Buffalo Fashion Week goes beyond traditional runway shows, emphasizing fashion as an art form, according to Evan Leatherbarrow, the organization's marketing manager. He highlights the challenge of conveying a story through each walk, noting the intricate layers involved.
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After graduating from the University at Buffalo last year, Leatherbarrow discovered Buffalo Fashion Week as a way to blend his professional skills with his passion for fashion. He now promotes a platform that allows designers, models, photographers, videographers, and other creatives to showcase their talents.
Celebrating three years of growth, Buffalo Fashion Week serves as a central event that integrates fashion with other artistic disciplines. Previous shows have included performances by dancers and ballet troupes, while this year features Chicago rapper Queen Key.
Many models launched their careers at Buffalo Fashion Week before securing opportunities in other markets, while returning designers often cite the event as pivotal in their development, Leatherbarrow noted. He emphasized the rich talent in Buffalo, stating that the city's designers, models, and behind-the-scenes professionals reflect significant ambition and creativity.
Now entering its fourth year, Buffalo Fashion Week will present “Fashion on The Field III” on October 17, centered on the theme of sports. The event aims to explore how sports impact fashion, looking past traditional athletic wear to highlight styles suitable for spectator events, like the U.S. Open.
Leatherbarrow hopes attendees will be amazed by the caliber of the event, suggesting it rivals major fashion hubs like Paris, London, and New York City. He expressed a commitment to continual improvement, stating, “We’re getting better every single time, and the stakes are rising.”
Alejandro Henry-Jackson is the assistant arts editor and can be reached at [email protected].