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    • Home
    • About Us
      • The Foundation
      • #DatDEFIFam
      • Our Village
      • Join Our Meetup
      • Contact Us
    • The (DE-FI) Incubator
    • The Fashion Pipeline
      • Fashion Advancement
      • Gem City Sewing Company
      • The Garment District
      • (DE-FI)ance Magazine
      • So You Wanna Be A Model
      • Dayton Fashion Week
      • Dayton Design Week
      • The House of (DE-FI)ance
      • Dayton Threads
    • The Fashion Experience
      • Beyond A Show
      • The Runway
      • Art, Wine, and Fashion
      • The Agency Visit
      • New York Fashion Week
      • Edification & Cultivation
      • Art, Fashion & Networking
      • Fashion,Mission, & Mingle
      • In The Community
    • Sponsorship
      • Benefits
      • Sponsorship Packet
      • 2021 Sponsors
      • 2020 Sponsors
      • 2013-19 Sponsors
  • Home
  • About Us
  • The (DE-FI) Incubator
  • The Fashion Pipeline
  • The Fashion Experience
  • Sponsorship

The Rebirth of Dayton's Fashion Week

(Insert long dramatic sigh here)
Well, as you know by now, COVID-19 wrecked havoc on our plans for #TheReboot of Dayton Fashion Week and while it may not have been the 20/20 "perfect vision" we had anticipated...we still have vision nonetheless.  December 5th-11th, 2021. #SaveTheDate #WeAreTryingAgainDayton Fashion Week is under new Ownership and Management; now powered by the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC the architect of one of the most influential fashion organizations in the country and who coined the term "The Fashion Experience" in 2013, while using community outreach as the cornerstone of our foundation. Dayton Fashion Week represents the 4th level of the (DE-FI) Incubator that is supported by the Council of Fashion Designers of America CFDA Connects.


Inspired by fashion weeks from Fashion Capitals in New York, Paris, and Milan, Dayton Fashion Week is designed to bring participants and guest alike a fully immersive fashion experience. Led by a volunteer team of experienced fashion industry professionals, business owners,  and event planning specialists; our vision is to celebrate Dayton as not only the Birthplace of  Aviation  but as the Innovation Capital of the World!   It is our mission to  provide support to Dayton and the Midwest fashion industries in the form of business  resources, exposure, education, advocacy, and advancement. 

 

Acquired in December 2016, (DE-FI) spent  2017-18 planning and rebranding the image and purpose of Dayton Fashion Week which was slated to debut in the March 18-21 ,2020. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Stay at Home orders issued the week before, the 2020 Fashion Experience was cancelled.  Since that time (DE-FI)'s leaders went back to the drawing boards to develop a safe and effective plan that allows everyone to experience first hand the energy and magic of one of the world's most inclusive fashion week experiences with an exclusive feel.


 The Headlining Designers will be selected from designers in the (DE-FI) Incubator during the 2021 A Weekend of (DE-FI)ance.  Using the knowledge and opportunities provided during the (DE-FI) Incubator, each designer will pitch their brand before a panel of judges.  (6) designers will be selected to Headline Dayton Fashion Week based on how "industry ready" their brand is.  They will be judged on the following criteria:

  1. Vision
  2. Mission
  3. Business Structure
  4. Investors
  5. Sponsorships
  6. Team Building
  7. Knowledge of the Industry
  8. Ability to stay on budget
  9. Branding
  10. DFW Readiness
  11. Quality of (3) pieces which will be shown during the Pitch Event


Designers not selected to Headline will show their lines as a part of  the Opening Act Experience.  These curated trainings give emerging designers the unique opportunity to strengthen their business skills in a real time opportunities and curriculum taught by industry and business experts!  Designers selected to Headline  Dayton Fashion Week will have the opportunity to grow their brand by participating in various Business of Fashion Modules presented to them over the months leading up to fashion week.


Having 6 seasons of experience working behind the the scenes with the Council of Fashion Designers of America's Volunteer Program,  for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week from 2013-16;  Dayton Fashion Week is open to other producers to host their own  #FashionExperience.   Unlike other regional Fashion Weeks, the Headlining event will be produced by (DE-FI),  mirroring that of New York Fashion Week . Each Headlining Designer will have the runway, audience, and venue to themselves.  Meaning, unlike other regional fashion events, there will not be another designer showing  immediately after; each designer will have a different runway setting and audience, and more! 


