Proving Oscar Wilde’s famous adage that “you can never be overdressed or overeducated,” Michael Kors and ELLE’s own Nina Garcia will host this year’s Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Annual Awards Gala tonight, Wednesday, April 13, at The Shed in New York City.
The black-tie event will honor “multifaceted visionaries whose achievements create purpose-driven, sustainable solutions for the new creative economy,” according to a press release, including Serena Williams, Aerin Lauder, Debra Martin Chase, and FIT alumna Brandice Daniel, founder and CEO of Harlem’s Fashion Row, for “her groundbreaking work in creating a platform for designers of color during New York Fashion Week and supporting women in building thriving businesses.”
As we look forward to the next generation of creatives, it’s fun to look back, too. With that in mind, we asked Kors and Garcia, who both studied at FIT, to share their favorite memories from school, thoughts on the future of fashion, and what else we can expect from the 2022 event, proceeds from which will support the FIT Foundation and help foster young talent through special programming, new initiatives, and funded scholarships.
What are you looking forward to most about tonight?
Nina Garcia: I’m excited that we’re raising funds live for the FIT Student Emergency Relief Fund, which was created to help students dealing with an unexpected event—whether it be illness, an accident, or the death of a family member—continue to pursue their education without worrying about finances or other difficulties. In this day and age, especially with the pandemic, it’s an incredibly meaningful cause. Of course, I’m also excited to reunite with Michael and host the gala together. We always have a great time.
Michael Kors: Co-hosting with my great friend Nina and honoring my dear friend Aerin Lauder. And supporting the students and staff of FIT—I remember when I was a student, surrounded by other young creatives and the remarkably talented faculty, it felt like I had found my chosen family. I’m happy to be able to support them and give today’s generation the opportunity to feel the same.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at FIT?
NG: When I first arrived at FIT, it struck me with how entrenched we were in the fashion industry. So many people were willing to help, and it was through FIT that I was able to leverage connections and experiences I wouldn’t have had otherwise. Through one of their programs, I got an internship at Perry Ellis, just as Marc Jacobs was showing his iconic grunge collection. It was the perfect time to be working there. That experience changed my life.
MK: Coming back with friends from late nights at Studio 54, grabbing speakers from our rooms, putting them in the hallways at the co-ed dorms, and having our very own Paris Is Burning-themed love ball and runway show.
How does the fashion industry need to change?
NG: I hope that young designers feel free to express their individuality and push fashion’s standards in a more inclusive direction, heralding in a new age of fashion that is transparent, responsible, and representative. We must work together and lay the groundwork now, especially in terms of sustainability, to secure a planet for our future generations.
MK: Students should continue to seek out great mentors and support from the industry, while at the same time questioning the rules and making fashion more diverse and more inclusive than ever before. Remember, having confidence and a strong point view will set you apart and take you to the next level.
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