Vogue

Most people think about the future in abstract terms—with solutions to our society’s plaguing issues like systemic inequity and climate justice too far out of reach. Fashion designers, models, and actors aren’t in charge of saving the world, but at the Vogue Forces of Fashion summit, that’s exactly what they used their platforms to do.

Marking a triumphant in-person return, Forces of Fashion celebrated the industry’s biggest and brightest names (both old and new) working hand-in-hand toward a better world for all. Networking sessions, cocktail hours, and informative panels, all curated by Vogue editors and writers, brought together both bright-eyed fashion students and established circuit veterans at Spring Studios in downtown Manhattan. After Vogue editor in chief Anna Wintour kicked off the event, all eyes were on the impressive lists of panelists.

Household names like Gigi Hadid, Pharrell Williams, and Iman sat in conversation with Vogue editors to discuss new business ventures and the state of the industry. For those more in the fashion know, designers like Christopher John Rodgers, Fendi’s Kim Jones, and Daniel Roseberry of Schiaparelli took the stage to reveal where they see their respective brands going during the next few years, paving the way for a bright and artistic future. Other panelists included Aurora James, founder of Brother Veilles and the Fifteen Percent Pledge; land protector and model Quannah Chasinghorse; and designer Stella McCartney.

The space, known best for holding runway shows throughout New York Fashion Week, was transformed into a style oasis. Throughout the venue, whimsical floral arrangements were scattered among mannequins wearing emerging designers like Elena Velez and Black Boy Knits. If Forces of Fashion landed on payday, not to worry, darling: Vogue had a pop-up boutique with in-house merchandise available for purchase (along with a few, select pieces from the magazine’s infamous shoe closet).

Below, see highlights from the Vogue Forces of Fashion event.