Tentative Schedule for the (DE-FI) Produced Headlining Experience during Dayton Fashion Week 2021 is as follows:
Sunday, December 5th

937 Street Style Festival

Monday, December 6th

First Flight Now Fashion

Tuesday, December 7th

Fashion, Mission, Mingle

Wednesday, December 8th

Art, Wine, and Fashion

Thursday, December 9th

Stylish Mom Runway

Friday, December 10th

Taste of (DE-FI)ance

Saturday, December 11th

The Art of (DE-FI)ance Gala (Inspired by the Met Gala)


Dayton Fashion Week will designers that are transforming the industry, opportunities for aspiring models to grow and develop their craft, and  will serve as the annual fundraisers the  The House of (DE-FI)ance: A Fashion & Design Co-working Experience. The 2021 DFW will also feature networking events, photoshoots for (DE-FI)ance MAgazine,  as well as independently produced events.  Presenting a Fashion Experience like no other...It's more than a show. 


Explore the role fashion plays in everyday life. This week long series is an important opportunity for our community to unite under a  common passion. Join us in #TheReboot of an all inclusive week long celebration of all things fashion!  Mark your calendars for December 5th-11th, 2021.   

The 937 Street Style Festival

Street Style and Clothing Swaps

The 937 Street Style Festival will take place on December 5th, 2021. 5p-9p. Grab your squad, come dressed to slay, and let's show the Fashion World  why the 937 is ready to take over as the Fashion Capital of the Midwest  at the ultimate style fest of the year! 


What's the most awesome thing you can do to support sustainable and ethical fashion during Dayton Fashion Week? A clothing swap! Clear the clutter and upgrade your wardrobe without spending a dime! Bring your gently used clothing and accessories to a location TBD. Participants may bring as many items as they'd like.
 

Do you have any clothes or accessories that you absolutely love but just may not wear anymore? We certainly do and where sure that you do too so bring those gently used garments and accessories over to the Dayton Fashion Week Clothing Swap!
 

SHOP FOR FREE…yes we said FREE, however if you’d like to support our growth a $5 donation is suggested, donations will go towards securing a venue that addresses every aspect of the fashion industry in one synergistic place where design and fashion professionals and entrepreneurs can work and prosper together!
 

Participants can search through items dropped off by other fashionista’s and fashionisto’s to replace the items you are trading in. All sizes and styles are encouraged to participate. Items will be organized by size and style. Feel free to bring shoes, belts, accessories, bags, along with your wardrobe items.
 

(Please Note: All items MUST BE CLEAN. We are not accepting any undergarments. Items that may be missing parts or have non-conforming parts like buttons or zippers MUST be identified by pinning a note on the item so that we can organize them in a special area.  All items should be folded and in good condition (ask yourself would I give this item to a friend?).
 

Bring your own bag, please - we are trying to make this as green an event as possible
 

Disclaimer: By participating in this event you are forfeiting ownership of the clothing items donated and understand that you can only take up to 5 items away from the event. You also understand that in some cases you may not find items you wish to take away with you, in which case you cannot ask for your donated items returned or a refund.  


This is your day to indulge in  fun and fashionable moments a galore, including: 

  • Live performances by local artist 
  • Cool sounds brought to you by  one of the areas top DJ's
  • Live fashion show featuring the best looks from the crowd 
  • Curated conversations with regional fashion professionals 
  • Interactive moments with impactors 
  • Kids Zone loaded with exciting activities for our fashionable minis 
  • Instagrammable moments 
  • Don’t miss the ultimate celebration of Community, Culture and Style! 
  • Clothing Swap
  •  Open Acts Fashion Show 
  • Style Boss Honorees


The Taste of (DE-FI)ance

Where Fashion Meets Food

Question:  Are you ready to #TasteTheRunway? From haute couture to haute cuisine, our signature event A Taste of (DE-FI)ance Magazine Release Party returns as a part of the 2021 Dayton Fashion Week.  If you loves fashion as much as you love fine dining then  this is an event that you do not want to miss!


Question: So, what happens when you take some of the Midwest's hottest Chefs and you team them up with one of the nations hottest emerging fashion designers?

Answer:  You’ll find out on Friday, December 10th, 2021 when the Dayton Emerging  Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC produces Day 6 of the Headlining Experience of Dayton Fashion Week 


Question:  So, what exactly is Taste of (DE-FI)ance Magazine?

Answer:  We're glad you asked because fashion has never looked or tasted so  good–no there won’t be any Lady Gaga inspired meat dresses making their way down the runway! The Taste of (DE-FI)ance Magazine is a concept that was introduced to us by our friends at the Alternative Fashion Mob in Columbus, OH in 2013 and is inspired by Italian Designer and Chef Anna Marconi’s Taste of Runway.  This Fashion Meets Food Experience touchdown on our runway in January 2014  before a SOLD OUT audience. 


