the fashion show.
Applicants must be residents of Brooklyn and must be 18 years or older. All designs must be finalized by Aug. 29. The Fashion Show will be held in the Fall of 2025
The Office of the Brooklyn Borough President will provide a venue with the runway, lighting, sound, music, stage design, hair and makeup, models, styling, photography, and videography.
The BP will handle all seating, ticketing, and communications, including press.
The Office of the Brooklyn Borough President is an inclusive equal opportunity agency of the City of New York. The Office of the Brooklyn Borough President encourages individuals of all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Eligibility will not be determined by an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
