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 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

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 & 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

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.