The selected Chef will work one on one with a Dayton Fashion Week Headlining Designer, to  create a 3 course meal that includes an appetizers, entree, dessert, and beverage that not only  compliments the origin of the fabric used but will also draw from their artistic skills by using only ingredients and colors that reflects the design.


Question: What else will Taste of (DE-FI)ance feature?

Answer: Featuring  the Culinary stylings of one of the regions Best Chef's and matched with the designs of an Invited Headlining Designer.  A Taste of (DE-FI)ance features interactive build stations based on the streamer creations made in our Kids area during the Grand Opening of The House of (DE-FI)ance: A Fashion & Design Coworking Experience that will used to teach kids how to sew and be turned into wearable pieces. The Taste of (DE-FI)ance will also feature a DJ and a Designer Trunk Show, live photoshoots for the cover of (DE-FI)ance Magazine, and dancing. So come ready to shop till you drop, then building your energy back up with some awesome food, and then burn those calories by getting your dance on!


Question: #WhoWillLandTheCoverof one of the Midwest HAUTEST publications (DE-FI)ance Magazine?

Answer:  There is only ONE way to find out...the P.S. this event is ALWAYS SOLD OUT 

#FashionMeetsFood #TakingItToTheNextLevel #TheFashionPipeline #FashionAdvancement #WhatDoYouDEFI #FirstFlightNowFashion 

On Jan.3,2014 we hosted the Sold Out and inaugural Taste of  (DE-FI)ance pairing Chef Anthony Head for a one of a kind fashion meets  food experience!  The premise of this event is to take the origin of the  fabrics used in the design itself  along with the concept or theme of  the collection and create a tasty appetizer. #FashionMeetsFood  #TasteTheRunway 

Fashion, Mission, Mingle

Celebrating Community Action and Outreach

Do you know of a grassroots effort that steps up in a major way or an empowering and community minded speaker ?  (DE-FI) is looking for guest speakers and a local initiative to support as a part of this celebration, nominate your favorite grassroots organization today, send an email to info@daytonemergingfashionincubator.com , be sure to include the organizations name, mission, needs, and contact information.  The deadline for nominations is September 17th, 2021. 


We  are also  providing opportunities for Fashion Professionals to gain additional knowledge about the business and marketing aspects of the industry as well! Fashion, Mission & Mingle will feature  presentations and a  panel discussion with industry insiders. Believe us  when we say,  you don't want to miss this celebration.   Have some experience to share and would like to join our panel, contact us at the email listed above.


This experience will also feature: 

** A Headlining Runway Experience 

**  Panel Discussions  

**  Speed Networking: here's your chance to connect with some of the areas  established and up and coming fashion professionals and community  leaders

** Fashion Plugs Have your 30 second elevator speech ready because this is your chance to plug your fashion business

**  Community Outreach Plugs Have your 30 second elevator speech ready  because this is your chance to plug your community outreach efforts 

Art, Wine, and Fashion

Art, Wine & Fashion debuted in 2015, and quickly became a (DE-FI) classic experience where the Headlining Designer shares the story of the inspiration behind their line and guide guest through creative exercises designed to help them tell their story via the painting process. 

 

We will also have a Chef on hand to help guest to create a customized entree based on their story and prepare a specialty entree on location, complete with a mini-runway  presentation. Making this a Fashion Experience like no other!


Due  to both the intimate and intricate nature of this event, tickets for  this experience are limited. 

(Note: Customized/self-reflecting based entree, canvas, paint, easel, and other supplies are included in the ticket price.) 


#BeyondAShow #ItsAnExperience #FashionAndArt #FoodMeetsFashion #TheEvolutionOfDEFI #TheFashionPipeline #FashionAdvacement #WhatDoYouDEFI #FirstFlightNowFashion

Art, Wine, and Fashion with Walt Leigh

Hosted by the Edward A, Dixon Gallery

Stylish Mom Runway

Dear Mama

The meaning of being a mother is endless! Like our work you incubated an entire life for 9 months, you’re legally responsible for them for at least 18 years, you cover these broke best friends with your insurance for almost 27 years, and just as you finally get your empty nest just the way you like it…here comes your grown moochers with your grandkids!


As a mother you protect, discipline, provide, equip, and mentor your children and grandchildren which means sometimes, there very little time for you to take care of you. And Dayton Fashion Week is here to give you an opportunity to get dolled up and say “Forget dem kids!”


