The pursuit of stardom in the fashion world is more fervent than ever, fueled by the rise of platforms like TikTok. The Fashion Group International (FGI) continues its tradition of recognizing emerging talent with its annual “Rising Stars” luncheon, scheduled for May 13th at 583 Park Avenue. This year’s event, the 28th annual, introduces two exciting new categories: Retail Tech and Creative Content, highlighting the evolving landscape of the fashion industry.
This year also marks a significant partnership between FGI and Macy’s, with Macy’s serving as the presenting sponsor for the Rising Star in fashion merchandising award. This award will be granted to a promising junior or senior student enrolled in one of five designated schools within FGI regions. FGI President and CEO Maryanne Grisz emphasized the organization’s commitment to fostering the next generation of fashion leaders through planned mentorship programs, internships, and business education initiatives. The event is further supported by sponsors Hilldun and Macy’s, with Gary Wassner of Hilldun presenting the Hilldun Business Innovation Award to Ann Wehren, CEO of In-Seam, a platform designed to empower luxury fashion connectors like stylists and personal shoppers.
Terry Singh spring 2024. Courtesy of Terry Singh.
A Diverse Array of Rising Stars Finalists
The 2024 Rising Star finalists represent a wide spectrum of talent across various fashion categories. In the Lifestyle, Intimate, and Swimwear category, nominees include Melissa Franchi of Neveah, Amy and Leo Voloshin of Print Fresh, and Lisa Husberg of Loka Haus. The Casualwear category showcases John Paul Thomas of Jacob & John against Maya Wang of Fried Rice and Shwetambari Mody of Shwetambari.
The competitive Ready-to-Wear category features a diverse lineup including Patrick Cupid, Tara Babylon, Ron Dyce, Michael Ward of Thesalting, Manel Garcia Espejo, Veronica De Piante, Bishme Cromartie, Emma Gage of Melke, Monica Magdas Miller of Santicler, Beam Ratchapol Ngaongam of Bulan, and Kai Milla of Fragment.
Kate Barton spring 2024.
Eveningwear finalists include Evan Hirsch, Kate Barton, Rossario George, Cyril Verdavainne of Verdavainne, Sergio Martin Davila Vega of Sergio Davila, and Talya Bendel and Esty Haas of Haas Bridal.
Accessories, Beauty, and Beyond
The Accessories category boasts a strong field with nominees Guillaume Larquemain, Rowell Concepcion of Binata Millinery, Robert Bacon of The Third Jewelry, Jennifer Kofler of Vivian Blooms, Julie Pierre of Paper Shaper by Julie, and Roman Nielavitzky of Lazaro Leather.
In the Beauty Entrepreneur category, finalists include Edwin Borquez Pierrot of Curl Daddy, Sarah Mirsini of Mask Skin Care, Darci Henry of D.L. Henry Enterprises, Grace O’Sullivan of Avoila, and Linda Treska of Pinch of Colour.
Recognizing the Power of Content Creation and Retail Tech
Reflecting the industry’s evolving dynamics, the newly introduced Content Creator category acknowledges the impact of original short-form video and visual content marketing across digital platforms. Contenders for this inaugural award include Charlii Sebunya of Addy Media, Alison Bruhn and Delia Folk of The Style That Binds Us, and Jamie Lewin of Vetted. The Retail Tech category, recognizing innovation in retail distribution and solution-based technologies, features nominees Anat Shakedd of Nexite, George Shaw of Pathr.ai, Chelsie Hall and Sheyda Demooei of ViralMoment, Kimberly Carney of The Wires, and Sonia Khemiri of Beautyque NYC.
Finally, the Fine Jewelry Rising Star competition features Ritika Ravi of Ivar by Ritika Ravi, Melizza Jaune Tanpocco and Maika Rivera Tanpocco of Jaune Pearls, and Jared Atelier and Shy Dayan of Jared Jewelers. The FGI Rising Stars event promises to be a celebration of the brightest emerging talents shaping the future of fashion. From design and merchandising to content creation and technological innovation, these rising stars represent the dynamism and evolution of the industry.
