The event also saw a powerful group of women creatives, including Iman, Aurora James, Karen Elson, and Camille Miceli, who have wielded a profound impact in their own unique way. Miceli shared her story of going from interning at Alaïa, where she paid her dues with menial labor, to becoming the creative director of Pucci. There, she promotes a slow fashion approach that maintains the brand’s jubilant persona. Meanwhile, Elson discussed her work as an activist for model rights. She launched her modeling career as a teenager and was subject to negative comments about her appearance. As a result, she quickly experienced the weight of unrealistic beauty standards within the industry. Now, she aims to pass the Fashion Workers Act alongside The Model Alliance to grant models more autonomy and empowerment in their careers.

Later, model Iman sat down for a candid chat with longtime friend and Brother Vellies founder Aurora James. Iman recalled her start in the industry in 1975 and how she often relied on welcoming strangers for guidance, saying she hopes to do the same for newcomers, especially women of color. The pair agreed that one of the most positive changes in recent years is the blossoming of a more inclusive industry where black designers are celebrated.