The Fashion Industry Conference is a premier two-day gathering designed to bring together industry professionals from across the region and beyond. This dynamic event serves as a hub for knowledge sharing, education, and networking, fostering meaningful connections among designers, fashion executives, entrepreneurs, educators, and creatives shaping the future of fashion.
Through expert-led panels, keynote presentations, and the newly added FASHION MATTERS (TEDx-style talks), attendees gain valuable insights into emerging trends, business strategies, and innovations driving the industry forward. The conference also provides a platform to connect with like-minded professionals, discover new opportunities, and collaborate on groundbreaking ideas.
Whether you're a fashion industry veteran, an emerging designer, or a creative entrepreneur, the Fashion Industry Conference offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with industry leaders, expand your expertise, and elevate your career.
Join us for two inspiring days of learning, networking, and innovation, where fashion’s future takes shape.
Day One: The State of Fashion In Ohio
Leaders from cities across the state will share how fashion is driving economic growth, cultural identity, and innovation in their communities.
🎤 Keynote Announcement:
Celebrity designer duo BruceGlen will open the conference on May 29, bringing color, energy, and powerful storytelling to the main stage.
Day One Schedule:
3:30PM - Welcoming Reception
4:30PM - The State of Fashion in Ohio
Featured Day One Speakers:
Bruce & Glen Proctor (Designer Brand BruceGlen)
Damika Withers (Franklin County Board of Commissioners)
State Representative Dontavius Jarrells (State of Ohio)
Lubna Najjar (Common Thread Shops On Third)
Melanie Corn (Columbus College of Art & Design)
Steve Morris (CBus Retail)
Sasha Saberi (Columbus Fashion Council)
Aditi Bhatiya (Passport 2 Fashion)
Eddie Parker (Columbus Fashion Alliance)
Laura VonHolle (Heyman Talent Agency)
Aimon Ali (Fashion Talks)
Max Dixon (Columbus Fashion Council)
Laurie Wilson (College of Design, Architecture, Art & Planning)
Jo Miller (Hocking College)
Thomas McClure (Columbus Fashion Council)
Victor Leon (Macy's)
Betsy Pandora (Short North Alliance)
Additional Speakers TBA.
Complimentary Wine & Hors d'oeuvres (3:30PM)
Day Two: The Fashion Panels
Expect bold conversations and TEDx-style talks on tariffs and global trade, rethinking DEI, upcycling, brand building through retail, and more.
Day Two Schedule:
12:00PM - Lunch Reception
1:00PM - The Cost of Style: How Tariffs Are Reshaping Fashion
2:00PM - Brand Building Through Retail Opportunities
3:00PM - Designing with Rescued Materials & Reclaimed Style
4:00PM - Diversity Done Right: From Trend to Transformation
5:00PM - Fashion Matters (TEDx-Style Talks)
Featured Panel Guests TBA
Complimentary Snack Lunch & Refreshments (12:00PM)
Day Two: FASHION MATTERS
This year’s event introduces FASHION MATTERS, a series of TEDx-style talks covering today’s most pressing topics in fashion, business, and creative innovation.
Fashion Matters Schedule:
5:00PM - Fashion Matters (TEDx-Style Talks)
Featured Speakers TBA
Complimentary Snack Lunch & Refreshments (12:00PM)