Mom’s this is your time to shine, get dolled up and remind the world just how you earned the title “Mama”. Our Stylish Mom Runway gives area moms the opportunity to Rock the Runway for one of our Headlining Designers and get pampered in the process. Mark Your Calendars for Thursday, December 9, 2021.


Sponsor a Mom

Do you own a spa or salon?  We are looking to partner with area spas and salons to give our selected Model Moms a day of pampering and a makeover that they will debut during our Stylish Mom Runway Experience.  Contact us today to sponsor these deserving moms!

The Art of (DE-FI)ance Gala

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 11th, 2021, for the inaugural Met Gala inspired experience benefitting of the House of (DE-FI)ance:A Fashion & Design Coworking Experience and the Art of (DE-)ance. 

Host A Event

Are you an independent and creative thinker and have an idea for an event that you'd like to produce during Dayton  Fashion Week? Well, here's your chance to be a part of the fabric of the Gem City's Fashion Scene! 


We are looking for producers to join us in this first of its kind community event for the area. We firmly believe that the fashion industry should be an accessible and inclusive community whose voice cannot be (DE-FI)ned by a single producer or organizer.  It has long been the belief and practice of the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC that in order for our vision of Dayton becoming a Fashion destination and the Fashion capital of the Midwest, we need more organizers and producers hosting fashion events in the area!


Independently produced events and hosts are important to our success! Organizations, businesses,  producers, designers and etc are invited to join us in coming together to  host events promoting and showcasing the multifaceted and interconnected  forms of design. Each event will give people the chance to meet local  designers, learn from each other, and promote collaboration to drive the  Miami Valley forward.


Dayton Fashion Week will consists of one giant Collabetive Collabetation effort to hold a variety of  events from exhibitions, installations, product launches, talks, and  tours. The goal is to have these events held at a diverse range of venues including trade fairs, galleries, museums, shops, showrooms,  studios, markets, restaurants, pop-up venues and warehouses to feature a  diverse set of voices and perspectives across all design disciplines.

 

Whether you’re a designer, an industry supporter or simply  interested in  helping to increase your brands visibility  via  our printed guide,  website, newsletters, social media, PR and team support we welcome  everyone to apply to host an event!


Hosting Options Include:


Pop-Up Shop-  This is a great way to connect your product directly to your customers! You determine the location of the event which can be a coffee  shop, public space or co-working venue — be creative! 


EARLY BIRD FEE TO APPLY $99.  Early Bird pricing ends September 17th, 2021 


Coffee with a Designer-  This is a great way to ease into the process of hosting an event, and morning and early afternoons are underutilized during the week. You determine the location of the meetup which can be a coffee shop, public  space or co-working venue — be creative! This is also the most intimate  format as it can include one-on-one meetups or small groups. We recommend capping participants at 12-15.


EARLY BIRD FEE TO APPLY: $50  Early Bird pricing ends September 17th, 2021


Studio Crawl- The organized Studio Crawl will be a fan favorite, , get on the party bus and get ready to support locally owned businesses!  Studio Crawls are a fundraiser for The House of (DE-FI)ance: A Fashion & Design Co-working Experience, we are asking for 20% donation of all sales. We plan the  Studio Crawl based on the locations of the majority of participating studios. Participating studios are selected by (DE-FI) advisors based on what they think will make the best experience for attendees.


EARLY BIRD FEE TO APPLY: $99  Early Bird pricing ends September 17th, 2021



Produce Your Own Experience-  Hosting  an event is an opportunity for you to create your own original  programming which can include, but is not limited to, a runway  experiences a workshop, panel discussion, or a speaker. Well-attended  events tend to engage a topic that provides valuable takeaways or  includes well-known speakers.


EARLY BIRD FEE TO APPLY: $199   Early Bird pricing ends September 17th, 2021 


Non-Profits participate for free, additional details will be announced soon.  If you are struggling financially and would still like to participate, there will be a Hardship Application.


Need a little inspiration for hosting an event?  Check out some of the events produced by our parent company (DE-FI) in The Fashion Experience!  They have produced and hosted various styles of events that range from  intimate  experiences of (10) guest to large full scale production  experiences of (500) guest, and everything in between 

Vendors for the Headlining Experience

Join us on Sunday Decmber 5th thru Saturday, December 11th, 2021 as we celebrate fashion at its finest with a Fashion Experience unlike any to ever grace the Midwest. As a vendor, you bring your product to an audience of sophisticated buyers from around the Midwest and your product will have placement in the fastest growing regional, fashion event in the country. Dayton Fashion Week Vendor Table fee is $75.
 

