As I took my front-row seat at the 20th anniversary of Philly Fashion Week (PFW) in February 2025, I couldn’t help but smile. As the lights danced to the DJ’s mix, I paused and gazed at the full house of stylish people filling their seats minutes before the runway show was set to begin.
The vibe was joyful as people from different walks of life made their way to their seats. Some dressed in eye-catching colors and standout patterns, others opted for sleek evening attire.
From the days in the historic courtyard of Philadelphia’s City Hall to the upscale and swanky room of the W Hotel, the growth of the bi-annual event over the past two decades has been impressive.
As a proud Philadelphian, PFW holds a place near and dear to my heart. Since my early days of writing my teen fashion blog Young Hip & Chic, I’ve always made the week of fashion-forward events a priority on my calendar. Held in February and September, each season hosts seven days of runway shows, pop-up shops, and activations to shine the spotlight on local and international designers.
I can fondly remember picking out my outfits (with the help of my momager) weeks ahead of the shows just to be sure that I was photo-ready as I sat front-row and networked with fellow fashion enthusiasts. (Fun Fact: I was even given the wonderful opportunity to host a runway show in my early days of media. This was when the event was held in the courtyard of City Hall. #IYKYK)
Ahead, learn why I love PFW and why you should consider attending the bi-annual event that’s become a part of Philadelphia culture!
✨ I Admire The Steady Growth Of Philly Fashion Week
Philly Fashion Week has solidified its space in the fashion world— even securing the seal of approval from Fern Mallis, the award-winning creator of New York Fashion Week.
I am proud to say that I’ve personally witnessed the growth of Philly Fashion Week, which was founded in 2006 by my near and dear friends Kevin Parker and Kerry Scott, who launched Maison in downtown Philadelphia. Although it wasn’t an easy road, the dynamic duo has successfully created a space to shine the spotlight on up-and-coming designers and emerging talent who are often underserved and overlooked.
✨ Philly’s Unique Talent Has A Platform To Shine
Philly is known for its unique style! I may be biased, but my city is a Mecca of badass talent and we cannot wait to celebrate those born and raised in the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection.
Sitting front row at Philly Fashion Week each year, I’ve witnessed firsthand the city’s thriving fashion scene as hundreds of designers from the tri-state area wowed the crowds with their unique designs.
✨ I Love To See The Diversity On The Runway
At BrownStyle Magazine, we are all about diversity. This is a big part of why I support Philly Fashion Week. Not only will you see fashions from different cultures, but you also see a wonderful blend of multicultural models rocking the looks of the season.
✨ Each Year Feels Like A Fashion Reunion
For me, Philly Fashion Week is Philadelphia’s unofficial fashion reunion. I don’t know what it is, but there is something special about having a reason to dress up in your finest threads and reconnecting with those who share your passion for fashion.
Over the years, I’ve been able to mix and mingle with up-and-coming designers, makeup artists, hairstylists, models, and other industry professionals who were set to make their mark on the fashion and beauty industry and succeeded. Think Angela Edmunds Blue, Rodney Jon, Kia Sterling, and many more.
✨ I Enjoy The Live Entertainment
Anyone who knows me, knows I enjoy live entertainment! Besides admiring the fashions, I find joy in seeing up-and-coming singers, rappers, and dancers showcase their talent on the runway. Watching the crowd bounce off the energy of the entertainers is beyond incredible. It just adds to the overall fun energy of the shows!
With 5,000+ attendees over the years, there’s no question Philly Fashion Week needs to be on your radar. To learn more about PFW, visit phillyfashionweek.org.
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
By BrownStyle Magazine in Special Editions
72 pages, published 1/17/2025