Vendor package include two (2) general admission vendor passes to the (DE-FI) Produced event that you will be vending. Vendors are responsible for bringing their own tables and chairs. Please note. We note that vending opportunities are limited and will go quickly, so we encourage you to apply today!  


Whether you specialize in providing beauty products, fashion apparel and accessories, jewelry, home accessories, children’s items, original artwork, books & literature, or pre-packaged food items, Dayton Fashion Week's Headlining Experience is the place to be to give your business a platform like no other.


All Vendor Spaces are $75 per 10x10 space;  space is limited, applications will be available During A Weekend of (DE-FI)ance , September 17th.

Volunteers

The Backbone of Dayton Fashion Week

The  Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC has quickly become one of the most influential fashion organizations in the country offering opportunities for talented individuals interested in significantly  developing their skills and gaining exposure to real world applications   in fashion. Dayton Fashion Week is scheduled for December 5th-11th, 2021.


Volunteers are the powerhouse behind the Dayton Emerging Fashion  Incubator  (DE-FI) LLC and its subsidiaries Dayton Design Week and  Dayton Fashion  Week who often take on a variety of roles to support the  event.  


We are looking for hardworking, dedicated and enthusiastic individuals willing to work in a team environment during Dayton Fashion Week! This week long series of events will be one of the largest multi-day productions in the Midwest. If you have a passion for helping out and turning dreams into reality this is a great opportunity for you! 


We are only looking for individuals with the following criteria:

  • Strong work ethic
  • Strong ability to follow directions
  • Must be happy and energetic
  • Must hit goals and deadlines
  • Be on time
  • Self sufficient
  • Self motivated
  • Ability to do a task without being told


You  will be the face of Dayton Fashion Week! We are  looking for people of all backgrounds and interests who are up for the  challenge and devoted to the experience.There are a variety of volunteer shifts available throughout  the week of events. Please read through the volunteer job descriptions  carefully applications will be available September 17th.

  

Volunteers will be required to: 


  • Dress in a fashionable and professional (all black) attire
  • Arrive on time and stay for the full volunteer shift
  • Be willing to assist event staff and guests with any needs

Volunteer Job Descriptions:


Front of the House Ticket Sales-  Are you a Salesman at heart...this might be for you! You will  apply  wristbands, distribute credentials, answer guest  inquiries, work with  Box Office team to organize Will Call and sell  tickets. 


Front of the House Greeter  - Do you Love saying Hello to everyone...this might be for you! You  will greet guests, answer questions, sell drink tickets,  assist vendors  in setup and breakdown, manage and  streamline a pleasant and relaxing  guest experience. 


Usher/Stage Attendant-  Are you great at giving directions or maybe being a tour guide...this  might be for you! You will  greet guests, assist in seating guests,  answer general questions, and work with the Usher team to provide a  seamless and welcoming experience. 


Media/Photography Attendant-  Can you do what it takes to ensure the photographers get *the*  shot...this might be for you! You will check credentials and ensure  media, photographers, and videographers are in their assigned stations


Backstage Attendant - Are you great at organized (but not always glamorous) madness...this  might be for you!  You will help designers and retailers load in and  out, help organize and prepare  garments to designer specifications, and  attend to all applicable  backstage needs. 

Floater  - Are you flexible, quick on your feet, and love everything...this might be for you!

Press Credentials

We welcome all official media outlets, bloggers, and free-lance photographers to apply for Press Credentials for #TheReboot of Dayton Fashion Week! The DEADLINEto apply for credentials is October 31st, 2021. Press passes are limited and are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. 


Advance registration is required. Late submissions that are not from a major media outlet are unlikely to receive credentials; we will be adhering closely to the deadline so please get your application in on time.


To request credentials for an upcoming Dayton Fashion Week events, freelance photographers or members of the press are required to register. If your request is approved, you will be notified via email. Runway show space is limited and unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate all requests. Press passes are issued on the day of event.


By applying you agree and understand the following criteria: You are an official representative of the news/media outlet listed on your application. Photos or videos taken during Dayton Design Week and Dayton Fashion Week are authorized for publication only in the media outlet listed on this application and Dayton Fashion Week must be credited and tagged if shared on social media. 

Dayton Fashion Week must be credited beside ALL images. **All passes may be revoked at any time. We hold all photographers and media guests to be professional and considerate, as are all persons involved in Dayton Fashion Week. 

Copyright © 2018 Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator (DE-FI) LLC - All Rights Reserved.


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